As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling bacon wafted through the air, instantly transforming my morning mood. There’s something magical about a quiche, especially when it boasts a crispy hash brown crust, like in this Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche. Not only is this dish gluten-free and low-carb, making it a guilt-free indulgence, but it also boasts a delightful blend of creamy egg filling, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a leisurely brunch with friends or craving a satisfying family breakfast, this easy-to-make quiche is bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Ready to elevate your brunch game? Let’s dive in!

Why is this quiche a must-try?

Deliciously Unique: A crispy hash brown crust forms the perfect base, adding unexpected flavor and crunch to your brunch.

Easy to Make: Just a few steps and everyday ingredients transform into a gourmet meal that’s friend-approved.

Versatile Options: Customize your filling with vegetables or different cheeses, making it ideal for any palate.

Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy a guilt-free feast without sacrificing flavor—perfect for those on special diets.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether at a family gathering or brunch party, this quiche is guaranteed to impress, just like my Lemon Raspberry Cookies!

Leftover Magic: Store easily and enjoy throughout the week, ensuring delicious breakfasts are just a quick reheat away.

Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Ingredients

For the Hash Brown Crust

  • Frozen Hash Browns – Ensure they are thawed and drained for a crispy crust.
  • Butter – Enhances flavor and assists in browning the crust.
  • Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor to the hash brown crust.
  • Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
  • Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth to the crust.

For the Filling

  • Bacon – Source of protein and brings a smoky flavor; cooked and crumbled.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts well, providing creaminess and richness.
  • Large Eggs – The main binding agent; contributes to the quiche’s creamy texture.
  • Milk or Half-and-Half – Adds creaminess to the filling.
  • Green Onions (optional) – For freshness and additional flavor; can be omitted if desired.
  • Salt (for filling) – To season the egg mixture.
  • Black Pepper (for filling) – For seasoned flavor enhancement.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

Step 1: Prepare the Hash Brown Crust
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a greased pie pan, combine thawed and drained frozen hash browns with melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands or a spatula, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Freeze the crust for 15 minutes to help retain its shape, then bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the hash brown crust is baking, whisk together the large eggs in a separate bowl until they are light and frothy. Gradually pour in the milk or half-and-half, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and optional green onions to the egg mixture, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Once the crust is out of the oven and slightly cooled, carefully pour the egg and filling mixture into the crispy hash brown crust. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and return the quiche to the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Let It Rest
After baking, remove the quiche from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy your delicious Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche without any messy spillage.

What to Serve with Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

A delicious brunch isn’t complete without the right accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

  • Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, it complements the savory quiche and adds a pop of color to your table.
    Fruits like berries and melons provide a vibrant contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the quiche beautifully.

  • Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the quiche’s richness, enhancing your meal’s freshness.
    Serve it with seasonal veggies for an extra crunch that your guests will adore!

  • Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup pairs perfectly with the quiche for a comforting, cozy meal.
    The acidity from the tomatoes brightens the flavors of the dish, creating a delightful harmony.

  • Sparkling Mimosas: Celebrate your brunch with mimosas! Their fruity and effervescent flavors create a festive atmosphere.
    This bubbly drink will make your gathering feel even more special and vibrant.

  • Crusty Artisan Bread: Slices of warm, crusty bread with a smear of butter are perfect for soaking up the creamy filling.
    It adds a rustic touch that complements the overall meal without overpowering the quiche.

  • Herbed Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs provide a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the quiche.
    Their texture adds variety to your plate while enhancing the cozy brunch vibe.

Expert Tips for Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

  • Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Remember, great taste starts with what you choose to put in the dish.

  • Crispier Crust: For a crispier hash brown crust, remove the springform pan sides in the last 10 minutes of baking. This allows airflow for perfect browning.

  • Right Technique: Be careful not to overmix your egg mixture; whisk until just combined. This prevents a dense texture, giving you a fluffy quiche.

  • Cool Down Time: Let the quiche rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow it to set. This step minimizes filling spillage and enhances slicing.

  • Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For optimal taste, reheat in the oven, maintaining the crispiness of the crust.

How to Store and Freeze Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the quiche fresh, maintaining flavor and texture for quick breakfasts.

Freezer: If freezing, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. This method prevents freezer burn and preserves taste.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This helps restore the crispiness of the hash brown crust while warming the filling deliciously.

Make Ahead: Consider preparing and storing the unbaked quiche in the fridge for 1-2 days prior to baking. It’s a fantastic time-saver for busy mornings, allowing you to enjoy your Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche even on the go!

Make Ahead Options

These Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche are perfect for meal prep lovers looking to streamline their mornings! You can prepare the hash brown crust up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and refrigerating it once baked. Keep it covered to maintain crispiness. Additionally, you can whisk the egg mixture (eggs, milk, cheese, and bacon) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the filling into the crust and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until set. This way, you’ll have a delicious brunch dish with minimal effort, ready to impress!

Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this quiche your own with these exciting twists!

  • Vegetarian Delight: Substitute bacon with cooked spinach or mushrooms for a wholesome veggie option. This swap not only lightens up the dish but adds earthy layers of flavor, appealing to plant-lovers.

  • Cheesy Bliss: Experiment with different types of cheese like Gruyere or feta for a unique taste adventure. Each cheese brings its own character, so don’t hesitate to mix and match!

  • Fresh and Colorful: Incorporate diced bell peppers or tomatoes into the filling for added freshness and vibrant color. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also boost the nutritional content, making your quiche even more delightful.

  • Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the egg mixture for a fragrant twist. The aromatic notes from the herbs will elevate the taste, bringing garden-fresh vibrancy to every bite.

  • Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. These fiery ingredients will awaken your taste buds and give your quiche an exciting punch.

  • Savory Breakfast Swap: Swap bacon for cooked sausage for another delicious meat option. The savory flavor of sausage creates a hearty breakfast experience that’s bound to satisfy any craving.

  • Low-Carb Upgrade: Replace hash browns with finely grated zucchini for a lower-carb crust option. This twist maintains the quiche’s crust-like texture while embracing a lighter profile.

  • Sweet Pepper Blend: Add roasted red peppers for a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Their caramelized notes introduce a lovely balance to the savory aspects of the dish.

For more delightful brunch inspiration, consider trying these delicious Lemon Raspberry Cookies as a delightful dessert to accompany your main dish!

Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe FAQs

What type of hash browns should I use for the crust?
For the best results, I recommend using frozen hash browns that are fully thawed and drained. This ensures your crust will come out crispy. Look for ones without added ingredients for a cleaner flavor.

How should I store leftover quiche?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the quiche fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy crust.

Can I freeze the quiche?
Yes, indeed! If you’d like to freeze your quiche, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This method allows you to enjoy your quiche for up to 2 months without losing quality. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

What if my quiche filling doesn’t set?
If you find that your quiche filling isn’t setting properly, it may need more baking time. Ensure you’ve baked it until the center is firm and a knife inserted comes out clean. Sometimes, overloaded fillings can also prevent setting. Make sure to follow the recommended egg-to-other-ingredients ratio for a better result.

Is this quiche safe for someone with gluten allergies?
Yes, this Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is gluten-free if you use gluten-free hash browns. However, always double-check the ingredients of your hash browns and any other packaged items to guarantee their safety for gluten-sensitive individuals.

How can I customize the filling for dietary preferences?
The beauty of this quiche is its versatility! You can easily customize the filling by substituting bacon with sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or Gruyere, and don’t hesitate to add colorful veggies like bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

Crispy Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe

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Enjoy this Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche, a gluten-free and low-carb breakfast delight with crispy texture and rich flavors.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

For the Hash Brown Crust
  • 1 package Frozen Hash Browns Ensure they are thawed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons Butter
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Filling
  • 6 slices Bacon Cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • 6 large Eggs
  • 1/2 cup Milk or Half-and-Half
  • 1/4 cup Green Onions Optional
  • 1 teaspoon Salt For filling
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper For filling

Equipment

  • Pie pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • whisk

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Hash Brown Crust
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a greased pie pan, combine thawed and drained frozen hash browns with melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Freeze the crust for 15 minutes to help retain its shape, then bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
    Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
  1. While the hash brown crust is baking, whisk together the large eggs in a separate bowl until light and frothy. Gradually pour in the milk or half-and-half, stirring continuously until smooth. Add the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and optional green onions, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
    Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
  1. Once the crust is out of the oven and slightly cooled, carefully pour the egg and filling mixture into the crispy hash brown crust. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
    Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche
Step 4: Let It Rest
  1. Remove the quiche from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve.
    Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

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