A classic British quiche with a rich, savory twist, this Mary Berry Leek and Stilton Quiche Recipe is a true indulgence. The combination of buttery pastry, sweet caramelized leeks, and the bold, creamy tang of Stilton cheese creates a well-balanced dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a centerpiece for brunch or a comforting lunch with a crisp salad, this quiche is bound to impress.
Mary Berry Leek and Stilton quiche recipe is simple yet elegant, making it accessible for home cooks while retaining a gourmet feel. With a crisp, homemade pastry base and a luxuriously creamy filling, this recipe showcases the magic of simple ingredients done right. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, this quiche is a must-try!
Recipe at a Glance
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect before getting started:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
- Dietary Suitability: Vegetarian
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a rich and perfectly balanced quiche, gather these essential ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 200g (1 ⅔ cups) plain flour
- 100g (7 tbsp) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 2-3 tbsp cold water
- A pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 2 medium leeks, trimmed and finely sliced
- 25g (2 tbsp) butter
- 3 large eggs
- 200ml (¾ cup) double cream
- 100g (3.5 oz) Stilton cheese, crumbled
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Substitutes and Optional Ingredients
- Cheese alternatives: If you’re not a fan of Stilton, try swapping it with a milder blue cheese or even a sharp cheddar.
- Cream substitute: Swap double cream for crème fraîche for a slightly tangier taste.
- Pastry shortcut: Use store-bought shortcrust pastry to save time.
Equipment You’ll Need for Leek and Stilton Quiche
Having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rolling pin (for homemade pastry)
- 20cm (8-inch) tart tin
- Baking beans or dried rice (for blind baking)
- Frying pan (to soften the leeks)
- Mixing bowl and whisk
- Sharp knife and chopping board
Mary Berry’s Leek and Stilton Quiche Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Time needed: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and perfectly textured quiche.
- Prepare the Pastry
Combine the flour and cold butter in a bowl, rubbing them together until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and line a 9-inch tart tin, then chill for 20 minutes to prevent shrinkage.
- Blind Bake the Crust
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line the pastry with parchment paper and fill it with baking beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the beans, and bake for another 5 minutes until golden.
- Prepare the Filling
Melt butter in a pan over medium heat and sauté the leeks until soft and slightly caramelized. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, salt, pepper, and mustard powder (if using).
- Assemble the Quiche
Spread the sautéed leeks evenly over the baked crust. Sprinkle crumbled Stilton cheese on top, then pour over the egg mixture.
- Bake and Serve
Reduce oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts & Dietary Info
Each quiche serves 6, and per serving, you can expect the following:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
Calories | ~320 kcal |
Protein | 10g |
Fat | 24g |
Carbs | 18g |
Fiber | 1.5g |
Sugar | 2g |
- Vegetarian-friendly: This quiche contains dairy but is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten consideration: The pastry contains gluten, but a gluten-free flour blend can be used.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- A unique take on quiche: The combination of leeks and Stilton makes this quiche a standout dish with rich, complex flavors.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a brunch, picnic, or light dinner, this quiche fits the bill.
- Easy to prepare: With a simple pastry base and a straightforward filling, even beginners can master this recipe.
Pro Tips for Perfect Leek and Stilton Quiche
- Chill the pastry: Keeping the dough cold before rolling ensures a crisp, flaky crust.
- Slow-cook the leeks: Cooking them gently releases their natural sweetness and prevents burning.
- Let the quiche rest: Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts and better texture.
Fun Variations & Ingredient Swaps
- Add nuts for texture: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts on top before baking adds crunch.
- Try a different cheese: If Stilton is too strong, swap it for feta or Gruyère.
- Make it meaty: Add crispy bacon or ham for a non-vegetarian twist.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Skipping blind baking: If you don’t pre-bake the crust, it may turn soggy from the filling.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the oven—overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Using too much cheese: While tempting, excessive Stilton can overpower the dish.
How to Store & Serve Leek and Stilton Quiche
Storing
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in cling film and freeze for up to 1 month.
Serving
- Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes for a crispy crust.
- Pair with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
Related Recipe: How to make Mary Berry Turkey and Ham Pie Recipe
Mary Berry Leek and Stilton Quiche Recipe FAQs
Can I make this quiche without Stilton?
Yes! If blue cheese isn’t your preference, swap it for cheddar, Gruyère, or goat cheese. Each will bring a different flavor profile while still keeping the quiche delicious.
Can I prepare this quiche in advance?
Absolutely! Bake it the day before and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven before serving to restore the crispy crust.
How do I prevent my quiche from turning out watery?
Ensure the leeks are properly sautéed before adding them to the filling, and don’t skip the blind baking step for the crust.
Conclusion
Mary Berry Leek and Stilton Quiche Recipe is a delightful dish that balances creamy, savory, and bold flavors in every bite. The combination of soft, sweet leeks and tangy Stilton makes it unique, while the flaky pastry brings everything together. Whether you’re making it for brunch, a special gathering, or just a satisfying meal at home, this quiche is sure to impress. Try it once, and you’ll see why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection!