Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine the thawed hash browns and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom and sides of the pie dish to create your crust.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the crust, followed by the cheddar cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Expert Tips
- For an extra crispy crust, brush the hash browns with a little extra melted butter before baking.
- Squeeze out excess moisture from the thawed hash browns for a crispier crust.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or Gruyere!
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare the quiche the night before and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free hash browns, or substitute with shredded zucchini or sweet potatoes.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh salad with a light vinaigrette
- Fruit platter
- Part of a larger brunch spread
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate.
- Can I freeze it? Yes! Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.
- Other meats? Absolutely! Use cooked sausage, ham, or chicken instead of bacon.
Enjoy your delicious Bacon and Cheese Quiche!