If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast or brunch dish that feels cozy, indulgent, and just downright comforting, then this Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine a golden, crispy crust made entirely from hash browns, packed with savory bacon and melted sharp cheddar cheese inside a luscious creamy egg custard—that balance of textures and flavors is nothing short of magic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this quiche brings a delightful twist to classic brunch fare that’s both hearty and irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe is a breeze because each one plays a perfectly simple but essential role in creating the ultimate flavor combo and texture you’ll love.
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and squeezed dry: This forms the crispy, golden crust that makes the quiche so unique.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness and helps the hash brown crust crisp up beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Seasoning the crust ensures every bite has balanced flavor.
- 6 large eggs: The foundation for the silky, custardy filling inside the quiche.
- ¾ cup whole milk (or half and half for extra creaminess): Creates a smooth texture that keeps the filling tender and moist.
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 6 slices): Adds smoky, savory depth and satisfying bite.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts wonderfully, infusing the filling with bold cheesy goodness.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Subtle aromatics that elevate the savory profile without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: For finishing seasoning the filling perfectly.
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions: Adds fresh color and a mild onion flavor contrast.
How to Make Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This higher temperature helps the hash brown crust get that irresistible golden crisp on the edges while setting the stage for baking your quiche filling evenly afterward.
Step 2: Create the Hash Brown Crust
In a bowl, combine your thawed, well-drained hash browns with melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well is key to a crust that holds together and crisps up nicely without becoming soggy. Press this mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch pie dish, making sure to press up the sides to form a sturdy crust that will cradle your filling perfectly.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Pop the crust into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the edges should get beautifully golden and start to crisp, giving you that essential textural contrast against the creamy filling that’s coming next.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together your eggs, whole milk (or half and half if you want something extra luscious), garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will be rich but balanced, setting the tone for your savory quiche filling. Then fold in the cooked bacon, shredded cheddar, and chives or green onions if you’re using them. The bacon adds smoky bites, cheddar brings cheesy melty goodness, and chives add a fresh pop of flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Quiche
Once the crust has finished baking and looks golden crisp, pour your egg-filled mixture evenly into the crust, settling those flavorful ingredients right in. Return the quiche to the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes until the center is set and the top turns a light golden color. This slow and steady bake ensures the filling is perfectly cooked—creamy yet firm enough to slice beautifully.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Give your quiche a peaceful rest out of the oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial—it lets everything set up perfectly so you get clean slices without filling spills. Serve warm or at room temperature, whichever you prefer. It’s delicious either way!
How to Serve Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions on top just before serving brightens the look and adds an extra hint of mild onion flavor. For an inviting touch, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy hot sauce can be fantastic too, adding contrast and complementing the bacon-cheddar richness.
Side Dishes
Pair this quiche with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for freshness, or serve alongside roasted tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for a cozy, complete brunch plate. Fresh fruit or a light fruit salad can add just the right sweet and juicy balance to the savory flavors of the quiche.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe in individual ramekins or mini pie tins for a charming, party-ready presentation. If you want to impress guests, arrange slices on a large wooden board with small bowls of assorted jams, mustards, or herb garnishes to create a brunch spread they won’t forget.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This quiche keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other fridge odors. It makes a perfect next-day breakfast or a satisfying light dinner option.
Freezing
If you want to make this Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe ahead of time for busy mornings, it freezes well. Wrap the whole quiche or individual slices tightly in freezer-safe foil or plastic wrap, and store for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the crust might lose a little crispness, but the flavor will stay fantastic.
Reheating
To bring your quiche back to life, reheat it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 to 20 minutes. This helps maintain the flaky crust and ensures the filling warms evenly without becoming watery or tough. Microwave reheating is faster but can make the crust a bit soggy, so oven reheating is preferred.
FAQs
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh shredded potatoes will work great, but make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a soggy crust. Using frozen hash browns is just a convenient shortcut.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you prefer a different protein or want to keep it vegetarian, cooked sausage, ham, or even sautéed mushrooms can be delicious alternatives that complement the cheddar and hash brown crust.
How do I make this quiche dairy-free?
You can swap the milk or half and half for your favorite plant-based milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but it’ll still be tasty!
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free since the crust is made from hash browns, but be sure your bacon and seasonings haven’t been cross-contaminated with gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Spinach, bell peppers, or sautéed onions can be stirred into the egg mixture before baking for extra flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to cook any veggies that release moisture beforehand to keep the quiche from getting watery.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a brunch dish that feels both nostalgic and excitingly new, this Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe is ready to wow your taste buds. It’s the perfect combo of crispy, cheesy, smoky, and creamy that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. I encourage you to give it a try—it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again, whether for lazy weekend mornings or special gatherings with friends and family.
Print
Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hash Brown Crust Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is a savory, crowd-pleasing dish featuring a crispy hash brown crust filled with a creamy mixture of eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon. Perfect for brunch, breakfast, or a cozy dinner, it combines comforting flavors with a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Hash Brown Crust
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and squeezed dry
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the 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 the quiche.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, salt, and pepper, ensuring the hash browns are evenly coated.
- Form the Crust: Press the hash brown mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch pie dish, pushing it up the sides to create an even crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 20–25 minutes until the edges are golden brown and beginning to crisp, providing a sturdy base for the filling.
- 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 fully combined.
- Add Bacon and Cheese: Stir the cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives or green onions (if using) into the egg mixture.
- Assemble the Quiche: Pour the filling evenly into the pre-baked hash brown crust, spreading it smoothly.
- Bake the Quiche: Return the quiche to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the quiche to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to finish setting and make slicing easier.
- Serve: Slice and serve the quiche warm or at room temperature for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze the hash browns well to remove excess moisture, which helps the crust crisp up properly.
- Using half and half instead of whole milk will create a richer, creamier filling.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- The quiche can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- Adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor.
