Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Achieving the perfect crispy hash browns is easier than you think! This recipe allows you to make golden, crispy hash browns with just a few simple ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent addition to any breakfast spread. You can even customize them by adding spices, cheese, or other mix-ins to suit your taste. Plus, the key to crispy hash browns—removing moisture from the potatoes—is a simple step that guarantees that satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
2 large russet potatoes (about 1 pound)
2 tablespoons butter or oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prep the Potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes (or leave the skins on if you prefer extra texture). Use a box grater to shred the potatoes into a large bowl. Once shredded, place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for getting that crispy texture! - Season and Preheat
Place the shredded potatoes in a dry bowl. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Mix everything thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly.In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. To check if the pan is ready, sprinkle a few potato shreds into the pan—if they sizzle, it’s time to cook!
- Cook the Hash Browns
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in a thin layer across the pan. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will prevent them from becoming crispy. Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.Once the bottom is crisp, carefully flip the hash browns using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re adding cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the hash browns after flipping. Let the cheese melt for about a minute before removing the hash browns from the skillet. - Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the crispy hash browns to a plate. Serve immediately alongside your favorite breakfast items like eggs or toast. For extra flavor, top with ketchup, sour cream, or hot sauce!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Lover’s Hash Browns: Add shredded cheddar cheese or any other cheese of your choice for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Hash Browns: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat.
- Herb Infused Hash Browns: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
- Onion Hash Browns: For extra flavor, finely chop some onions and mix them into the shredded potatoes.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat hash browns in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded potatoes?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded potatoes, but fresh potatoes tend to have a better texture. If using pre-shredded, be sure to pat them dry before cooking to remove excess moisture.
Can I bake hash browns instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the hash browns. Spread them in a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
How do I store leftover hash browns?
Store leftover hash browns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet or oven to get them crispy again.
Can I make hash browns without butter or oil?
Yes, you can skip the butter or oil and use a non-stick skillet to cook the hash browns, though they might not have the same rich flavor or crispiness.
How do I get hash browns crispy?
The key to crispy hash browns is to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the shredded potatoes before cooking and to use a hot pan. Avoid overcrowding the skillet so the hash browns can crisp up properly.
Can I freeze hash browns?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked shredded potatoes. Just make sure to squeeze out all the moisture, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Cook them directly from frozen when ready.
What kind of potatoes are best for hash browns?
Russet potatoes are the best choice for hash browns due to their starchy texture, which helps create that crispy exterior.
Can I add vegetables to my hash browns?
Yes! You can mix in finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
How can I make my hash browns even crispier?
To make your hash browns crispier, make sure the potatoes are as dry as possible and spread them thinly in the pan. You can also cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
What should I serve with hash browns?
Hash browns are perfect with a variety of breakfast items like eggs, toast, or even on their own with a drizzle of ketchup or a dollop of sour cream.
Conclusion
Homemade hash browns are the ultimate breakfast treat, and this recipe ensures you’ll get crispy, golden perfection every time. Whether you stick with the classic seasoning or add cheese and spices, these hash browns are a delicious addition to any meal. Try this simple recipe today and enjoy a fresh, crispy start to your morning!
Quick and Easy Hash Browns Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These quick and easy hash browns are crispy, golden-brown, and perfect for breakfast. With just a few simple ingredients, you can achieve the ideal texture every time, whether you prefer them plain or with added flavor like cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
2 large russet potatoes (about 1 pound)
2 tablespoons butter or oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes (or leave the skins on if preferred). Shred the potatoes into a large bowl using a box grater. Place the shredded potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Place the shredded potatoes in a dry bowl. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Mix everything thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Test by adding a few potato shreds—if they sizzle, the pan is ready.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in a thin layer across the pan. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the hash browns using a spatula and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- If adding cheese, sprinkle it over the hash browns after flipping. Let the cheese melt for about a minute before removing from the skillet.
- Transfer the crispy hash browns to a plate and serve immediately with your favorite breakfast items like eggs or toast. For extra flavor, top with ketchup, sour cream, or hot sauce.
Notes
To make hash browns extra crispy, squeeze out all the moisture from the potatoes and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
You can customize the seasoning with spices like cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or fresh herbs.
Leftover hash browns can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or oven.
If you’re using pre-shredded potatoes, be sure to pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.
For a cheesy twist, add shredded cheddar or any cheese of your choice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
