If you’re on the hunt for a savory, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Hash Brown Crust Quiche Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Combining crispy hash brown edges with a rich, cheesy, and flavorful custard packed with bacon and ranch seasoning, this quiche takes brunch or any meal to a whole new level. It’s easy to prepare, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to dish for weekends and special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the crispy hash browns that form the crust to the creamy custard inside, these ingredients come together to make magic happen.
- 20-oz package refrigerated hash browns: Provides a crispy and golden crust with a hearty potato base.
- 1 cup cooked chopped bacon: Adds smoky, savory depth that elevates the flavor profile.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to give richness and a delightful cheesy bite.
- 6 large eggs: The star that binds everything together with a creamy texture.
- 2 cups heavy cream (or milk): Ensures a luscious, smooth custard that contrasts perfectly with the crisp crust.
- 1 (1-oz) package ranch dressing mix: Introduces a tangy, herby twist that livens up the dish.
- Salt and pepper: To season the hash browns and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Hash Brown Crust Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Hash Brown Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF. Season the shredded hash browns generously with salt and pepper, then press them firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. This creates your quiche’s unique crust. Bake for 15 minutes until the edges turn golden and crispy. This step sets a sturdy base that holds all the delicious fillings.
Step 2: Add the Bacon and Cheese
Lower the oven temperature to 375ºF. Sprinkle the cooked and chopped bacon evenly over the baked hash brown crust, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. These layers build flavor and texture that will shine through in every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk), and ranch dressing mix until well combined. This mixture is the creamy, tangy filling that brings everything together. Pour it evenly over the bacon and cheese in your pan.
Step 4: Bake Until Set
Bake the quiche at 375ºF for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it near the end to ensure a beautiful finish that looks as amazing as it tastes. Once out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
How to Serve Hash Brown Crust Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that complements the rich, savory flavors of the quiche perfectly. It’s simple but makes a big difference in presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with lighter sides like a crisp mixed green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. If you want to keep brunch vibes going, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a tangy tomato salsa to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the quiche into smaller squares for a party platter or cutting wedges for an elegant brunch spread. For a heartier meal, serve with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream. Presentation can be as casual or as fancy as you like, making this recipe incredibly versatile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes great cold or warmed up, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or lunches on busy days.
Freezing
This Hash Brown Crust Quiche Recipe freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the quiche slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350ºF oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps the crust crispier than microwaving, although the microwave is an option if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of refrigerated ones?
Yes! Freshly grated potatoes work well if you squeeze out excess moisture first. Just be sure to season and press them firmly to create a sturdy crust.
Is it possible to make this quiche vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply omit the bacon and add extra cheese or vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to keep the layering flavorful and satisfying.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing mix?
If you don’t have ranch mix, a combination of dried herbs like parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt works great to mimic that tangy, herby flavor.
Can this quiche be made dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk alternative for the cream and choose a dairy-free cheese substitute or increase the quantity of vegetables for extra moisture.
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
The quiche is done when the eggs are set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the edges should look firm and crispy.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Crust Quiche Recipe is a joyful blend of textures and flavors that will quickly become a treasured favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a leisurely brunch or a cozy dinner, the combination of crispy potato crust, smoky bacon, cheesy goodness, and tangy ranch is simply irresistible. Give it a try, and I promise it will earn a permanent spot on your recipe list!
Print
Hash Brown Crust Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Hash Brown Crust Quiche combines crispy hash browns with a savory bacon and cheddar cheese filling, all baked together in a creamy ranch-seasoned egg custard. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty snack, this quiche offers a delightful twist on traditional quiche by using a crispy hash brown base for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Hash Brown Crust
- 1 (20-oz) package refrigerated hash browns
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Filling
- 1 cup cooked chopped bacon (about 1 pound raw bacon cooked and chopped)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- 1 (1-oz) package ranch dressing mix
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400ºF (204ºC) to prepare for baking the hash brown crust.
- Prepare the hash brown crust: Season the refrigerated hash browns with salt and black pepper. Press them evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust. Bake for 15 minutes to crisp the crust. Remove from the oven once done.
- Reduce oven temperature: Lower the oven heat to 375ºF (190ºC) to accommodate baking the quiche filling.
- Layer the filling: Evenly distribute the cooked chopped bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the pre-baked hash brown crust in the pan.
- Mix and add the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and ranch dressing mix until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bacon and cheese layer in the pan.
- Bake the quiche: Place the springform pan back in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the egg mixture is fully set, and the top is golden brown. The quiche should be firm to the touch and cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, though the texture will be slightly less rich.
- The hash brown crust helps provide a crispy, flavorful base without needing traditional pie dough.
- Make sure the bacon is well cooked and drained before adding to prevent excess grease in the quiche.
- A springform pan helps with easy removal and neat slices, but a pie or quiche pan can also be used.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
