Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche

Looking for a hearty, satisfying breakfast or brunch dish that brings flavor and comfort in every bite? This Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is the answer. Instead of a traditional pastry crust, this recipe uses crispy, golden hash browns to create a delicious, gluten-free base that pairs beautifully with a rich egg custard. Filled with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of onion, this quiche is the kind of dish that’s just as good for a lazy weekend brunch as it is for meal prepping your weekday breakfasts.

The hash brown crust is not only a tasty twist—it’s also incredibly easy to make and a great option if you’re out of pie crust or want a lower-carb alternative. Once baked, the crust becomes wonderfully crisp and holds up perfectly against the creamy filling. Each bite is packed with texture and flavor: crispy potatoes, creamy eggs, melted cheese, and the irresistible savoriness of bacon. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a brunch, or making a dish to take to a potluck, this quiche is always a crowd-pleaser and will disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Gluten-Free Crust Alternative – Uses hash browns instead of traditional pastry for a crispy, satisfying base.
2. Packed with Flavor – Smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy eggs make every bite irresistible.
3. Perfect for Any Meal – Great for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly – Reheats beautifully for meal prep or entertaining.
5. Customizable – Swap or add ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Frozen or freshly grated hash browns
• Cooked bacon
• Cheddar cheese
• Eggs
• Milk or half-and-half
• Onion (optional)
• Butter or oil (for greasing and crisping crust)
• Salt
• Pepper

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Cheese Swap: Use Swiss, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Mini Quiches: Make individual portions in a muffin tin for grab-and-go meals.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk alternatives.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Hash Brown Crust

Press thawed hash browns into a greased pie dish, covering the bottom and sides. Drizzle with a bit of melted butter or oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

While the crust bakes, cook bacon until crispy. Drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and optional onion. Stir in the cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Assemble the Quiche

Pour the egg mixture into the baked hash brown crust, spreading evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Return the quiche to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the quiche to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Thaw and drain hash browns well to prevent a soggy crust.
• Pre-baking the crust is essential to getting that golden crisp texture.
• Use full-fat milk or half-and-half for a richer, creamier filling.
• Let it rest after baking so it sets properly and slices cleanly.
• Grease the pan well to avoid sticking and ensure easy removal.

How to Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature with a fresh green salad, fruit, or a side of toast. It also pairs well with a mimosa or a cup of coffee for brunch gatherings. For dinner, add roasted veggies or a light soup for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Quiche can be frozen whole or in individual slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave for 1–2 minutes. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain crust crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, just peel, grate, and squeeze out excess moisture before pressing into the dish.

2. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make it the night before and reheat in the morning.

3. Is it necessary to pre-bake the hash brown crust?

Yes, pre-baking ensures the crust gets crisp and holds up to the filling.

4. What other meats can I use besides bacon?

Try ham, sausage, or even leftover roasted chicken.

5. Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk will work well.

6. Can I skip the crust entirely?

Sure! Just pour the filling into a greased dish and bake for a crustless version.

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

The center should be just set and not jiggly; a knife should come out clean.

8. Can I make this in a muffin tin?

Yes, just reduce the baking time to 15–20 minutes.

9. Can I use a different cheese?

Of course—Swiss, mozzarella, or goat cheese are all delicious options.

10. How do I prevent the quiche from being watery?

Drain hash browns well, use full-fat dairy, and don’t overload with veggies.

Conclusion

This Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is the ultimate savory breakfast or brunch dish—hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The crispy potato crust adds a delicious twist while keeping the dish gluten-free and extra satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, entertaining brunch guests, or planning meals for the week, this quiche is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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