Imagine a breakfast masterpiece that combines the smoky richness of sausage, the sharp complexity of gouda, and the sweet surprise of tender apple chunks - all nestled in a perfectly golden, flaky pie crust. This Apple Sausage Smoked Gouda Quiche isn't just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that transforms an ordinary morning into an extraordinary gastronomic experience. Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch or craving a luxurious breakfast that feels like a gourmet restaurant served it directly to your kitchen, this recipe promises to elevate your morning game.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup cooked sausage
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup diced apples
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the middle of the oven.
- Roll out the pie crust and carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges and trimming any excess dough. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent bubbling.
- Pre-bake the pie crust for 10 minutes to create a crisp base. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until fully browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat and set aside to cool.
- Dice the apples into small, uniform cubes, ensuring they are about 1/4 inch in size.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust.
- Add the diced apples over the sausage layer, distributing them evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded smoked gouda cheese over the apples and sausage.
- Slowly pour the egg and cream mixture over the cheese, sausage, and apple layers, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 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 to allow the quiche to set properly.
- Slice into 6 equal portions and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Always pre-bake your pie crust to prevent a soggy bottom - this simple step ensures a crisp, flaky foundation.
- Use room temperature eggs for a smoother, more consistent custard mixture.
- Let your quiche rest after baking to allow the filling to set properly, which prevents crumbling when slicing.
- For extra flavor, consider lightly sautéing your diced apples with a pinch of cinnamon before adding them to the quiche.
- Choose high-quality smoked gouda for a more pronounced and complex flavor profile.
- If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked sausage to speed up the preparation process.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven to maintain the quiche's texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 180mg
