Go Back

Leek and Cheese Quiche

This leek and cheese quiche features a flaky, buttery crust filled with tender, caramelized leeks and sharp, melty cheese. The dish is baked until golden and puffed, with a creamy custard filling that offers a comforting, savory bite with a slightly crisp top. It’s perfect for lazy weekend brunches or a cozy dinner, with a simple yet elegant appeal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: French
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cold butter cut into small pieces
  • 3-4 tbsp ice water add gradually
  • 3 large leeks thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • pinch nutmeg (optional)

Equipment

  • 23cm tart pan with removable bottom
  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet or sauté pan
  • Parchment paper and weights
  • Oven thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Mix the flour and salt in a bowl, then cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Press the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your tart pan. Transfer it carefully, pressing into the edges, and trim the excess. Chill the crust for 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
  3. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes until the edges are starting to turn golden. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for another 10 minutes until fully golden and crisp.
  4. While the crust bakes, melt the butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes. Let them cool slightly.
  5. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, heavy cream, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Stir in the grated cheese until combined.
  6. Spread the cooled leeks evenly over the baked crust. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the leeks, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
  7. Bake the quiche at 180°C (350°F) for 35-40 minutes, until the filling is puffed, slightly golden, and just set in the center. Check at 35 minutes; if the top is browning too fast, tent with foil.
  8. Remove the quiche from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. The filling will firm up, making slices neater and easier to serve.
  9. Slice the quiche into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature, enjoying the tender leeks and gooey cheese in every bite.