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
Scale
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
