Imagine this: a golden, crispy hash brown crust cradling a fluffy, cheesy, and savory egg filling, dotted with crispy bacon and fresh chives. This bacon, cheddar, and chive quiche with a hash brown crust is the ultimate comfort food for breakfast or brunch, and it’s guaranteed to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re looking to jazz up a weekend meal or create a dish that works for meal prep, this quiche checks all the boxes.
This recipe is especially great because it combines two breakfast favorites—crispy hash browns and quiche—into one cohesive dish. The hash brown crust is a fun twist that adds both flavor and texture, while the filling is endlessly adaptable. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, even for beginners.
For me, this dish has become a go-to for weekend brunches when I want something a little more special than the usual scrambled eggs and toast. I first made it for a family gathering, and it was such a hit that everyone asked for the recipe. Since then, it’s been my secret weapon whenever I need to feed a crowd or prepare something in advance for busy mornings.
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheddar Quiche Recipe
First off, let’s talk about how easy this quiche is to make. The crust is made from frozen hash browns, which means no rolling out dough or fussing with pastry. Simply press the hash browns into a pan, bake until crisp, and you’re halfway there.
Then there’s the flavor—rich, savory, and packed with all the breakfast staples we love. The combination of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives creates layers of deliciousness in every bite. Plus, caramelized onions bring a subtle sweetness that balances everything perfectly.
And let’s not forget its versatility. This quiche is ideal for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully. You can even freeze it for later, making it a lifesaver for busy mornings or unexpected guests. It’s equally at home on a holiday brunch table as it is during a casual weekend breakfast.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts impressive and approachable, this is it.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including crust par-baking)
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 slices
Ingredients of the Bacon Cheddar Quiche
Hash Brown Crust
- 20 oz frozen hash browns, thawed (squeeze out excess liquid)
- ½ cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Quiche Filling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ onion, thinly sliced
- 6 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
- 4 slices turkey or beef bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Hash Brown Crust
Start by preparing the crust, which will serve as the crispy, flavorful base for the quiche. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F.
In a large bowl, mix the thawed hash browns with shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to squeeze out any excess liquid from the hash browns beforehand to prevent a soggy crust.
Take a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Press the hash brown mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. You can use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to help press the mixture down firmly.
Place the pan in the freezer for at least one hour. This helps the crust hold its shape when baking.
Once the crust has firmed up, par-bake it in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until it begins to turn golden brown. Set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Make the Filling
While the crust cools, it’s time to make the star of the show: the quiche filling. Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized. This will take about 10–15 minutes. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness of the onions.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the caramelized onions, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling into the prepared hash brown crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Lower the oven temperature to 375°F and bake the quiche for 25–30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
If you like your crust extra crispy, run a knife around the edge of the springform pan to loosen the quiche and release it. Place the quiche back in the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes to crisp up the sides of the crust.
Once the quiche is done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to cut clean slices. Garnish with extra chives before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve the Bacon Cheddar Quiche
This quiche is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Serve with a fresh arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a light, balanced meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, for added nutrition.
- Offer it alongside warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up every bit of the creamy filling.
- For a classic brunch spread, serve it with fruit salad, fresh orange juice, and a pot of coffee.
Tips for Success
- Drain the Hash Browns: Make sure to remove as much liquid as possible from the thawed hash browns. Excess moisture can make the crust soggy.
- Even Crust: Use a glass or measuring cup to press the crust mixture evenly into the pan for a professional look.
- Customize the Filling: Don’t hesitate to experiment with the filling. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or swapping the cheddar for feta or Swiss cheese.
- Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Take your time with the onions. Proper caramelization adds a layer of sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Rest the Quiche: Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing to ensure it holds its shape.
Bacon Cheddar Quiche Recipe Variations
This recipe is a great starting point, but there are endless ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers instead.
- Cheese Swaps: Swap out the cheddar for Swiss, Gruyere, or even a crumbly cheese like feta.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses hash browns for the crust. Just ensure your other ingredients, like bacon, are gluten-free.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the filling for a bit of heat.
Freezing and Storage
This quiche is an excellent candidate for make-ahead prep or freezing.
- To Store Leftovers: Place leftover slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- To Freeze: Cool the quiche completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, bake at 425°F for 30–35 minutes straight from the freezer, or until heated through.
Special Equipment
- Springform Pan: A springform pan makes it easy to release the quiche without damaging the crust. If you don’t have one, a pie dish works fine.
- Measuring Cup: Handy for pressing the hash brown crust into the pan.
- Skillet: For caramelizing the onions to perfection.
FAQ
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, just make sure to shred them finely and squeeze out any excess moisture before using.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Absolutely! Whole milk works as a lighter alternative, though the texture won’t be as rich.
How do I prevent my crust from sticking?
Grease your pan generously with butter or non-stick spray to avoid sticking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the quiche a day in advance, refrigerate it, and reheat it in the oven before serving.
This bacon, cheddar, and chive quiche with a crispy hash brown crust is a foolproof way to make any meal feel special. Give it a try, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out!
Print
Bacon, Cheddar, and Chive Quiche with Hash Brown Crust: The Perfect Brunch Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A crispy hash brown crust meets a rich, savory filling in this Bacon, Cheddar, and Chive Quiche. Loaded with caramelized onions, crispy turkey or beef bacon, and creamy cheddar, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or meal prep. Easy to make and endlessly customizable!
Ingredients
- Hash Brown Crust:
- 20 oz frozen hash browns, thawed and drained
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Quiche Filling:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ onion, thinly sliced
- 6 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 4 slices turkey or beef bacon, crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Mix thawed hash browns with cheddar, salt, and pepper. Press into a greased 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Freeze for 1 hour.
- Par-bake crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Cool slightly.
- Sauté onions in butter over medium heat for 10–15 minutes until caramelized. Set aside.
- Whisk eggs and cream in a bowl. Stir in caramelized onions, bacon, cheese, chives, and seasoning.
- Pour the filling into the crust. Lower oven to 375°F and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra chives and serve.
Notes
- Ensure hash browns are thoroughly drained to avoid sogginess.
- For added crispiness, bake the crust an extra 5 minutes before adding the filling.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American