Looking for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing brunch dish? Look no further than this Tortilla Quiche Bake! It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy families. This recipe combines the classic flavors of a quiche with the ease of using tortillas as the crust. It’s a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into a comforting and delicious meal. If you enjoy experimenting with tortillas, you might also like these fish tacos.
Why this Tortilla Quiche Bake is Special
This recipe is a game-changer because it’s so adaptable! You can use whatever veggies, cheese, or meat you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up leftover tortillas and reduce food waste. Plus, it’s super easy for even beginner cooks to master, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution or a fun cooking project to do with the kids.
Ingredients
- 6 large flour tortillas (6-inch diameter) – Corn or gluten-free tortillas can be substituted.
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack or Colby Jack work well too)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- ½ cup chopped cooked bacon or sausage (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes
For the best results, use good quality flour tortillas. Corn tortillas will give a slightly different flavor, and gluten-free tortillas can be used for those with dietary restrictions. Whole milk or 2% milk creates a richer quiche, but you can use skim milk if preferred. Feel free to get creative with the cheese! Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or Colby Jack melt beautifully. If you’re making a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon or sausage. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based milk and your favorite dairy-free cheese shreds. For more dairy-free baking tips, check out this article on using kefir in baking.
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie plate or a similar-sized baking dish
- Large skillet (if pre-cooking fillings)
- Medium mixing bowls (one for eggs, one for veggies)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon (for sautéing vegetables, optional)
Instructions
These step-by-step instructions will guide you through creating a delicious tortilla quiche bake.
Preparing the Tortillas
Softening the tortillas makes them pliable and easier to layer in the baking dish. You can do this a few ways: Microwave each tortilla for about 15-20 seconds, stack them between damp paper towels, or quickly heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat, flipping once, until soft and pliable. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become crispy. This step prevents the tortillas from cracking when you layer them in the baking dish. Looking for other ways to use tortillas? Check out these delicious cornbread recipes.
Making the Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously for about a minute to incorporate air, which will lead to a fluffier quiche. If using pre-cooked meat like bacon or sausage, crumble it into the egg mixture. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and shredded cheese. Stir everything together until well combined. If you like, you can sauté the onions and peppers in olive oil before adding them to the egg mixture for a deeper flavor.
Assembling and Baking the Tortilla Quiche Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a pie plate. Layer tortillas to form a crust, then pour the egg mixture evenly over them. Sprinkle extra cheese if desired. Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden and set—test with a toothpick; it should come out clean. Let cool before serving. For tips on reheating, check out this article on reheating leftovers safely.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This tortilla quiche bake is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Feel free to experiment with different fillings and flavors to create your perfect quiche. If you’re a fan of quiches and frittatas, you might enjoy exploring different bariatric-friendly recipes which often incorporate similar ingredients.
Vegetarian Tortilla Quiche Bake
For a vibrant vegetarian version, load up on colorful vegetables. Try diced zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers. Add a boost of flavor with crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or a sprinkle of parmesan. Sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of chopped fresh basil would also be delicious additions.
Meat Lovers Tortilla Quiche Bake
Meat lovers rejoice! This quiche is easily customized with your favorite meats. Crumbled bacon or sausage are classic choices. Diced ham, shredded chicken, or even chorizo would add a flavorful punch. Consider adding some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. For those who enjoy smoked meats, explore these smoker recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
This tortilla quiche bake is a satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs well with several sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, complement the richness of the quiche. For a lighter option, serve it with a side of fresh fruit like berries or melon. It’s also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top. For insights into healthy eating habits, consult this resource on healthy eating basics.
FAQ
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making a tortilla quiche bake.
How long do you cook a tortilla quiche for?
Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your quiche. Generally, a tortilla quiche bake needs about 30-40 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The top should be golden brown, and the filling should be set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
What is the difference between a frittata and a quiche?
Both frittatas and quiches are delicious egg-based dishes. The main difference lies in the crust. A quiche typically has a crust made from pastry dough, while a frittata is crustless. Our tortilla quiche bake uses tortillas as a base, giving it a unique twist.
Should crust be prebaked for quiche?
Traditional quiche recipes with pastry crusts often call for pre-baking, also known as blind baking, the crust before adding the filling. However, with our tortilla quiche bake, pre-baking isn’t necessary. We simply soften the tortillas before layering them, which helps them conform to the baking dish and prevents cracking.
Can you cook tortillas in the oven?
Yes, you can cook tortillas in the oven! It’s a great way to make crispy tortilla chips or warm them for tacos. In this tortilla quiche bake recipe, we use the oven to bake the entire dish after assembling the tortillas and the filling. We soften the tortillas slightly beforehand to make them pliable.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Properly storing and reheating your tortilla quiche bake will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Leftover quiche should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. Make sure the quiche has cooled completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming, which can lead to sogginess.
To reheat individual slices, the microwave is your quickest option. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through, being careful not to overheat, which can make the eggs rubbery.
For a more even reheating, use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quiche on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil to prevent the top from browning too much. Reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the quiche’s original texture and prevents it from drying out.
Conclusion
This Tortilla Quiche Bake is a true weeknight hero! It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding the whole family. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy its versatility and deliciousness as much as we do. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the fillings and make it your own. I’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below sharing your favorite variations and how your family enjoyed this simple and satisfying meal.