Grandma’s Classic Ham Cheese Quiche A Nostalgic Holiday Favorite

Ingredients

For the crust

• 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115 g) cold butter, cubed
• 3–4 tablespoons cold water

Or use 1 ready-made pie crust.

For the filling

• 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère/Cheddar)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, classic quiche flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust

1. Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
2. Add cold butter and rub until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Add cold water gradually and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough and place it into a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish.
6. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

2. Make the filling

1. Spread the diced ham evenly over the crust.
2. Sprinkle the cheeses on top.
3. Whisk eggs, cream, milk, salt, pepper and nutmeg until smooth.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese.
5. Sprinkle with fresh herbs.

3. Bake

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–45 minutes until the center is set and the top is beautifully golden.
• Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Tips for the perfect quiche

• Cook and drain any watery ingredients before adding them.
• Let the quiche rest after baking so the filling becomes creamy and slices neatly.
• It tastes even better the next day and can be served warm or cold.

Serving idea: Pair it with a fresh green salad and a cup of coffee for a cozy brunch just like grandma used to make.