Crispy Homemade Hash Browns: Golden & Perfect Every Time

Start your morning right with golden, crispy hash browns that taste just like your favorite diner’s.

This simple homemade hash browns recipe delivers perfectly crunchy outsides and soft, tender insides every time. With just a few pantry staples, potatoes, oil, and a pinch of seasoning, you can whip up a breakfast classic that pairs beautifully with eggs, bacon, or avocado toast.

Whether you grate them fresh or use shredded potatoes, these fried delights are an instant crowd-pleaser. Say goodbye to soggy or greasy potatoes and hello to restaurant-quality hash browns made right in your own kitchen!

Recipe Information

• Servings: 4 people
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Why This Recipe Works

This hash brown recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your home kitchen. The secret lies in removing excess moisture from the potatoes, which gives you that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the inside perfectly tender.

Plus, you control the ingredients – no mystery additives or excessive oil. These hash browns are versatile enough to pair with eggs, bacon, or enjoy on their own with a dollop of sour cream.

Equipment Needed

• Large box grater or food processor with grating attachment
• Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
• Large mixing bowl
• Large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
• Spatula
• Paper towels
• Measuring cups and spoons

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• Fast, Flavorful & Fancy: Red Curry Poached Salmon in the Microwave

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
• 1 small onion (optional)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and grate them using a box grater or food processor. If you like a bit of extra flavor, grate the onion as well.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

This is the most crucial step! Place the grated potatoes (and onion) in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist and squeeze firmly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible. The drier your potatoes, the crispier your hash browns will be.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Transfer the dried potatoes to a mixing bowl. Add salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 4: Heat the Pan

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the potatoes – this ensures immediate crisping.

Step 5: Cook the Hash Browns

Add the potato mixture to the hot pan, spreading it evenly. Press down gently with a spatula to form a flat, even layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Flip and Finish

Carefully flip the hash browns (you can cut them into sections to make flipping easier) or use the spatula to turn them in portions. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil if needed. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy on the second side.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Pro Tips for Perfect Hash Browns

• Choose the Right Potato: Russet potatoes are ideal because they’re starchy and produce the crispiest results.
• Don’t Skip the Squeezing: Removing moisture is essential for achieving that golden crispy texture.
• Keep the Heat Steady: Medium-high heat works best. Too low and they’ll be soggy; too high and they’ll burn before cooking through.
• Don’t Overcrowd: If making a large batch, cook in batches rather than overcrowding the pan.
• Serve Immediately: Hash browns are best enjoyed fresh and hot from the pan.

Serving Suggestions

Hash browns are incredibly versatile! Serve them alongside:

• Scrambled or fried eggs
• Crispy bacon or sausage links
• Fresh avocado slices
• Sour cream and chives
• Ketchup or hot sauce
• As a base for breakfast bowls topped with eggs and veggies

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover hash browns in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze cooked hash browns in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a hot skillet with a little oil to restore crispiness. You can also use an oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes or an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Now you’re ready to make the crispiest, most delicious hash browns right in your own kitchen. Once you master this simple technique, you’ll never want to order them at a restaurant again!