Time and time again, I always reach to make this recipe!

Quiche is a versatile and heartwarming dish that has charmed its way from the quaint French countryside right to our bustling Midwestern tables. Imagine all the coziness of flaky pastry, the richness of eggs and cheese, paired with the irresistible crunch of bacon. It's the ultimate comfort food that brings a smile to the busiest of weeknights or adds a touch of special to weekend brunches. Making a Bacon and Cheese Quiche might just be the perfect way to gather everyone around the table, share stories, and create memories, all while savoring every delightful bite.

A slice of this quiche is splendid on its own, but why not make it a meal to remember? Serve it with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to add some brightness to the plate. For an even heartier meal, a side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans complements the richness of the quiche beautifully. And don't forget a basket of warm dinner rolls, because in our home, no meal is complete without a little something to sop up all the goodness.

Servings:6-8

Ingredients:

- 1 9-inch pie crust, homemade or store-bought
- 8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), dear heart. It's important to get everything nice and toasty before we start.

2. If you’ve gone the store-bought route, fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. If you've handmade your crust, you're already ahead of the game; just crimp the edges for that handcrafted touch.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook your chopped bacon until it’s as crisp as a fresh autumn morning. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to dab away any excess grease.

4. Sprinkle half of the cheese onto the bottom of the crust, like a layer of warm winter bedding. Add your cooked bacon on top, setting the stage for the real magic.

5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. This mixture holds the promise of a meal that feels like a hug.

6. Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese. It's like the quilt over the layers we've already prepared.

7. Top with the remaining cheese, and sprinkle with parsley if you're using it – it's like the first snowflakes gently resting on a winter's eve.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is a lovely golden brown, like the colors of our prairie sunsets. If desired, garnish with more chopped cooked bacon on top.

9. Let it cool for a few minutes – patience is a virtue, after all. Slice and serve it warm to all those eager faces at your table.

Variations & Tips:

For households with picky eaters or dietary restrictions, quiche is forgiving. You can whisk in some diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. If someone doesn't care for bacon, swap it out for diced ham or leave the meat out altogether and double up on veggies. If lactose is a concern, try lactose-free milk and cheese. And remember, the most important thing you can put into any dish is a heaping spoonful of love – it's the secret ingredient that makes everything taste better.