Easy French Quiche Lorraine Recipe: Classic Savory Pie
Introduction
Quiche Lorraine is one of the most iconic dishes in French cuisine. Originating from the Lorraine region of northeastern France, this savory pie has made its way into kitchens around the world thanks to its rich, creamy texture and irresistible flavor.
Made with simple, accessible ingredients like eggs, cream, cheese, and smoky bacon, Quiche Lorraine is surprisingly easy to prepare—even for beginners. Whether you’re planning a brunch with friends, a quick weeknight dinner, or looking to impress at a potluck, this classic French quiche will always be a crowd-pleaser.
In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making an authentic Quiche Lorraine, tips to customize it to your taste, and storage suggestions so you can enjoy this elegant dish anytime.
What is Quiche Lorraine?
Quiche Lorraine is a type of quiche—a savory custard pie typically baked in a buttery pastry crust. While modern variations include vegetables and various cheeses, the traditional Quiche Lorraine contains:
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A flaky pastry crust
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Smoked bacon (lardons)
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A creamy custard made of eggs and heavy cream
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Nutty, melted cheese (often Gruyère or Emmental)
The result? A rich, golden, melt-in-your-mouth pie that balances creamy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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✅ Authentic French flavor with ingredients you can find anywhere
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✅ Perfect for any meal—breakfast, lunch, or dinner
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✅ Customizable with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or vegetables
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✅ Great for meal prep—make ahead and enjoy all week
Ingredients for Traditional Quiche Lorraine
Here’s everything you need to make this easy French Quiche Lorraine from scratch:
🥧 For the Crust (Pâte Brisée):
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1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
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½ tsp salt
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½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
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3–4 tbsp ice water
🧀 For the Filling:
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6 oz (170g) smoked bacon or pancetta, diced
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4 large eggs
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1 ¼ cups (300ml) heavy cream
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¾ cup (75g) grated Gruyère or Emmental cheese
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¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Shortcut Option: Use a store-bought pie crust to save time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔪 Step 1: Prepare the Dough
If you're using a homemade crust:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
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Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together.
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Form into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Tip: Cold dough = flakier crust!
🥓 Step 2: Cook the Bacon
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon or pancetta until golden and crispy.
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Drain on a paper towel to remove excess grease.
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Let it cool slightly before adding to the filling.
🍳 Step 3: Make the Custard
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream until smooth.
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Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
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Stir in the grated cheese and cooked bacon.
Tip: Don’t oversalt—bacon and cheese are naturally salty.
🥧 Step 4: Assemble the Quiche
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Roll out your chilled dough to fit a 9-inch (23cm) tart or pie pan.
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Gently press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.
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Prick the bottom with a fork.
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Pre-bake (blind bake) the crust at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes with pie weights to prevent soggy bottoms.
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Remove weights and bake for another 5 minutes.
🔥 Step 5: Bake the Quiche
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Pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked crust.
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Smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
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Let cool for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Tip: The center should jiggle slightly—don’t overbake or it’ll turn rubbery.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm, at room temperature, or cold—it’s delicious either way.
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Pair with:
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A light green salad with vinaigrette
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A glass of dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
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Fresh fruit or berries for a brunch spread
Storage and Reheating Tips
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Refrigerate: Store leftover quiche in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Microwave can work, but crust may lose crispness.
Common Questions (FAQ)
❓ Can I make Quiche Lorraine ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it the day before and reheat before serving, or serve it cold.
❓ What if I don’t have Gruyère cheese?
Emmental, Swiss cheese, or sharp cheddar are great substitutes.
❓ Can I make it crustless?
Yes, just pour the filling into a greased pie dish and bake. It becomes a keto-friendly frittata-style dish.
❓ Is Quiche Lorraine keto or low-carb?
Traditional quiche is not keto due to the crust, but a crustless version can be adapted for low-carb diets.
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Conclusion
Quiche Lorraine is more than just a savory pie—it’s a celebration of French simplicity, comfort, and flavor. With its buttery crust, smoky bacon, and silky custard, it’s a dish that’s equally impressive and approachable.
By following this easy recipe, you can bring a slice of France to your table—whether you’re cooking for guests or simply treating yourself.