Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares -Question

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various experiences and opinions regarding the preparation of Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares, specifically focusing on the use of different types of hash browns and meat options. Participants share their personal outcomes and preferences related to the recipe.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about using shredded potato hash browns instead of patties and considers how to prepare them for optimal crispness.
  • Another participant shares their experience using shredded hash browns successfully, including a variation with cheesy hash browns.
  • One participant recalls a recommendation from a test kitchen representative about using seasoned hash brown patties for better flavor.
  • Another participant expresses frustration at not finding hash brown patties and prefers not to crumble shredded hash browns.
  • One participant found the dish bland with ham and suggests that adding seasoning or using sausage or bacon would enhance the flavor.
  • Another participant mentions using southern-style hash browns, which are chunked potatoes, as an alternative.
  • One participant prefers crispy hash browns before adding the egg mixture and has tried different meats, favoring sausage and bacon.
  • Another participant enjoyed the dish with salsa, indicating a preference for added flavor.
  • One participant reports a significant improvement in taste when using sausage instead of ham and adding seasoning to the shredded hash browns.
  • One participant shares a positive experience from a cooking demonstration, highlighting the ease of preparation and the popularity of the dish among guests.
  • Another participant mentions planning to use sausage or bacon for an upcoming brunch and considers making a coffee cake as well.
  • One participant states that the dish was a hit at their show, although they did not taste it themselves due to personal dietary changes.
  • Another participant made the dish with shredded hash browns and Italian sausage, declaring it a favorite meal.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best type of hash browns and meat to use, with some participants favoring shredded hash browns and others preferring patties. There is no clear consensus on the optimal preparation method or flavor enhancements.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal cooking experiences and preferences, reflecting a variety of approaches to the recipe without implying any official guidance.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on variations of the Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares recipe and those interested in personal experiences related to ingredient substitutions.

AnnieBee
AnnieBee
Gold Member
Messages
1,341
Has anyone made these with shredded potato hash browns? I couldn't find the patties today, I'm wondering if I should do anything to the shredded potato to make it more like the crumbled patties. Or are they pretty much the same thing? I'm wondering about spraying them with some oil once in the bar pan, for crispness. But on the other hand, the cheese already has a ton of fat... I'm probably overthinking this!

TIA!

I'll let you know how it turns out... Trying it out for dinner... :chef:
 
I use the shredded bagged one all the time. Works great. I even used the cheesy ones last time and that worked.

Never had a problem with them sticking.
 
I remember the test kitchen guy at conference saying they reccommend the patty ones because they are already seasoned. If you use shredded, you may have to add some seasoning sprinkled on top of them...
 
Glad to hear why they choose patty & not shredded. I drove to two different stores trying to find patty & they only had shredded. Plus I don't like having to crumble them. :)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Well, I tried these, and I was a bit disappointed. They were quite bland, definately needed some salt. I thought the ham and cheese would give them enough flavour, but I think they would be much better with sausage or bacon. I think the seasoned hashbrown patties would help too, but I wish I had put a bit of salt and pepper on my plain shredded hashbrowns before the cheese.

One more question... Should the hashbrowns be a bit crispy before the egg mixture is added? It seems that that a little crunchiness would make these even better. Mine were not really crispy, just a slightly browned. I think maybe they were not thawed enough. Or are they supposed to just be fairly soft.

I know people have loved these, so I'm trying to figure out why mine weren't that great... It's not that hard a recipe!! :)
 
Try the southern style hashbrown, they are like also called home fries. They are little chunked potatos. Thats what i use
 
My hashbrowns are golden brown and definitely crispy/crunchy before I add the egg. I used the patties every time though. I also tried it once with ham, once with sausage and once with bacon and definitely prefer the last two versions the most. YUMMO! Also with sausage or bacon I didn't need and the patties we didn't need any extra seasonings.
 
I found them to be a little bland with ham. But with a little salsa on them... yum!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
Thanks for the ideas - I will have to try these again, definately with bacon or sausage though.

Hopefully I'll find the patties next time, or the southern style.

Thanks again,

Annabel
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
Well, I finally tried this again tonight with sausage and I thought it was about a million times better than with ham. I did use the shredded hash browns again (couldn't bring myself to buy the patties - they're so much more expensive) but this time I sprinkled on a little Lawry's seasoning salt before I put the cheese on, and I think it helped alot. Very yummy! A tasty and easy "breakfast for dinner" meal :)
 
I had a show yesterday and this recipe is the one I fixed - the host decided on it about 10:15 pm the night before - it was my cousin and I didn't mind at all - her shows are always over $1,000. This one right now is at $936 and will close next Friday, about 7 or 6 more orders to come

But anyway, I remembered reading on here that the deli ham didn't have enough taste so my other cousin - her sister (she lives closer to me) and I went to the market and tasted ham - we came up with the brown sugar ham.

Yesterday before the show, because she was having a lot of people, I wanted to fix a 2nd one first, plus I have never made the squares before.

So after the demo and I asked them to tell me how the suqares were

WELL let me tell you, all them couldn't believe how easy it was for me to fix this recipe and they just LOVE it

I told them that they could change up the meat and cheese and they started rambling off different combinations

It was a good show

just wanted to share

:chef:
 
Thanks everyone. I have a brunch on May 3rd and thought of these. I'll definiately do the sausage or bacon not the ham. The host is also asking for like a coffee cake (she likes apples). I read on here somewhere about the cinnamon rolls using the PC pizza crust. are they easy to make. If so I'll make it before the guests come vs a coffee cake.
 
They were a hit at my show as is. I prefer the shredded hash browns personally for anything.

I did not taste them, so, I cannot say if I liked them or not. I am just now getting to where I can stand the taste of an egg. It took 4 months to be able to smell them, so, I guess almost 9 to taste isn't too bad, HAHAH!!!!:D Poor hubby, had to close the kitchen off to cook his breakfast:eek:
 
i made them with the shredded hash browns also. and i dont like ham so i made it with italian sausage & didnt season the hash browns. it is now one of my favorite meals out of the seasons best.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients do I need to make Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares?

To make Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares, you will need the following ingredients: refrigerated crescent roll dough, diced ham, shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Swiss), eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. You can also add optional ingredients like chopped vegetables or herbs for extra flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares?

The preparation time for Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares is approximately 15 minutes. After preparation, they typically need to bake for about 25-30 minutes, making the total time around 45 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares ahead of time. You can assemble the squares and refrigerate them before baking. Just be sure to bake them within 24 hours for the best results. If you want to make them further in advance, you can also freeze them before baking and then bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares?

Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh fruit salad, a light green salad, or some yogurt with granola. They also go nicely with coffee or a refreshing juice for a complete brunch experience.

Are Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares suitable for dietary restrictions?

Ham and Cheese Brunch Squares can be modified to accommodate various dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crescent roll dough. You can also substitute the ham with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Additionally, dairy-free cheese can be used for those who are lactose intolerant.

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