A bacon and cheese crustless quiche is one of those dishes that proves you don’t need a crust to enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic quiche. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this dish combines smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and fluffy eggs into a savory baked casserole that’s both filling and simple to prepare. Unlike traditional quiche, there’s no fussing with pastry dough, which makes it a time-saver for busy mornings or meal prep. It’s naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and endlessly versatile—you can keep it classic with bacon and cheese or get creative with add-ins like vegetables and herbs.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 8 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for a creamier texture)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)

• 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped

• ½ medium onion, finely chopped (optional, but adds flavor)

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp butter (for sautéing onion/garlic if using)

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel to drain, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional): If you’re using onion and garlic, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the same skillet and sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.

3. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche dish with butter or cooking spray.

4. Whisk the Eggs and Milk: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk (or half-and-half) until smooth and slightly frothy. Season with salt and black pepper.

5. Assemble the Quiche: Spread the cooked bacon, sautéed onion, and garlic evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Pour the egg mixture evenly across, making sure it covers the fillings.

6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the quiche is puffed, golden on top, and set in the center. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.

7. Cool and Serve: Let the quiche cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh finish. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrients

• Calories: ~280 per serving

• Protein: 18 g

• Carbohydrates: 2 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Fiber: 0 g

• Calcium: 180 mg

• Iron: 1.5 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crustless quiche is love at first bite for so many reasons. First, it’s effortless—you can make it with just a few pantry staples. Second, it’s flexible. Serve it for brunch with friends, make-ahead for busy mornings, or enjoy it as a light dinner with a side salad. Third, it’s rich and satisfying, thanks to the smoky bacon and melted cheese, but it doesn’t weigh you down with a buttery crust. It also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Traditional quiche comes from French cuisine, where pastry crusts are filled with eggs, cream, cheese, and other ingredients. However, the crustless version is more of a modern adaptation that appeals to today’s health-conscious and busy cooks. The idea is to simplify the recipe while keeping the heart of the dish intact—eggs, creaminess, and flavor-packed add-ins. Bacon and cheese are classic pairings, so it’s no surprise they became the star players in this variation. This dish is inspired by the timeless French classic but with a practical, everyday spin.

Ingredient Spotlight

Eggs are the backbone of this dish, providing structure and a rich, fluffy texture while being packed with protein and nutrients. Bacon brings that salty, smoky punch that balances perfectly with the richness of the eggs. Cheese—whether you use cheddar, mozzarella, or even Swiss—adds creaminess and melty goodness. Milk or half-and-half keeps the quiche tender and moist without being too heavy. Onions and garlic, while optional, bring depth and savoriness that make the quiche even more irresistible.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Quiche is one of those recipes that tastes just as good the next day, if not better. To store, cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in a 160°C (325°F) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave gently in 30-second intervals. You can also freeze this quiche for up to 2 months by wrapping tightly in foil and plastic wrap. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Common Variations to Try

One of the joys of this recipe is its adaptability. Swap the bacon for ham, sausage, or turkey bacon. Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Try different cheeses—Gruyère for a nutty flavor, goat cheese for tanginess, or even blue cheese if you’re feeling bold. For a Mediterranean twist, add sun-dried tomatoes and olives. You can also make mini crustless quiches in muffin tins for portable, grab-and-go breakfasts.

Pairing Recommendations

This quiche pairs well with light, fresh sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber-tomato salad makes an excellent companion. For breakfast or brunch, serve it with fresh fruit and a glass of orange juice or sparkling water. For dinner, pair it with roasted vegetables or a light soup. If you’d like a beverage pairing, coffee works in the morning, while a chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully for dinner.

Health Benefits

While quiche is often seen as indulgent, the crustless version lightens things up considerably. Eggs provide high-quality protein, essential vitamins like B12, and minerals such as selenium and choline. Bacon, though best enjoyed in moderation, contributes protein and flavor, while cheese adds calcium for bone health. Skipping the crust eliminates unnecessary carbs and calories, making this quiche a smart choice for those watching their intake. Adding vegetables to your variation boosts fiber and antioxidants, making it even more nourishing.

Conclusion

Bacon and cheese crustless quiche is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. It’s quick to make, versatile, and perfect for nearly any occasion, from weekday breakfasts to elegant brunch gatherings. The smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and fluffy eggs make it satisfying on its own, but it’s also a great canvas for adding your favorite flavors. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a make-ahead meal, or just an easy dish that pleases everyone, this crustless quiche delivers every time.