Delicious Ham Cheese Quiche (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Pie Crust

01 - 1 round store-bought pie crust (suitable for a 23 cm pie plate), thawed if frozen

→ Filling

02 - 4 large eggs
03 - 240 ml whole milk
04 - 120 g diced ham (smoked or honey-baked for enhanced flavour)
05 - 110 g freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
06 - 2 g fine sea salt
07 - 1 g freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional Additions

08 - 50 g baby spinach, chopped
09 - 50 g diced red bell pepper

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Unroll the pie crust and gently press it into a 23 cm pie plate, ensuring it fits snugly without stretching. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
02 - Vigorously whisk eggs and whole milk in a medium bowl until fully combined and slightly frothy. Add salt and pepper, adjusting seasoning to taste.
03 - Fold diced ham and grated cheddar cheese into the custard mixture until evenly distributed. Stir in optional spinach or bell pepper, taking care not to bruise delicate vegetables.
04 - Pour the prepared filling into the chilled pie crust. Smooth the surface with a spatula to ensure even distribution of fillings.
05 - Place on the middle rack of a preheated oven at 190°C and bake for 35–40 minutes. The surface should be golden brown and the centre set; a knife inserted near the centre should emerge clean.
06 - Allow the quiche to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for clean, neat slices.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Blind-bake the crust for 8 minutes at 190°C if you prefer an extra-crispy pastry base.
02 - Freshly grated cheese provides superior melt and flavour compared to pre-grated types.
03 - Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. For reheating, use a low oven so the crust remains crisp.