Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite brunch dish: Spring Hash Brown Crust Quiche! This delightful quiche has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the blossoming months of spring. I remember the first time I made this dish for a friend’s birthday brunch. With a vibrant mix of veggies and the crispy, comforting hash brown crust, it quickly became a hit. The oohs and aahs around the table still echo in my memory!
What I love the most about this quiche is its versatility. You can load it up with your favorite spring vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or fresh herbs, and it never disappoints. Plus, the hash brown crust gives it that extra crispy texture that makes each bite a savory, satisfying experience. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it for every gathering you host!
What’s in Spring Hash Brown Crust Quiche?
Let’s break down the deliciousness of this quiche! Each ingredient contributes to its delightful flavor and texture.
Hash Browns: The base of our quiche! Frozen hash browns provide a crispy, golden crust that’s so easy to prepare. I usually opt for the shred type to create that perfect crunchy texture.
Eggs: The star of any quiche! Eggs create a fluffy, satisfying filling. I like using large free-range eggs for the best flavor.
Heavy Cream: For that rich, velvety texture—heavy cream makes the quiche indulgent and creamy. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a wonderful, cheesy flavor that complements the hash browns perfectly. I often go for a mix of sharp and mild for a nice balance.
Fresh Vegetables: Think asparagus, bell peppers, spinach, or whatever’s in season! These add color, nutrients, and loads of flavor to your quiche.
Salt and Pepper: The essentials! A pinch of each enhances all the flavors and ties the dish together.
Is Spring Hash Brown Crust Quiche Good for You?
You might be wondering if this delightful quiche can fit into a healthy lifestyle. Let me give you the scoop!
Eggs: They pack a protein punch, are low in calories, and contain vitamins like B12 and D. They’re great for energy and help keep you full.
Vegetables: Filling your quiche with fresh veggies means you’re boosting your intake of important nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, they’re low in calories!
Hash Browns: While they add wonderful texture, it’s essential to keep an eye on the serving size if you’re watching carbs. You can also try making your own hash browns using sweet potatoes for additional nutrition.
Of course, if you’re looking for a lighter option, there’s always the possibility to swap heavy cream for a low-fat alternative or use fewer eggs for a lower-fat version.
Ingredients
– 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 1 cup mixed fresh vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, spinach, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
*Serves: 6-8*
How to Make Spring Hash Brown Crust Quiche?
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your quiche is ready to go in!
2. **Prepare the Hash Brown Crust:** In a bowl, mix the thawed hash browns with a pinch of salt and pepper. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a greased pie dish to form your crust. Bake it in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until it’s golden brown.
3. **Whisk the Filling:** In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
4. **Add Cheese and Veggies:** Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and your choice of fresh vegetables. Make sure to combine everything well!
5. **Combine and Bake:** Pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked hash brown crust. Bake in the oven for another 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is slightly golden.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature—both are delicious!
Brunch Bliss That Can’t Be Missed!
– **Variations:** Don’t hesitate to switch up the ingredients based on your pantry or seasonal produce. Crumbled bacon or sausage can take this quiche to new heights, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist!
– **Serving Suggestions:** Serve with a simple side salad for a wholesome brunch or add some fresh fruit for a sweet touch!
I’m so excited for you to try making this Spring Hash Brown Crust Quiche! It’s perfect for brunches, family gatherings, or even a cozy weekday dinner. Let me know how it goes, and feel free to share your favorite veggie mix-ins! Happy cooking!