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Crispy Hash Browns Recipe

4.9 from 744 reviews

This classic Hash Browns recipe delivers crispy, golden shredded potatoes that are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection in a skillet. Easy to make with simple ingredients, these hash browns are a delicious side dish for any breakfast or brunch, with an optional cheesy twist for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 2 large russet potatoes

Seasonings and Add-ins

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Cooking Fat

  • 2 tablespoons butter or oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes if you prefer no skin or leave the skin on for extra texture. Grate the potatoes using a box grater into a large bowl.
  2. Remove excess moisture: Transfer the grated potatoes into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to ensure crispiness.
  3. Season the potatoes: Place the dried shredded potatoes in a dry bowl and season evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using.
  4. Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot and ready for cooking.
  5. Cook the hash browns: Spread the seasoned shredded potatoes evenly across the skillet in a thin layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Flip and cook the other side: Carefully flip the hash browns using a spatula. If adding cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hash browns now. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the other side is also golden and crisp.
  7. Serve: Serve the hash browns immediately with your favorite breakfast items, such as eggs, bacon, or sausage.

Notes

  • Removing excess moisture from the shredded potatoes is key to achieving crispy hash browns.
  • You can leave the potato skins on for added texture and nutrients.
  • Feel free to customize the seasoning by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
  • Using butter adds flavor, while oil can give a higher smoke point for crispier results.
  • Cheddar cheese is optional but adds a delicious cheesy layer.
  • Cook in batches if your skillet is small to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Keywords: hash browns, crispy potatoes, breakfast potatoes, skillet hash browns, cheddar hash browns, easy breakfast