Crispy Hash Brown-Crusted Bacon & Cheddar Quiche is a delightful twist on a traditional quiche, featuring a crust made from crispy hash browns instead of the usual pastry dough. This dish combines the rich flavors of bacon, cheddar cheese, and a creamy egg filling, all nestled in a crunchy potato crust. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.

Crispy Hash Brown-Crusted Bacon & Cheddar Quiche Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Hash Brown Crust:

• 3 cups shredded hash brown potatoes (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup melted butter

For the Filling:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Hash Brown Crust:
   • In a large bowl, mix the shredded hash browns with the melted butter, salt, and pepper.
   • Press the hash brown mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate or quiche dish to form a crust.
   • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using) in a medium bowl.
   • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced onion (if using).
4. Assemble the Quiche:
   • Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
   • Pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked hash brown crust.
5. Bake the Quiche:
   • Bake the quiche in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
   • To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the quiche; it should come out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
   • Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips:

• Hash Browns: Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the hash browns before mixing with butter to ensure a crispy crust.
• Cheese: Feel free to substitute with other types of cheese like Swiss, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
• Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

This Crispy Hash Brown-Crusted Bacon & Cheddar Quiche is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress at your next brunch or family breakfast. The combination of crispy hash browns, savory bacon, and creamy cheddar makes it an irresistible dish.