Apple Sausage Quiche Recipe for Breakfast

Introduction

Love With Recipes, a trusted platform for culinary inspiration, brings you an exquisite recipe that masterfully blends sweet and savory flavors—Apple Sausage Quiche. This dish is a celebration of contrasts: the crispness and subtle sweetness of fresh apples harmonize with the hearty, savory richness of sausage, all encased within a buttery, flaky pastry crust. Perfectly suited for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner, this quiche elevates any meal with its complex layers of flavor and satisfying textures. Its origins trace back to the French tradition of quiche, with roots in the medieval Lorraine region, but this version adds a modern twist that makes it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.

Beyond its delightful taste, the Apple Sausage Quiche is a culinary canvas that invites creativity. Whether you prefer a classic cheddar or Gruyère cheese, or wish to incorporate herbs and vegetables for added nutrition and flavor, this recipe offers flexibility and customization. From preparation to presentation, crafting this dish allows you to engage in a rewarding cooking process that yields a visually appealing and delicious result—ideal for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a comforting solo meal.

Preparation Time

The entire process from start to finish takes approximately 1 hour. This includes about 20 minutes for preparation and 40 minutes for baking. The detailed steps ensure a seamless cooking experience, allowing you to enjoy the process as much as the final product.

Needed Equipment

• 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish or tart pan
• Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)
• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Whisk or fork (for beating eggs and mixing)
• Skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Peeler (optional, for apples)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper (for blind baking crust)
• Oven mitts and cooling rack

Tags

Breakfast, Brunch, Savory Pie, Easy Dinner, Family-Friendly, Quick & Easy, Comfort Food, Apple Recipes, Sausage Recipes, Vegetarian Option (with modifications), French Cuisine Inspiration

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 slices, making it ideal for serving a small family or a gathering of friends. Each slice offers a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrients, suitable as a main course or a hearty brunch item.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. While the recipe involves multiple steps, including preparing the crust and cooking fillings, it is approachable for home cooks with basic baking and stovetop skills. Attention to detail, especially during blind baking and assembling, ensures a perfect outcome.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

Can be adapted for vegetarian diets by substituting sausage with mushrooms or plant-based protein. Gluten-free options are possible by using a gluten-free crust. For dairy-free, replace cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.

Course

Main Course, Breakfast, Brunch, Light Dinner

Cuisine

French-inspired, Modern American

Ingredients

Pie Crust

Filling

Instructions

Preparing the Pie Crust

Start by making your pie crust from scratch or using a store-bought version for convenience. If opting for homemade, combine the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Do not overwork. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

If using store-bought crust, allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish, about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to the dish, trim excess crust, and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Blind bake for 15 minutes to prevent sogginess, then remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Cooking the Sausage

While the crust pre-bakes, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove excess fat and set aside to cool slightly. If necessary, drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Sautéing the Apples

In the same skillet, add a small amount of butter or oil if needed, then add the thinly sliced apples. Sauté over medium heat until they are tender and lightly caramelized, approximately 5-7 minutes. This step enhances their sweetness and flavor, which balances the savory sausage. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly. Add the milk or cream, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Whisk until fully combined. Incorporate minced onion or garlic if using, and chopped herbs for additional flavor. This custard mixture will provide the creamy binding for the fillings.

Assembling the Quiche

Layer the cooked sausage evenly over the pre-baked crust. Follow with a layer of sautéed apples, spreading them out evenly. Pour the prepared egg custard over the layered ingredients, ensuring it spreads throughout the dish. Sprinkle the cheese evenly on top, pressing it slightly into the custard for consistency.

Place the assembled quiche on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes. The quiche is done when the filling is set and the top is golden brown. To check, gently shake the dish—if the center jiggles slightly but doesn’t slosh, it’s ready.

Cooling and Serving

Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. This resting period helps the filling set further and makes slicing easier. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Slice into wedges and enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet apples, savory sausage, and cheesy custard.

Preparation Tips

• Crust consistency: Keep butter cold to ensure a flaky crust. Avoid overworking the dough to prevent toughness.
• Sausage selection: Use high-quality sausage for maximum flavor. Remove casings if using links for easier crumbling.
• Apple choice: Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp also work well.
• Pre-baking: Blind baking the crust is essential to avoid sogginess, especially when adding moist fillings.
• Custard consistency: Do not overbake; the custard should be slightly jiggly in the center when removed from the oven, as it will continue to set as it cools.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhance flavor: Add freshly chopped herbs like thyme or parsley to the custard for a fresh note.
• Make ahead: Prepare the crust and filling a day in advance; assemble and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Vegetable variations: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or leeks for added nutrients and color.
• Cheese options: Experiment with different cheeses such as fontina, mozzarella, or a smoky Gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Crust alternatives: Use a gluten-free crust for dietary restrictions or a savory crust infused with herbs or cheese.

Add-ons

• Crumbled cooked bacon or pancetta for extra savory depth.
• Caramelized onions layered with apples for richer sweetness.
• Additional herbs such as sage, rosemary, or thyme for aromatic complexity.
• Spicy jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette to balance richness.
• Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus.
• Fresh fruit salad for a light, refreshing complement.
• Whole-grain bread or baguette slices to add crunch and texture.

Improvements and Variations

• Switch out apples for pears or quince for different fruit flavors.
• Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for umami richness.
• Use a savory crust, such as one infused with herbs or grated cheese, for extra flavor.
• Make mini quiches in muffin tins for individual servings or party appetizers.

Save and Store

Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil; reheat directly from frozen in the oven or microwave. To maintain crispness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the crust and filling components in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving. It can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours prior to baking, ensuring freshness.

Can I substitute the sausage with other proteins?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based sausage alternatives. Chicken, ham, or bacon are also excellent options for added variety.

What crust options are suitable for gluten-free diets?

Use a store-bought gluten-free pie crust or make your own with almond flour or gluten-free flour blends. Adjust baking times as needed.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Reduce cheese or opt for lower-fat versions. Incorporate more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Use whole-grain or gluten-free crusts for added fiber.

Conclusion

Apple Sausage Quiche is a culinary gem that exemplifies the art of balancing flavors—sweet, savory, creamy, and crispy—into a harmonious dish that appeals to a wide array of palates. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, from a hearty breakfast to a comforting dinner. The combination of ingredients allows for numerous customization options, ensuring that each preparation can be tailored to personal preferences and dietary needs. Mastering this recipe not only enhances your baking repertoire but also provides a delightful dish that can be enjoyed repeatedly, always offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. For more delicious recipes and culinary tips, visit Love With Recipes, your trusted platform for home cooking inspiration.

References

• Larousse Gastronomique: The International Cookbook, 2009 Edition.
• The Joy of Cooking, 2019 Edition.