Hash Brown Quiche

Makes 6-8 servings

• 3 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped cooked ham
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 425F.
2. Press the potatoes between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Press onto the bottom and the side of an 8-inchpie plate. Drizzle with the butter. Bake for 25 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350F.
3. Combine the ham, Cheddar and bell pepper in a medium bowl and mix well. Spoon into the hash brown crust. Beat the eggs in a small bowl. Add the milk, salt and black pepper and mix well. Pour the egg mixture over the ham mixture. Bake the quiche until set, 25 to 30 minutes.

For a bit of a flavor boost, add 1/4 cup minced onion or shallot to the ham mixture.