When it comes to dishes that strike the perfect balance between simple and sophisticated, the crustless quiche stands tall. Imagine waking up on a lazy Sunday morning to the smell of smoky bacon and bubbling melted cheese, all nestled in a light, fluffy egg base. Now picture that without the hassle of making a crust. That’s exactly what this bacon and cheese crustless quiche delivers: effortless preparation, crowd-pleasing flavor, and versatility that makes it just as suitable for breakfast as it is for dinner. This dish is proof that sometimes skipping the crust doesn’t mean sacrificing taste—it means saving time while still enjoying all the comforting richness quiche is known for. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weekday breakfast, someone meal-prepping ahead of time, or a host aiming to impress at brunch, this recipe has you covered.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs

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

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss, Gruyère, or a blend)

• 6–8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• ½ small onion, finely chopped (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, then crumble into small pieces.

3. If using onion, sauté it in the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat until softened, about 3 minutes. This adds depth and sweetness to the quiche.

4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth and fully combined.

5. Stir in the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and sautéed onion (if using).

6. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie dish, spreading the filling evenly.

7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.

8. Allow the quiche to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm.

Nutritional Value (per slice, approx. 1 of 6)

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 14 g

• Carbohydrates: 3 g

• Fat: 16 g

• Fiber: 0 g

• Calcium: 18% of daily needs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this recipe, starting with how incredibly simple it is. Traditional quiche recipes require a pastry crust, which can be time-consuming and intimidating if you’re not a baker. This version skips that step, making it approachable for everyone. You still get all the classic quiche flavors—savory, cheesy, smoky, and creamy—without the fuss. It’s also a recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly lighter than you’d expect. Because it’s naturally gluten-free and lower in carbs, it fits into more modern dietary preferences without losing any of its charm. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, which means it’s one of those dishes you can make over and over again without ever getting bored.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Quiche originated in France, particularly in the Lorraine region, where the classic quiche Lorraine combined eggs, cream, bacon, and occasionally cheese baked in a buttery pastry shell. Over the years, quiche spread beyond French borders and became a staple in brunch menus worldwide. But as people sought simpler, faster, and diet-friendly alternatives, the crustless quiche was born. It’s not only easier but also more aligned with today’s lifestyle, where time-saving recipes are treasured. This version pays homage to the French classic while offering a lighter, everyday-friendly twist that works for anyone craving a taste of tradition without the work.

Ingredient Spotlight

The eggs are truly the foundation here. They provide protein, structure, and that soft custardy texture that quiche lovers crave. Bacon, with its salty smokiness, is the star flavor that ties everything together—it’s rich, savory, and deeply satisfying. Cheese is where you can get creative: cheddar is classic, but Swiss or Gruyère will lend a nutty sophistication, while mozzarella gives a mild, stretchy pull. Milk or cream ensures moisture and creaminess, while onions and garlic (if used) add layers of flavor. Fresh parsley or chives at the end brighten the dish, balancing out the richness with a pop of freshness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you love meal prepping, this recipe is going to make your life easier. Once baked, the quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. To reheat, you can pop slices in the microwave for 45 seconds, though the oven is better for maintaining that just-baked texture—10 minutes at 325°F (165°C) should do the trick. For longer storage, this quiche freezes very well. Bake it, cool it completely, and wrap it tightly before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warm. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want something hearty without starting from scratch.

Common Variations to Try

The beauty of this crustless quiche lies in how adaptable it is. If bacon isn’t your favorite, swap it out for ham, sausage, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms to make it even more nutritious and colorful. For cheese, try feta for a tangy twist, pepper jack for some spice, or a combination of several cheeses for richness. You can even make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon and loading up on veggies. Want to make it more filling? Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier bite. The possibilities are endless, which is why this recipe quickly becomes a staple in so many households.

Pairing Recommendations

This quiche is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairings. For a light brunch, serve it with a side of fresh fruit, like melon, berries, or orange slices. If you’re planning a full meal, pair it with a crisp garden salad, roasted asparagus, or even a side of potatoes. For drinks, coffee and tea are obvious choices in the morning, while a glass of fresh orange juice or a mimosa takes brunch up a notch. If you’re serving this for dinner, a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully to cut through the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Health Benefits

One of the biggest perks of a crustless quiche is that it’s lower in carbs than its traditional counterpart. That makes it perfect for those following low-carb or keto-friendly diets. Eggs are a powerhouse ingredient, loaded with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like B12, D, and choline. Bacon, while indulgent, adds flavor in small amounts, so you don’t need much to make the dish satisfying. Cheese provides calcium for bone health, while adding vegetables can boost the fiber and nutrient content significantly. Overall, this dish manages to be both comforting and nutritious, especially when balanced with fresh sides.

Conclusion

This bacon and cheese crustless quiche proves that sometimes simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. It’s easy enough for weekday breakfasts, elegant enough for a weekend brunch, and versatile enough to serve for dinner with a side salad. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and tender, custardy eggs, making it a recipe that everyone at the table will love. Best of all, it skips the crust, saving you time while keeping the dish lighter and more diet-friendly. If you’ve never made a crustless quiche before, this is the perfect place to start. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.