Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is a savory, indulgent dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a weeknight dinner. The unique twist here is the crispy hash brown crust, which adds a delicious crunch to the quiche, balancing the rich and creamy filling. Packed with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives, this quiche offers a combination of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche makes for a satisfying and comforting choice. The hash brown crust provides a hearty base that complements the creamy egg filling and smoky bacon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Delicious Hash Brown Crust

The crispy hash brown crust is a game changer, adding a golden crunch that perfectly contrasts with the creamy filling, elevating the texture and flavor of this quiche.

2. Bacon and Cheese Combo

Crispy bacon and sharp cheddar are the stars of this quiche. The salty bacon and melty cheese make every bite irresistibly savory.

3. Easy to Make

Despite its delicious flavors, this quiche is relatively simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make a gourmet dish that’s sure to impress.

4. Versatile

This quiche can be served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

5. Customizable Filling

Feel free to mix and match the filling ingredients to suit your tastes. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or swap the bacon for sausage—this quiche is incredibly adaptable.

Ingredients

For the Hash Brown Crust:

• 20 ounces frozen hash browns (thawed)
• ½ cup white cheddar cheese (shredded)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ onion (thinly sliced)
• 6 large eggs (lightly beaten)
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 4 rashers bacon (crispy cooked and crumbled)
• 1 cup white cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 tablespoon chives (thinly sliced, plus more for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the bacon with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a medley of vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Other Cheeses: Swap out the white cheddar cheese for a different variety, such as sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even goat cheese for a unique twist.
• Add a Little Heat: Spice up the quiche with some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the filling.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Hash Brown Crust

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan and press the hash brown mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

While the crust is baking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk), salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in the cooked onions, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chives. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Quiche

Once the hash brown crust is ready, pour the egg and bacon mixture into the crust, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle a bit more cheese on top, if desired, for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake the Quiche

Place the assembled quiche back into the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and slightly puffed. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, the quiche is done.

Step 6: Let it Cool and Serve

Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with additional chives for a fresh touch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Thaw the Hash Browns: Make sure to thaw the frozen hash browns before using them, as excess moisture can make the crust soggy.
• Press the Crust Firmly: When forming the crust, press the hash browns firmly into the pan to help them stick together and form a solid base.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs mix better and create a smoother filling. Take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before making the quiche.
• Check for Doneness: The quiche should be set in the center but still slightly jiggly when you take it out. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

How to Serve

Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is delicious served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature or cold. It pairs perfectly with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of fruit for a balanced meal. For brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its crispiness, reheat it in a skillet or the oven instead of the microwave.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat leftover quiche, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Yes! This quiche can be assembled and baked ahead of time. Simply refrigerate it once it has cooled and reheat it when ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the cheddar for your favorite cheese, such as Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella.

3. Can I make the crust in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the hash brown crust in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling the quiche.

4. Can I make this quiche without bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon and substitute with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even sausage for a different flavor.

5. Can I make a crustless version of this quiche?

Yes, if you prefer a lower-carb version, you can skip the hash brown crust and make the quiche without it.

6. Can I freeze the quiche?

Yes, quiche can be frozen before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

7. How do I prevent the quiche from getting soggy?

Make sure the hash browns are pressed firmly into the pan, and avoid overfilling with liquid in the egg mixture. If the mixture seems too runny, use less cream.

8. Can I use a store-bought crust?

You can use a store-bought pie crust, but the hash brown crust really elevates this quiche. Try it for the full experience!

9. Can I add other ingredients to the quiche?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

10. How do I know when the quiche is done?

The quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Conclusion

Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines the crispy texture of hash browns with a rich, cheesy filling. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, and with its versatility, you can adapt the recipe to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a meal for yourself, this quiche will undoubtedly become a favorite!

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