Delicious South of the Border Quiche: Your Go-To Freezer-Friendly Tex-Mex Meal

Imagine a vibrant, savory quiche bursting with Tex-Mex flavors, ready to be pulled from your freezer on a busy weeknight. This incredible “South of the Border Quiche” recipe is not just a meal; it’s a brilliant meal-prep strategy, yielding two delectable quiches. One can grace your table tonight, while the other awaits in the freezer, promising a quick, flavorful dinner with minimal effort when time is scarce. It’s the ultimate solution for effortless entertaining or simply ensuring a wholesome, satisfying meal is always within reach.

This recipe transforms traditional quiche into an exciting culinary adventure, infusing it with zesty chili powder, earthy cumin, and a generous blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Diced green chilies, savory black olives, and fresh cilantro round out the robust flavor profile, making every slice a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re serving it for a hearty breakfast, a delightful brunch, or a simple yet elegant dinner, this quiche is sure to impress with its rich taste and vibrant ingredients. The convenience of having a second quiche prepped and frozen is a game-changer for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine without compromising on quality or flavor.

Recipe

South of the Border Quiche

5 from 1 vote

This recipe makes two quiches, so one can go in the freezer for a night when you have less time for meal prep.

AuthorAuthor: Mary Ann

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Tex-Mex, Vegetarian

Servings 12 servings

Calories 424

Ingredients

  

• 2 pie crusts, unbaked
• 1-½ teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1-½ cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 8 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 8 ounces can diced green chilies, chopped
• ½ medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro
• 1 cup black olives, sliced and drained
• salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

• salsa
• sour cream

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Instructions

• Place pie crusts in two pie pans. Line crusts with aluminum foil. Bake both pie crusts at 400°F for 5 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes. Add chili powder, cumin, and cheeses to bottom of baked crusts.
• Mix together eggs, milk, chilies, onions, olives, and cilantro in a large mixing bowl. Pour half in each pie crust.
• Place one pie on baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. Add foil to edge of crust as crust starts to brown. Continue to bake until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to set up for about 5 -10 minutes before serving.
• Cover and freeze second quiche for future use. (Label quiche for freezer “South of the Border Quiche. Remove quiche from freezer 30 minutes before baking. Bake at 400°F for 40 minutes. Line edges of crust with foil as crust starts to brown. Continue baking about 30 minutes until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let set for 10 minutes before serving.”)

Notes

Optional ingredients not included in nutritional data.

Nutrition per serving

Calories: 424 calCarbohydrates: 20 gProtein: 17 gFat: 29 gSodium: 750 mgFiber: 1 gSugar: 3 g

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Why You’ll Love This “South of the Border Quiche”

This isn’t just another quiche recipe; it’s a culinary gem designed to make your life easier and your meals more exciting. Here’s why this particular “South of the Border Quiche” will quickly become a favorite in your household:

• Effortless Meal Prep and Freezing: The genius of this recipe lies in its design to produce two quiches. Imagine preparing one for dinner tonight and tucking the second one away in your freezer. This means future busy evenings are instantly transformed into stress-free meal times. Just pull it out, bake, and serve! This bulk cooking approach saves valuable time, reduces food waste, and ensures you always have a delicious, homemade option at hand.
• Bursting with Bold Tex-Mex Flavors: Step away from the ordinary with a flavor profile that truly excites. Chili powder and cumin provide a warm, aromatic base, complemented by the sharp tang of cheddar and the creamy melt of Monterey Jack cheese. Diced green chilies add a subtle heat, while fresh cilantro and sliced black olives introduce layers of fresh and savory notes. It’s a fiesta in every bite!
• Perfect for Any Time of Day: Quiche is renowned for its versatility, and this “South of the Border” version is no exception. Serve it as a hearty breakfast or brunch centerpiece, pair it with a crisp salad for a satisfying lunch, or elevate it to a main course for a cozy weeknight dinner. Its robust flavors make it suitable for any meal occasion.
• Vegetarian-Friendly and Customizable: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it a fantastic option for meatless Mondays or for those following a plant-based diet. However, it’s also incredibly adaptable. Feel free to add cooked crumbled sausage, shredded chicken, or even black beans for an extra protein boost if you desire. The flexibility ensures it can cater to various dietary preferences.
• Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: With a focus on fresh eggs, milk, and flavorful vegetables, this quiche is packed with wholesome goodness. It’s a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet provides essential nutrients, making it a smart choice for family meals.

A Deep Dive into the Ingredients

Each ingredient in our “South of the Border Quiche” plays a crucial role in creating its distinctive and delicious flavor. Let’s explore what makes them so special:

• Pie Crusts: Starting with a good base is essential. Whether you opt for homemade pie crusts or a high-quality store-bought option, ensure they are unbaked to allow for proper blind baking. Blind baking is a key step to prevent a soggy bottom, giving your quiche that desirable crisp crust.
• Chili Powder and Cumin: These two spices are the heart and soul of the “South of the Border” flavor. Chili powder provides a smoky, savory depth with a hint of spice, while cumin adds a warm, earthy aroma that is characteristic of Tex-Mex cuisine. Together, they create a balanced and inviting spice blend.
• Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: The combination of these two cheeses is a textural and flavor masterpiece. Shredded cheddar cheese offers a sharp, tangy flavor and a beautiful golden melt. Monterey Jack, known for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties, contributes to the creamy, gooey texture that makes quiche so appealing. Using both ensures a rich, complex cheese experience.
• Eggs and Milk: These are the foundational elements of any quiche, forming the luscious, custardy filling. Using fresh, large eggs and whole milk (or a blend of milk and cream for extra richness) ensures a perfectly set and incredibly smooth texture. The egg-to-milk ratio is crucial for achieving that ideal quiche consistency – firm enough to slice, yet tender and moist.
• Diced Green Chilies: These provide a mild, zesty kick without overwhelming the palate. They add a subtle layer of complexity and a touch of authentic Southwestern flair. If you prefer more heat, you could opt for hotter varieties or even a pinch of cayenne pepper in the egg mixture.
• Medium Onion (thinly sliced): Sliced onions add a delicate sweetness and a savory aromatic touch that deepens the overall flavor profile of the quiche. Thin slices ensure they cook down perfectly into the custard without being too intrusive.
• Fresh Cilantro: The bright, citrusy notes of fresh cilantro are indispensable in Tex-Mex cooking. It adds a vibrant freshness that beautifully contrasts with the richness of the cheese and eggs, elevating the entire dish.
• Black Olives (sliced and drained): These bring a briny, salty counterpoint to the other ingredients, adding another layer of savory complexity and a pleasing texture. Be sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture in your quiche.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers, these are added to taste to bring out the best in all the ingredients. Always season gradually and taste the egg mixture (before adding raw eggs!) to ensure it’s perfectly balanced.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Quiche Every Time

Creating a flawless quiche is easier than you think, especially with these tried-and-true tips:

• Blind Baking the Crust is Non-Negotiable: The recipe specifically calls for blind baking, and for good reason! This pre-baking step helps to set the crust, preventing it from becoming soggy when the wet filling is added. Line your unbaked pie crusts with aluminum foil and fill with pie weights, dried beans, or rice. This keeps the crust from puffing up or shrinking during the initial bake. After 5 minutes, remove the foil and weights for another 5 minutes to allow the bottom to dry out.
• Preventing a Soggy Bottom: Beyond blind baking, ensure your filling isn’t too wet. Draining any canned ingredients like olives or chilies thoroughly is important. Also, the cheese layer at the bottom acts as a barrier, further protecting the crust.
• Achieving the Golden Brown Top: The initial high temperature of 400°F helps the crust crisp up and the quiche to start setting quickly. If your crust edges begin to brown too quickly, loosely tent them with aluminum foil. This protects the edges while allowing the center to continue cooking and achieve that beautiful golden hue.
• Don’t Overmix the Egg Mixture: Whisk the eggs and milk gently until just combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which can cause the quiche to puff up too high in the oven and then deflate dramatically, leading to a less custardy texture.
• The “Clean Knife” Test: To check for doneness, insert a thin knife or a wooden skewer into the center of the quiche. If it comes out clean, your quiche is perfectly cooked. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry, rubbery texture.
• Resting Time is Key: Just like many baked goods, quiche benefits from a short resting period after coming out of the oven. Allowing it to set for 5-10 minutes helps the custard firm up and makes for cleaner slices. It also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Mastering Freezer Quiche: How to Store and Reheat

One of the best features of this “South of the Border Quiche” is its freezer-friendly nature. Here’s how to properly freeze and reheat your second quiche:

1. Freezing Instructions:
   • Cool Completely: Before freezing, ensure your baked quiche has cooled completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming ice crystals, which can lead to a soggy crust upon reheating.
   • Wrap Thoroughly: Once cool, wrap the entire quiche (still in its pie pan if possible, or transfer to a sturdy freezer-safe plate) tightly with at least two layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-layer protection is crucial to prevent freezer burn and keep moisture out.
   • Label Clearly: Don’t forget to label your frozen quiche with the name “South of the Border Quiche” and the date it was frozen. It’s best to consume within 1-2 months for optimal taste and texture.
2. Reheating from Frozen:
   • Partial Thaw (Optional but Recommended): For best results, remove the quiche from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes while your oven preheats. This helps it bake more evenly. You don’t need to completely thaw it.
   • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Bake with Foil: Place the frozen quiche (still covered in foil, or re-cover loosely with foil) on a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 40 minutes.
   • Check and Brown: After 40 minutes, remove the foil. If the crust edges are browning too quickly, you can cover just the edges with a thin strip of aluminum foil. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. Total baking time can range from 60-70 minutes, depending on your oven.
   • Rest Before Serving: Once baked, let the quiche rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the custard to fully set.

Following these steps ensures your freezer quiche tastes just as delicious as the freshly baked one, providing a convenient and wholesome meal whenever you need it.

Serving Suggestions for Your Tex-Mex Quiche

While this “South of the Border Quiche” is incredibly satisfying on its own, a few simple additions can elevate it further and complete your meal:

• Classic Toppings: As suggested in the recipe, a dollop of fresh salsa and a swirl of cool sour cream are absolute must-haves. They add tang, creaminess, and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the quiche beautifully.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy sliced avocado or a generous scoop of homemade guacamole would enhance the rich Tex-Mex profile and add healthy fats.
• Freshness Factor: Sprinkle with extra chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and extra freshness.
• On the Side:
  • Green Salad: A simple crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing counterpoint to the rich quiche.
  • Fruit Salad: For a brunch setting, a vibrant fruit salad adds sweetness and a lighter element.
  • Black Bean & Corn Salad: A zesty black bean and corn salad would perfectly echo the “South of the Border” theme.
  • Refried Beans or Rice: For a heartier dinner, serve alongside a small portion of refried beans or cilantro-lime rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About South of the Border Quiche

Can I use a different type of pie crust?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for standard pie crusts, you can use gluten-free pie crusts for a gluten-free option, or even a homemade pastry crust if you prefer. Just ensure you follow the blind baking instructions to prevent a soggy bottom, regardless of the crust type.

Can I add meat to this quiche?

Yes, if you’re not strictly vegetarian, this quiche adapts beautifully to meat additions. Cooked and crumbled sausage (chorizo would be fantastic!), shredded chicken, or even cooked and crumbled bacon would be delicious. Add about 1 to 1.5 cups of cooked meat to the cheese layer before pouring in the egg mixture.

How long does the quiche last in the refrigerator?

Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I make this quiche ahead of time for entertaining?

Definitely! This recipe is ideal for make-ahead meals. You can bake both quiches, serve one, and then cool and freeze the second as per the instructions. Alternatively, you can bake both quiches a day in advance, store them covered in the refrigerator, and then gently reheat before serving.

What if I don’t like cilantro or olives?

No problem! Recipes are meant to be customized to your taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely. For olives, you can either leave them out or substitute them with another ingredient like diced bell peppers (sautéed first) or corn kernels for added texture and flavor.

This “South of the Border Quiche” isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor bold flavors and embrace smart meal planning. Its ease of preparation, combined with its delicious and customizable nature, makes it a perfect addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Enjoy the rich, comforting taste and the undeniable convenience of having a gourmet meal ready when you are!

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