If you are on the hunt for a brunch crowd-pleaser or a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug, the Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish is a playful twist on a classic quiche, replacing the traditional pastry crust with crispy, golden hash browns that add an irresistible texture and flavor. Bursting with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a perfectly seasoned egg custard, every bite is satisfying and delicious. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to for family meals and special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe is delightfully simple, but each component plays a starring role in bringing the flavors and textures to life. From crispy potatoes forming the crust to the creamy, cheesy filling, these essentials work in perfect harmony.
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and squeezed dry: Using frozen hash browns saves time and ensures the perfect crispy crust once baked.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness to the crust and helps it bind together beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and cheese.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 6 large eggs: The foundation of the silky custard filling that sets the quiche.
- ¾ cup whole milk (or half and half for extra creaminess): Creates a tender, creamy texture in the filling.
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 6 slices): Brings smoky, savory depth and satisfying crispness to the filling.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharpness that melts perfectly, adding gooey cheesiness and bold flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle savory boost without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Adds sweetness and complexity to the egg mixture.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Adjust seasoning to your liking to make every bite balanced and delicious.
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions: Introduces a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color.
How to Make Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven up to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to crisping the hash brown crust beautifully before adding the filling, ensuring the perfect base for this quiche.
Step 2: Prepare the Hash Brown Crust
In a large bowl, mix the thawed and well-drained hash browns with melted butter, salt, and pepper until the potatoes are evenly coated. This simple mixture will transform into a golden and crispy crust once baked. Press the hash brown mixture firmly into a well-greased 9-inch pie dish, making sure to push it up the sides to create a solid border.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Slide the pie dish into the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You want the crust’s edges to turn a lovely golden brown and start to crisp up nicely, giving the texture contrast that makes this recipe so fun to eat.
Step 4: Whisk the Egg Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture forms the luscious custard that holds your quiche together and balances the crunchy crust with creamy goodness.
Step 5: Incorporate Bacon, Cheese, and Optional Chives
Gently stir in the cooked, chopped bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and optional chives or green onions. These add-ins bring layers of flavor—from smoky and salty bacon to melty cheese and a light oniony brightness.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Quiche
Pour the egg and bacon mixture into the pre-baked hash brown crust. Return the quiche to the oven and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top is lightly golden, hinting at the creamy filling beneath.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your quiche rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling time helps everything set perfectly, making it easier to slice and giving the flavors a chance to marry beautifully.
How to Serve Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or green onions on top just before serving not only adds a fresh pop of color but also a mild oniony crispness that complements the rich filling wonderfully. If you want an extra zing, a dollop of sour cream or a small drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate each bite.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs superbly with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted cherry tomatoes or steamed asparagus also make fantastic companions, balancing the savory flavors and offering variety on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Serve the quiche wedges on a platter garnished with edible flowers or fresh herbs. For brunch, accompany with a bright fruit salad or fresh berries for a colorful contrast. You can even prepare mini quiches in muffin tins using this same recipe for delightful, individual servings at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your quiche, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, leftover quiche stays fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient and delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to save the Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe for later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire quiche tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil or store individual slices in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes until heated through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep that lovely hash brown texture intact. For an even quicker option, gently reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
FAQs
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just make sure to grate the potatoes finely, squeeze out as much moisture as possible, and pat them dry before making the crust. This will help achieve the same crispy texture as frozen thawed hash browns.
Is it possible to make this quiche vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to keep the filling flavorful and satisfying without meat.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Sharp cheddar gives this quiche its signature tang, but feel free to experiment with other favorites like Gruyere, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
The center should be set and not jiggly when you gently shake the pan. A light golden color on top and a toothpick coming out mostly clean also signal that the quiche is ready.
Can I prepare the quiche in advance for a brunch gathering?
Definitely! You can assemble the quiche the night before and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh the next morning for effortless hosting and a delicious meal.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe is a joyful way to refresh a classic with a crispy twist that everyone will adore. Whether for a weekend brunch, a cozy family dinner, or an impressive dish to bring to a potluck, it’s easy to make and even easier to fall in love with. Give it a try soon—you’ll find it hard to go back to ordinary quiches once you’ve had this one on your plate!
Print
Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche features a crispy shredded hash brown crust filled with a creamy mixture of eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon. It’s a delicious, hearty brunch dish that combines savory flavors and a satisfying texture with an easy-to-make hash brown base that eliminates the need for traditional pie dough.
Ingredients
Hash Brown Crust
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and squeezed dry
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Quiche Filling
- 6 large eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk (or half and half for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 6 slices)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking both the crust and the filling.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the thawed and squeezed dry hash browns with melted butter, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to evenly coat the potatoes.
- Form the Crust: Press the hash brown mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch pie dish, making sure to press the mixture up the sides to create an even crust.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pie dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and start to crisp up, forming a stable base for the quiche.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Add Bacon and Cheese: Stir the cooked, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and optional chopped chives or green onions into the egg mixture to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Assemble the Quiche: Pour the egg, bacon, and cheese filling into the pre-baked hash brown crust, ensuring it is evenly spread out.
- Bake the Quiche: Return the assembled quiche to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow it to set up for easier slicing.
- Serving Suggestion: Slice and serve the quiche warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Press the hash brown mixture firmly to ensure the crust holds together well.
- For a richer quiche, substitute whole milk with half and half or heavy cream.
- You can substitute cooked bacon with ham or sausage for variation.
- Make sure to squeeze excess moisture from hash browns to avoid a soggy crust.
- Optional chives or green onions add a fresh flavor but can be omitted.
- Letting the quiche cool slightly before cutting helps maintain clean slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
