Flavorful Green Chile Quiche with Sausage and Monterey Jack Cheese: Your Go-To Recipe for Any Meal
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly satisfying Green Chile Quiche. Nestled within a perfectly flakey homemade (or store-bought) pie crust, you’ll find a rich, savory filling crafted from eggs, creamy half & half, expertly spiced ground sausage, tender onions, vibrant green chiles, fresh cilantro, and a generous amount of melt-in-your-mouth Monterey Jack cheese. Baked until golden brown and beautifully set, this quiche is a culinary delight, making it an exceptional choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty dinner. It’s wonderfully warm, incredibly satisfying, and simply irresistible!
There’s something truly special about quiche; it’s hands down my favorite breakfast indulgence. Its versatility means there are countless ways to prepare it, guaranteeing that unless you have an aversion to eggs or a beautifully crisp, homemade pie crust, you’re bound to discover a quiche recipe that captures your heart. The inspiration for this particular Green Chile Quiche struck me a while back, and I’ve been eagerly anticipating the perfect moment to share this incredible recipe with you. It combines classic quiche elements with a delightful Southwestern twist that promises to become a new family favorite.
I rely on a fundamental quiche base recipe that I’ve perfected over time, designed to be effortlessly adaptable to incorporate your most beloved ingredients. Among my most frequently requested quiche creations are the rich and savory Bacon & Swiss Quiche, the deeply flavorful Ham & Smoked Gouda Quiche, and the unique Reuben Quiche. My family absolutely adores it whenever I prepare quiche, especially as a cherished tradition every Christmas morning. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a staple of our holiday celebrations, bringing warmth and joy to our festive gatherings.
This delightful recipe is proudly sponsored by Nebraska’s own Jisa Farmstead Cheese. Rest assured, my deep appreciation for their wholesome cheese and all the opinions expressed here are entirely my own. We only feature products we genuinely love and believe in.
Why Monterey Jack Cheese is Perfect in Your Quiche
When my wonderful partners at Jisa Farmstead Cheese approached me with the exciting opportunity to develop a new recipe for the holiday season, my mind immediately gravitated towards quiche. Christmas morning is a truly magical occasion in our home, and it calls for nothing less than a truly perfect recipe to complement its festive spirit. I knew a special touch was needed, and Jisa’s premium cheese was the answer.
The initial spark for this particular green chile and Monterey Jack cheese quiche recipe actually ignited around Cinco de Mayo. We had just enjoyed a magnificent Mexican-themed feast, and I was contemplating creative ways to utilize some of the delicious leftovers. I found myself with an abundance of ripe tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and another package of that exquisite Jisa Farmstead Monterey Jack cheese, leftover from preparing a batch of our beloved white chicken enchiladas. It was then that the idea clicked: a Southwestern-inspired quiche!
I intuitively combined these ingredients with the quiche base, and what resulted was a sensational dinner that evening, perfectly paired with some leftover margarita fruit salad. One of my children astutely remarked that it reminded them of classic chile Rellenos, and they were absolutely right! The flavors were so evocative, this dish could very well have been named a Chile Rellenos Quiche. Monterey Jack cheese, with its mild, buttery flavor and excellent melting properties, is the ideal choice to bind these vibrant flavors, offering a creamy counterpoint to the subtle kick of the green chiles and the richness of the sausage.
Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Green Chile Quiche with Sausage
Crafting this delicious quiche doesn’t require any exotic or hard-to-find items. It relies on a straightforward selection of wholesome dairy products, aromatic fresh herbs, savory pork sausage, and crisp vegetables. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and comforting texture of this amazing dish.
- Ground Breakfast Sausage: Opt for a good quality pork breakfast sausage, which brings a fantastic savory depth and a hint of spice. You can choose mild or hot varieties based on your preference for heat. It adds significant flavor and substance to the quiche.
- Onion: Both yellow and green onions contribute distinct flavors. Minced yellow onion provides a sweet, aromatic base when cooked with the sausage, while sliced green onions can be used for a fresh, mild bite and garnish.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Adjust to your taste, keeping in mind the saltiness of your sausage.
- Red Pepper Flakes: This recipe is designed to be on the milder side, offering a gentle warmth. If you desire a more pronounced spicy kick, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your palate.
- Diced Green Chiles: Make sure to drain these thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making your quiche soggy. They are the heart of the “green chile” flavor, offering a mild, earthy, and slightly tangy note that defines the Southwestern character of the dish.
- Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour is sprinkled into the crust to help absorb any excess moisture from the filling ingredients, preventing a soggy bottom crust and ensuring a firm, well-set quiche.
- Eggs: The foundational element of any quiche, providing its creamy, custardy texture. Use large eggs for the best results.
- Half & Half: This dairy product adds a luxurious richness to the egg custard, making it incredibly smooth and decadent. Heavy cream can be used for an even richer texture, or milk for a lighter version.
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro is non-negotiable for this recipe! It introduces a burst of bright, herbaceous, and distinctly Southwestern flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
- Jisa Farmstead Monterey Jack Cheese: This is our star cheese! Shredded Monterey Jack melts beautifully, providing a creamy, mild, and slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the green chiles and sausage. Using a high-quality cheese like Jisa’s makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Pie Crust: Whether you opt for your own tried-and-true homemade pie crust, which adds an extra layer of love and flakiness, or a convenient store-purchased one, ensure it’s a deep-dish variety to hold all that delicious filling.
The precise measurements for each of these ingredients can be found in the comprehensive, printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.
How to Masterfully Prepare Green Chile Quiche with Sausage
Creating this delightful green chile quiche is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect outcome every time.
Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to a robust 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). This initial high heat helps to set the crust and begin the baking process effectively.
STEP ONE: Prepare the Savory Sausage Filling. In a sturdy skillet, preferably cast iron, heat it over medium-high heat. Add your ground pork breakfast sausage along with the minced onion, salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook thoroughly, breaking up the sausage with a spoon as it browns, until it’s nicely cooked through and the onions are softened and translucent. The spices will infuse the sausage, creating a rich flavor base.
Just as the meat finishes cooking, incorporate the drained diced green chilies into the skillet, stirring them in briefly to warm through and combine their flavor with the sausage. Immediately remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the entire mixture onto a plate generously lined with paper towels to effectively drain any excess grease. This crucial step prevents the quiche from becoming oily and ensures a superior texture.
STEP TWO: Craft the Silky Egg Mixture. In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs and half & half until they are thoroughly combined and slightly frothy. This creates the creamy custard base that gives quiche its signature texture. Ensure there are no streaks of egg white remaining for a uniform custard.
Gently fold in the freshly chopped cilantro, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the egg mixture. This adds a vibrant burst of freshness and aroma.
STEP THREE: Assemble and Fill the Pie Crust. Carefully line a deep-dish pie plate with your chosen pie crust. Whether you’re using your own homemade masterpiece or a convenient store-bought option, ensure it fits snugly. Sprinkle the flour evenly across the bottom of the pie crust; this acts as a barrier against sogginess. Next, spread the drained meat mixture into an even layer over the flour at the bottom of the crust. This layering ensures every slice gets a good distribution of ingredients.
A quick note on crust preparation: While I typically don’t blind bake my pie crusts when making quiche, you are absolutely welcome to do so if you prefer a crispier, more defined bottom crust. Blind baking can be particularly helpful with wetter fillings.
Generously sprinkle the shredded Jisa Farmstead Monterey Jack cheese over the meat layer. Finally, carefully pour the prepared egg and half & half mixture evenly over the top, ensuring it reaches all corners of the crust and lightly covers the cheese and sausage. The quiche is now ready for the oven!
STEP FOUR: The Perfect Bake. Place the assembled quiche into your preheated 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) oven. Bake for an initial 15 minutes at this higher temperature. After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This two-stage baking process ensures a beautifully cooked crust and a perfectly set, creamy custard without over-browning the top too quickly. The quiche is done when the center is set (a slight jiggle is okay, but it shouldn’t be liquid) and the top is a lovely golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
STEP FIVE: Rest and Serve. Patience is a virtue when it comes to quiche! It is absolutely essential to allow your freshly baked quiche to rest for a minimum of 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven before attempting to slice it. This resting period allows the custard to fully set, ensuring clean, elegant slices that hold their shape beautifully. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, consider garnishing your quiche with thinly sliced tomatoes, vibrant green onion, and a sprinkle of additional fresh cilantro just before serving. Enjoy this warm, flavorful masterpiece!
Any delicious leftovers can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
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Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Quiche
Quiche is wonderfully versatile, making it suitable for any meal. We often enjoy it for a leisurely breakfast, a relaxed brunch, or even as a convenient weeknight dinner. To complement its richness, I particularly love serving a crisp, refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette or a vibrant, seasonal fruit salad on the side. These fresh options provide a lovely contrast to the savory quiche. If you’re aiming for a more substantial meal, a comforting potato casserole or our delicious new potatoes and peas recipe make excellent, hearty side dishes that round out the plate beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quiche Making
HOW LONG DOES A QUICHE NEED TO REST BEFORE CUTTING?
The resting period is crucial for a perfectly set quiche. The exact time can vary slightly depending on factors like the temperature of your cooling rack and the ambient room temperature. Generally, you should allow your quiche to rest for at least 10 to 20 minutes. This allows the hot custard to finish setting up and firm up, ensuring that when you slice into it, you get clean, beautiful pieces without a runny center. If you cut it too soon, the custard may spill out, and the slices won’t hold their shape.
CAN I MAKE THE QUICHE FILLING THE NIGHT BEFORE?
Absolutely, preparing components of your quiche the night before is a fantastic way to save time and make breakfast or brunch preparation a breeze! You can certainly mix the egg and half & half mixture together, ensuring it’s well combined. Line your pie plate with the crust and cover both the egg mixture and the crust separately with plastic wrap, storing them in the refrigerator. Additionally, cook the sausage, onion, and green chiles as directed, drain them thoroughly, and shred the Monterey Jack cheese the day before, keeping them chilled in separate containers in the fridge. This way, all your components are prepped. However, I highly recommend not pouring the egg mixture or layering the fillings into the crust until you are ready to begin baking. When you wake up, take the prepared ingredients out of the fridge to allow them to come closer to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Then, assemble your quiche just before you plan to place it into the preheated oven for the freshest and best results.
CRUSTLESS OR MEATLESS QUICHE VARIATIONS
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to easily customize it to fit various dietary preferences or simply to try something new. If you’re looking to reduce carbohydrate intake, simply omit the pie crust entirely and bake the filling in a well-greased pie plate or individual ramekins for a delicious crustless quiche. For a delightful meatless option, you can certainly leave out the ground breakfast sausage. In its place, consider adding extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes to maintain substance and flavor. Perhaps you’re a bigger fan of other proteins? Feel free to switch out the sausage for finely diced, cooked bacon or savory ham for a completely fresh and exciting take on this versatile quiche recipe. The core green chile and Monterey Jack flavors remain fantastic no matter your chosen modification!
Discover the Excellence of JISA FARMSTEAD CHEESE
Jisa, pronounced Yee-Shaw, Cheese stands as a beacon of quality, proudly crafted right in the heart of Nebraska. Their exceptional cheeses are made exclusively from the pasteurized whole milk produced by their very own Jisa Dairy Farms. A cornerstone of their commitment to natural goodness is that their milk comes from cows that are never treated with rBST, ensuring a pure and natural product. Jisa Farmstead Cheese maintains the most stringent standards for their cheesemaking process, meticulously ensuring a pristine and sanitized environment at every stage. This dedication guarantees not only the safety but also the superior quality and flavor of every block of cheese they produce.
Jisa Farmstead cheese is renowned for using only top-quality, wholesome ingredients, resulting in an entirely all-natural product that you can trust. What truly sets Jisa apart is a specialized feeding program, meticulously developed at Jisa Dairy, which allows their milk and, consequently, their cheese to carry an elevated level of Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3s are widely recognized as a crucial element for maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, offering numerous benefits for heart and brain health. Choosing Jisa cheese means not just enjoying a delicious dairy product, but also making a healthier choice for yourself and your family.
WHAT IS RBST, YOU MAY ASK?
In simple terms, rBST is an acronym for recombinant bovine somatotropin. This is a synthetic growth hormone that is sometimes administered to dairy cows to significantly increase their milk production. While its use is prohibited in many countries, including Canada and the European Union, it is still permitted in the United States. Many farms in the U.S. do utilize rBST, but you can have complete peace of mind knowing that Jisa Farmstead Cheese firmly adheres to a strict policy of never using rBST in their dairy operations. Studies have indicated that rBST poses no known danger to human consumers. However, it has been associated with certain health risks for the animals themselves, making Jisa’s commitment to being rBST-free a testament to their dedication to animal welfare and natural farming practices.
WHERE CAN YOU PURCHASE JISA FARMSTEAD CHEESE?
If you’re fortunate enough to reside here in Nebraska, you’ll likely find Jisa Cheese readily available at your local market or a Hy-Vee Supermarket. However, if a quick trip down the street isn’t an option for you, don’t worry! You can easily purchase their exceptional cheese directly from the official Jisa Farmstead Cheese website. Additionally, their products are available through Buy Nebraska, a fantastic platform supporting local businesses, and even conveniently on Amazon. Be sure to explore these options to get your hands on some of their wholesome, Omega 3-rich cheeses!
And don’t forget to follow Jisa Farmstead Cheese on Facebook for exciting new recipes, timely product updates, and special promotions! It’s a great way to stay connected and inspired.
Discover the Benefits: Why You Should Grate Your Own Cheese
More Delicious Recipes Featuring Jisa Farmstead Cheese
I’ve had an absolute blast creating and sharing an array of delectable recipes that prominently feature the exquisite Jisa Farmstead Cheese! Their diverse range of high-quality, wholesome cheeses truly inspires creativity in the kitchen.
Just last month, I was thrilled to share this incredibly comforting and hearty Cheesy Potato Corn Chowder, which brilliantly showcases the unique flavor of Jisa’s Dill Nuggets. The dill cheese adds an unexpected, yet perfect, tangy and herbaceous dimension to the creamy chowder.
And the month before that, we indulged in these irresistible Italian Cheese Bombs, crafted using their flavorful Tomato Basil Cheese. These little bites are perfect for appetizers or a snack, bursting with savory Italian flavors. I am eagerly looking forward to continuing my partnership with Jisa Farmstead Cheese in the future, and I can’t wait to discover and create all sorts of unique and delicious ways to incorporate their exceptional, wholesome cheeses into even more brand-new recipes for you to enjoy!
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to gather your ingredients and let’s make some amazing Green Chile Quiche with Sausage! You won’t regret it. 
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Print Recipe
Green Chile Quiche with Sausage
Equipment
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KitchenAid Gourmet Rolling Pin, One Size, Red
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Ceramic Pie Dish, 10-Inch
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1/2 cup onion minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 4 ounce can diced green chiles, drained
- 2 Tablespoons flour
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups half & half
- small handful of fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 cup Jisa Farmstead Monterey Jack Cheese shredded
- Pie crust
- sliced green onion tomatoes and additional cilantro for garnishing/serving if desired
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
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Line a deep-dish pie plate with your own or a store-bought pie crust, set aside.
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In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown pork sausage with onion, salt, and red pepper flakes.
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When the meat is almost cooked, add in the green chilies. Remove from heat, placing on a paper towel-lined plate to drain grease.
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In a bowl, whisk together eggs and half & half. Mix in chopped cilantro.
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Sprinkle the flour into the bottom of the pie crust, spread the meat mixture into the bottom, top with shredded cheese.
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Pour the egg mixture over the top. Bake for 15 minutes then reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees F and continue baking for another 30 minutes.
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Let the quiche rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
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Garnish with sliced tomatoes, green onion, and additional cilantro if desired.