Hash Brown Crust Bacon Quiche Recipe

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 4

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

• 5 medium-sized russet potatoes, scrubbed and peeled
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
• 1 pinch garlic powder, or to taste
• 6 tablespoons butter, divided
• 5 large eggs, divided
• 4 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425F (220C). Lightly grease an ovenproof pie pan.
2. Shred the potatoes and place them in a cheesecloth. Lightly salt the potatoes and squeeze out as much water as possible. Pat dry with a paper towel, then transfer to a bowl.
3. Melt 5 tablespoons of butter and mix it into the potatoes. Season with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Add 1 egg and mix well.
4. Press the potato mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie pan, forming a thin crust. Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.
5. While the crust bakes, whisk 4 eggs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped green onions.
6. Once the crust is done, reduce the oven temperature to 350F (180C). Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the crust, then top with the shredded Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
7. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the cheese. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until a fork inserted in the center comes out clean and the quiche is puffed and golden.
8. Allow the quiche to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 860
• Total Fat: 61g (78% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 35g (174% DV)
• Cholesterol: 392mg (131% DV)
• Sodium: 797mg (35% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 51g (18% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (19% DV)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 29g (58% DV)
• Vitamin C: 20mg (22% DV)
• Calcium: 404mg (31% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (21% DV)
• Potassium: 1453mg (31% DV)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Hash Brown Crust Bacon Quiche

The Hash Brown Crust Bacon Quiche is a modern twist on the traditional French quiche, which dates back to the medieval region of Lorraine in northeastern France. Originally, quiches were simple open-faced pies filled with eggs and cream, often flavored with local ingredients such as lardons or seasonal vegetables. The idea of using a hash brown potato crust is a distinctly American innovation, reflecting the countrys love for breakfast potatoes and crispy textures. This fusion creates a hearty dish that blends classic French technique with American comfort food sensibilities.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While the classic quiche Lorraine remains popular in Europe, in the United States, regional adaptations like the hash brown crust quiche have emerged, especially in the Midwest and Southern states where potatoes and bacon are dietary staples. In the South, you might find versions incorporating smoked cheddar or jalapeos for a spicy kick, while in the Northeast, the focus is often on local cheeses and farm-fresh eggs. The use of a potato-based crust sets this version apart, providing a golden, crispy base instead of the traditional pastry dough, which appeals to those who enjoy texture contrasts in their meals.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

This quiche is distinct from other quiche varieties and similar dishes in several ways. Unlike a typical pastry-crust quiche, the hash brown crust offers a crunchy exterior and a tender interior, delivering a unique potato flavor in every bite. Compared to a breakfast casserole, which is usually baked in a deep dish without a defined crust, this quiche maintains a structured shape and can be sliced elegantly for serving. The combination of bacon, mozzarella, and Cheddar cheese enhances richness and umami, making it heartier than lighter, vegetable-based quiches.

Serving Occasions

Hash Brown Crust Bacon Quiche is versatile and suitable for many occasions. It is frequently served at brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, and casual weekend lunches. Restaurants that specialize in American comfort food often feature it on their brunch menus alongside fresh fruit, coffee, and mimosas. At home, it can be prepared ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks and family meals.

Interesting Facts

Despite its American adaptation, quiche itself has a rich cultural history. In French, "quiche" comes from the word "kuchen," meaning cake. The hash brown crust innovation likely emerged in the 20th century as cooks sought to combine the convenience of frozen hash browns with traditional quiche recipes. Another fun fact is that this dish balances protein, carbohydrates, and fats in a single serving, offering nearly 30 grams of protein per slice, making it surprisingly filling. It has gained popularity in modern food blogs as a comfort-food favorite with a creative twist on texture and flavor.

FAQ about Hash Brown Crust Bacon Quiche Recipe

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