Picture this: a golden, crispy hash brown crust cradling a rich, cheesy, and savory filling of ham and eggs. A dish like this isn’t just breakfast; it’s a celebration of comfort food. Ham and cheese quiche with a hash brown crust is perfect for family brunches, holiday mornings, or even a quick weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll master this crowd-pleasing dish in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Quiche

• Versatile: Suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the fillings to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or hosting.

Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Quiche with Hash Brown Crust

For the Crust

Ingredient	Quantity
Frozen hash browns	3 cups
Butter, melted	2 tablespoons
Salt	1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon

For the Filling

Ingredient	Quantity
Cooked ham, diced	1 cup (150 g)
Shredded cheese	1 cup (100 g)
Large eggs	4
Milk (or half-and-half)	1 cup (240 ml)
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg (optional)	1/4 teaspoon
Fresh parsley or chives	1 tablespoon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Hash Brown Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the hash browns, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch pie dish, spreading it evenly along the bottom and up the sides.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and slightly crispy.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Dice the cooked ham into small pieces and shred your choice of cheese.
2. Spread the ham evenly over the bottom of the baked hash brown crust.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the ham.

3. Make the Egg Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
2. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

4. Assemble the Quiche

1. Pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
2. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for added color.

5. Bake the Quiche

1. Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
2. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

6. Cool and Serve

1. Allow the quiche to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creation.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 Slice)
Calories	280
Protein	14 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	450 mg

Tips for Success

1. Use Dry Hash Browns: Squeeze out any excess moisture from frozen hash browns to ensure a crispy crust.
2. Blend Cheese Varieties: Mix cheddar with Swiss or Gruyère for a richer flavor.
3. Don’t Skip Blind Baking: Pre-baking the crust prevents sogginess and enhances texture.
4. Make It Vegetarian: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

Variations to Try

1. Bacon and Spinach Quiche: Substitute ham with crispy bacon and add sautéed spinach.
2. Mediterranean Twist: Use feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives for a Greek-inspired flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy quiche.

FAQs About Ham and Cheese Quiche with Hash Brown Crust

1. Can I make the quiche ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the quiche up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm.

2. Can I freeze the quiche?

Absolutely. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months.

3. What other cheeses work well?

Cheddar, Swiss, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even goat cheese pair beautifully with this recipe.

4. How do I prevent the crust from sticking?

Grease your pie dish thoroughly or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.

5. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, but shred them finely and squeeze out excess moisture before using.

6. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.

Conclusion: A Delightful Dish for Every Occasion

Ham and cheese quiche with a hash brown crust is the epitome of comfort food. Its crispy crust and savory filling make it a versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family, hosting a brunch, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe won’t disappoint.

Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your creation with loved ones. They’ll be asking for seconds in no time!

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