Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Sheet Pan Quiche with Mushroom, Gruyere, and Crispy Bacon?
It is a savory brunch dish featuring a flaky puff pastry crust filled with a rich custard of cremini mushrooms, nutty Gruyere cheese, and crispy bacon.
How many servings does this sheet pan quiche recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 8 servings, making it perfect for a family brunch or gathering.
What type of crust is used for this quiche?
The recipe uses a large sheet of puff pastry from a 14-ounce package to create a light and flaky base.
What size baking sheet is required for this recipe?
You will need a 15-inch x 10-inch rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
How should I prepare the puff pastry for the pan?
On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry to 16 inches x 11 inches so it reaches the sides of the pan, then prick it all over with a fork.
Why is it important to prick the puff pastry with a fork?
Pricking the pastry, also known as docking, prevents the crust from bubbling up excessively during the blind baking process.
What is the purpose of blind baking the pastry with weights?
Blind baking with weights or a second baking sheet ensures the bottom stays flat and the crust becomes golden and dry before the wet filling is added.
What is the initial oven temperature for baking the pastry?
The oven should be preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) for the initial pastry baking.
How long should the pastry be blind baked with weights?
Bake the weighted pastry for 8 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment for the next stage.
How long should the pastry bake after the weights are removed?
Bake for an additional 6 to 8 minutes until the pastry is dry and puffed.
What type of bacon is recommended and how much?
The recipe calls for 1/2 pound of bacon, which is roughly 8 thick slices, cut into 1-inch pieces.
How long does it take to cook the bacon until crispy?
It typically takes about 8 minutes of stirring frequently over medium-high heat until the fat has rendered and the bacon is crispy.
Should I discard the bacon fat after cooking?
No, you should reserve 1/4 cup of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet to cook the mushrooms for added flavor.
What kind of mushrooms are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 1/4 pounds of cremini mushrooms, which should be trimmed and sliced.
How should the mushrooms be prepared and cooked?
Sauté the mushrooms in two batches with thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper for about 8 minutes per batch until golden brown.
What seasonings are added to the mushrooms during cooking?
The mushrooms are seasoned with thyme sprigs, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
When should I add the minced garlic to the mixture?
Add the 3 finely chopped garlic cloves after both batches of mushrooms are cooked and returned to the skillet, stirring just to combine.
What constitutes the liquid base of the quiche filling?
The filling base is made by whisking together 6 ounces of softened cream cheese and 2/3 cup of half-and-half.
How do I incorporate the eggs into the filling?
Whisk 6 large eggs into the cream cheese and half-and-half mixture one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated.
What specific cheeses are used in this quiche?
The quiche uses 1 1/2 cups of coarsely grated Gruyere and 1/3 cup of finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Which fresh herbs are suggested for the filling?
You can use 1/2 cup of roughly chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or basil.
What is the final oven temperature for baking the filled quiche?
Reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) before pouring in the egg mixture.
How do I assemble the quiche before the final bake?
Stir the mushroom mixture and crispy bacon into the egg custard, then pour it into the prepared puff pastry shell.
What is the total baking time for the quiche once filled?
Bake the filled quiche for 28 to 32 minutes.
How can I tell when the quiche is finished baking?
The quiche is done when the egg is just set in the center and the top is lightly golden.
Should the quiche be served immediately after baking?
It is best to let it cool slightly before slicing to allow the custard to set properly.
What is the best way to slice and serve this quiche?
Because it is a sheet pan recipe, it is easiest to slice it into square portions for serving.
Can this sheet pan quiche be prepared in advance?
Yes, this dish can be prepared in advance and served either warm or at room temperature.
Can I eat the leftovers the next day?
Absolutely, leftovers can be enjoyed for dinner or as a quick snack the next day.
What makes this recipe a 'crowd-pleaser'?
The combination of buttery pastry, rich Gruyere, and salty bacon appeals to a wide variety of tastes and it is easy to serve to many guests.