There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfect quiche – that silky, custard-like filling nestled in buttery pastry, with just the right balance of cream, eggs, and cheese. When I discovered these miniature versions, I knew I’d found the perfect solution for entertaining. All the elegance of classic Quiche Lorraine, but in bite-sized portions that disappear from the platter almost as quickly as I can make them.

Like so many great French dishes, Quiche Lorraine originated from simple ingredients – eggs, cream, bacon, and cheese – transformed into something sophisticated through careful technique. The traditional version hails from the Lorraine region of France, where local cooks created this savory tart as a way to use up leftover ingredients. What they created was culinary magic.

I love how the individual components shine while creating something greater together. The bacon renders its smoky essence throughout the custard, while the onions – sautéed until sweet and translucent – add depth without overwhelming the delicate egg mixture. The Gruyère cheese brings that nutty, slightly sharp flavor that makes each bite memorable, and just a whisper of nutmeg elevates the entire filling with its warm spice.

The texture is what really sets a great quiche apart. When done right, the custard should be just set – not rubbery or dense, but creamy and light. The secret is in the ratio of eggs to cream, and not overbaking. These mini versions actually have an advantage here; their smaller size means they cook more evenly and quickly, reducing the risk of that dreaded overcooked texture.

I love serving these at brunches alongside fresh fruit and maybe some greens from my garden, but they’re equally at home at cocktail parties or as a light dinner with a simple salad. They can be made ahead and reheated gently, which makes them a host’s dream. Whether you take the time to make your own pastry shells or use store-bought ones, the result is always impressive – little golden cups of French comfort that never fail to please.

Quiche Lorraine Appetizers

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These bite-sized Quiche Lorraine appetizers feature a flaky pastry shell filled with a rich, creamy custard of Gruyère cheese, crispy bacon, and aromatic thyme. Perfect for brunches, parties, or elegant gatherings.

• Author: Don Nicholas
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 24 mini quiches
• Category: Appetizers

Ingredients

• For the Pastry (optional):
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 3-4 tablespoons ice water
• Or:
  • 24 pre-made mini pastry shells
• For the Filling:
  • 4 ounces thick-cut bacon or lardons, diced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry (if making from scratch):

• • Combine the flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
  • Roll into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
  • Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into 2-inch rounds to fit mini tart pans. Chill again before filling.

2. Make the Filling:

• • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • In the same skillet, sauté the onion until soft and translucent. Set aside to cool.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, nutmeg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in the bacon, onion, and Gruyère.

3. Assemble and Bake:

• • Place the pastry shells (homemade or pre-made) on a baking sheet. Fill each shell with the mixture, leaving a little space at the top.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are golden. Let cool slightly before serving.

If you try these Quiche Lorraine Appetizers, let me know what you think!