Quiche Lorraine with Hashbrown Crust Recipe
This Quiche Lorraine with a crispy hashbrown crust offers a delightful twist on the classic dish by using a golden, crunchy potato base filled with a savory custard blend of eggs, cheddar cheese, ham, and fresh oregano. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner, it combines rich flavors and textures in a beautifully presented springform pan quiche.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Crust
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted, divided in half
- 1 package (16 oz) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Filling
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ham, chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the quiche and ensure the hashbrown crust cooks properly.
- Prepare the springform pan: Brush a 9-by-2 1/2-inch springform pan with 2 tablespoons of the melted butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Line the sides: Cut parchment paper strips to line the sides of the pan. Brush the parchment with the remaining melted butter to help prevent sticking and enable clean removal of the quiche.
- Drain and dry hashbrowns: Place the thawed hashbrowns in a colander and squeeze out all excess water and moisture. Let them dry slightly to promote crispiness in the crust.
- Mix hashbrown crust: In a large bowl, combine the dried hashbrowns, remaining 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the hashbrowns are evenly coated and sticky to help bind the crust.
- Form the crust: Press the hashbrown mixture firmly onto the bottom and up the sides of the prepared springform pan using fingers or the back of a spoon to create a uniform, sturdy crust.
- Pre-bake the crust: Place the springform pan on a rimmed baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the crust is set and edges are lightly browned, ensuring crispiness and preventing sogginess.
- Prepare the filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the remaining 7 eggs and milk in a large bowl until well combined and slightly frothy for a tender custard base.
- Add filling ingredients: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, chopped ham, minced oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper gently into the egg mixture. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the quiche: Carefully pour the prepared filling into the pre-baked hashbrown crust, ensuring even distribution.
- Bake the quiche: Return the quiche to the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until the filling is set and mostly firm in the center with slight jiggle acceptable around edges.
- Cool before serving: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes to allow the filling to set further for easier slicing.
- Serve: Remove the sides of the springform pan carefully, transfer the quiche to a serving platter, optionally garnish with fresh oregano, slice, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Draining and slightly drying the hashbrowns is critical for a crispy crust; do not skip this step.
- Lining the pan sides with parchment paper and buttering them helps in clean removal of the quiche.
- Pre-baking the crust ensures it doesn’t become soggy once the filling is added.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet under the springform pan to catch any butter drips and promote even baking.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Letting the quiche rest before serving makes slicing easier and flavors more developed.
Keywords: Quiche Lorraine, hashbrown crust, breakfast quiche, easy brunch recipe, savory quiche, ham and cheese quiche, crispy potato crust, baked quiche