Name: Hash Brown Quiche
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained; 2 tbsp butter, cold and cubed; 3 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup 1% milk (lactose-free optional); ¾ cup diced cooked ham; ½ cup diced green onions; ½ cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste

There’s something undeniably comforting about waking up to the smell of a warm, savory quiche baking in the oven. Especially when that quiche comes with a golden, crispy hash brown crust instead of the usual pastry. This Paula Deen-inspired Hash Brown Quiche recipe is one of those game-changer breakfasts that checks all the boxes: it’s easy, filling, flavorful, and doesn’t require making dough from scratch.

The beauty of this quiche lies in its simplicity. Instead of fussing with pie crust, frozen shredded hash browns do all the heavy lifting. They crisp up beautifully in the oven, giving you that crunchy, golden base that contrasts so well with the creamy, cheesy filling. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weekend brunch or making a quick dinner on a busy weeknight, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

I first stumbled across this recipe when I needed something hearty but fuss-free for a Saturday family breakfast. My fridge had a bag of thawed hash browns and some leftover cooked turkey ham, and this quiche came together like magic. Since then, it’s become a reliable go-to whenever I want something warm, wholesome, and just a little indulgent without being overly rich.

What makes this dish even more special is how customizable it is. Whether you’re trying to clear out the fridge, follow a meal plan, or cater to picky eaters, you can tailor it to your needs. Let’s dive into what makes this quiche recipe a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this easy hash brown quiche. Let’s break them down:

Incredibly Simple: Using frozen shredded hash browns saves you loads of time. No peeling or grating required—just thaw, press, and bake.
Deliciously Customizable: While this recipe uses diced ham, you can easily swap in turkey sausage, beef bacon, or even a mix of your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms—you name it.
Weight Watchers Friendly: If you’re following the WW Purple Plan or just trying to be mindful of carbs and fats, this quiche is a solid choice. It’s packed with protein and lower in carbs compared to traditional quiches.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat individual slices throughout the week. It holds up beautifully.
Family-Approved: Even picky eaters love this. The crispy crust, the cheesy filling, and the comforting flavors make it a universal hit.
Hearty Yet Light: Thanks to the milk and egg mixture, the filling is light and fluffy without being dry, and the hash brown base gives it enough substance to satisfy.

Each bite gives you a creamy, savory filling with bits of salty ham, melty cheese, and aromatic green onions, all sitting on a perfectly crispy, potato-packed crust. It’s the kind of dish you make once and then keep coming back to week after week.

Health Benefits

Beyond its comforting taste, this hash brown quiche comes with several nutritional perks that make it a feel-good choice.

First, it’s high in protein, thanks to the eggs, milk, and ham. Protein is essential for keeping you full, supporting muscle repair, and providing sustained energy throughout your day. Whether you’re enjoying this for breakfast or dinner, you’re fueling your body with the good stuff.

The recipe also uses low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheddar, helping to cut down on saturated fat while still delivering that creamy, cheesy texture we all crave in a quiche. You can also opt for lactose-free milk, like Fairlife, for better digestion without compromising flavor.

Since the crust is made with potatoes instead of flour, it’s a nice alternative for those reducing their intake of refined grains. Potatoes are rich in potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function. They also provide a good dose of Vitamin C and fiber when prepared properly.

Lastly, the dish is versatile for various dietary needs. Whether you’re aiming for a lower-carb option, seeking something gluten-free (just double-check your hash browns and ham labels), or trying to keep calories in check, this quiche can be easily adapted.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 8 slices

Nutrition per Serving (1 slice):

Calories: 186
Protein: 13.2g
Carbohydrates: 8.8g
Fat: 10.6g (Saturated Fat: 5.7g)
Sugar: 2.6g
Fiber: 0.8g

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this hash brown quiche to life:

3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and well-drained
These form the crispy crust. Make sure they’re dry so they bake up golden.
2 tablespoons butter, cold and cubed
Mixed with the hash browns, this helps create a crisp texture and buttery flavor.
3 large eggs, beaten
The base of the custard filling—rich in protein and creates that fluffy texture.
1 cup 1% milk, lactose-free if desired (e.g., Fairlife)
Adds creaminess without excess fat.
¾ cup diced cooked ham
You can substitute with turkey sausage, turkey bacon, or a veggie mix.
½ cup diced green onions
Brings a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that balances the richness.
½ cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese
Melts beautifully and gives that savory, cheesy bite.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Essential for seasoning—don’t skip it.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 450°F. This high heat is key for getting the hash brown crust crispy.

2. Prepare the Hash Brown Crust

Thaw the hash browns completely if they’re frozen.
Place them between several layers of paper towels and press out as much moisture as possible.
In a mixing bowl, combine the dry hash browns with the cold cubed butter. Mix until the butter is evenly distributed.
Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch pie plate. Be sure to press up the sides to form a full crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bottom feels crisp.
Remove from oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F.

3. Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
Stir in the diced ham, green onions, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
Make sure everything is well combined, but don’t overmix.

4. Assemble and Bake

Pour the egg mixture into the baked hash brown crust.
Return the pie to the oven and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
You’ll know it’s done when the top is puffed and golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the quiche rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes cutting easier.

5. Serve and Enjoy
Slice into 8 portions and serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

There are so many ways to enjoy this quiche:

With a fresh side salad for a balanced lunch
Alongside a bowl of fruit and toast for a brunch spread
With roasted veggies or sautéed greens for a hearty dinner
As a stand-alone meal with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top

Pairing Suggestions

To complete the meal, try pairing your hash brown quiche with one of these delicious sides:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries, melon, and citrus adds a bright, sweet contrast.
Buttered Toast or Whole Grain Muffins: For a carb boost without overwhelming the dish.
Avocado Slices: Creamy and full of healthy fats.
Iced Coffee or Herbal Tea: Light and refreshing, especially for brunch.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Simple, crisp, and refreshing.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:
Let the quiche cool completely, then transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions:

Cut the quiche into slices and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips:

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
You can also microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes, though the crust may lose some crispness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not draining the hash browns well enough: Too much moisture will make your crust soggy instead of crispy.
Using too much liquid in the filling: Stick to the recipe’s measurements to avoid overflow.
Overbaking the quiche: This can dry it out. Remove it when the center is just set.
Forgetting to season the filling: A little salt and pepper go a long way.
Not letting it rest before slicing: The filling needs time to settle and firm up.

Pro Tips

Use a glass or ceramic pie dish: It helps the crust brown more evenly than metal.
Shred your own potatoes if you prefer: Just make sure they’re well drained.
Add a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes on top before baking for a pop of color and flavor.
Mix up the cheese: Try mozzarella, feta, or Monterey Jack for a twist.
Make mini quiches in a muffin tin: Great for meal prep or on-the-go breakfasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, but you’ll need to peel, shred, and thoroughly drain them to remove excess moisture.

Why is my quiche not fluffy?
Overmixing the eggs or adding too much liquid can result in a dense texture. Stick to the ratios in the recipe.

Why is my crust soggy?
This usually happens if the hash browns weren’t dried well or if the filling was too watery.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese. Just make sure they’re suitable for baking.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms work well—just sauté them first to remove moisture.

Can I make it ahead of time?
You can bake it fully and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your hash browns and ham are certified gluten-free.

Can I use turkey bacon or sausage instead of ham?
Definitely. It’s a great way to customize the flavor while keeping it halal.

How do I know when it’s done?
The center should be set and puffed. A knife inserted should come out clean.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Oven reheating keeps the crust crispy. Microwave for convenience, but expect a softer texture.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’ve been searching for a new breakfast or brunch favorite that’s both comforting and quick to make, this Paula Deen-inspired Hash Brown Quiche is it. With its golden, crispy potato crust and rich, savory filling, it delivers everything you want in a hearty meal—without the fuss of a traditional crust.

Give this recipe a try the next time you’re hosting brunch, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something warm and satisfying. Don’t forget to make it your own with your favorite fillings. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so be sure to leave a comment or tag me in your photos online. Happy cooking!