Indulge in the ultimate brunch experience with our Butternut Squash Chard Bacon Quiche! This delightful dish combines the earthy sweetness of butternut squash, the vibrant freshness of chard, and the savory crunch of crispy bacon, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this quiche is not just a meal—it's a celebration of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your brunch game? Dive into our recipe and discover the secrets to creating this mouthwatering masterpiece!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Brunch
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup butternut squash, diced
- 1 cup chard, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9-inch pie dish by lightly greasing it or placing the pre-made pie crust into the dish.
- Dice the butternut squash into small, uniform cubes (approximately 1/2 inch). Chop the chard leaves into bite-sized pieces, removing any tough stems.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Remove bacon, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces once cooled.
- In the same skillet with bacon drippings, sauté the butternut squash cubes for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and develop slight caramelization.
- Add the chopped chard to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chard wilts and becomes tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Spread the crumbled bacon, sautéed butternut squash, and chard evenly across the bottom of the pie crust.
- If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the vegetable and bacon mixture.
- Carefully pour the egg and cream mixture over the ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
- Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the quiche to set and makes cutting easier.
- Slice into 8 wedges and serve warm or at room temperature. Can be garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: For the best flavor, select a firm butternut squash that feels heavy for its size. This will ensure a sweeter, more robust taste in your quiche.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the butternut squash and chard filling a day in advance. Just sauté and store it in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the quiche.
- Bacon Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms can be great substitutes for traditional bacon, while still adding a delicious depth of flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! Feta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar can add unique flavors that complement the sweetness of the squash.
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow the quiche to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes for cleaner slices.
- Serve with Style: Garnish your quiche with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor. Pair with a light salad for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 145mg
