If you have a soft spot for breakfast classics, you are going to fall head over heels for this Homemade Crispy Hash Browns Recipe. There’s something magical about that golden, crunchy exterior paired with a tender, fluffy inside that takes simple potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness. This recipe brings out the best in russet potatoes by turning them into a perfectly crisped, flavorful side dish that’s incredibly satisfying to make and even better to eat. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy morning at home or impressing friends at brunch, these hash browns hit every note you want from a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Homemade Crispy Hash Browns Recipe is in its simplicity. With just a handful of basic ingredients, each adds a crucial touch to ensure your hash browns come out crispy, tasty, and beautifully golden every time.
- 4 large russet potatoes: The king of potatoes for hash browns thanks to their starchy, fluffy texture when cooked.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Provides the perfect fat for frying, allowing for a crunchy crust without overpowering the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural potato sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that balances the earthiness of the potatoes.
- Optional – 1/4 teaspoon garlic or onion powder: Infuses a gentle aromatic depth for those who love an extra layer of seasoning.
How to Make Homemade Crispy Hash Browns Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling your russet potatoes and giving them a good rinse under cold water. This refreshes the potatoes and gets them ready for grating, which is the next crucial step to achieving that classic texture.
Step 2: Grate the Potatoes
Using a box grater or a food processor fitted with a grater, shred the potatoes into fine pieces. This rough texture is what allows the potatoes to crisp up beautifully when cooked.
Step 3: Remove Excess Starch
Place the grated potatoes in a bowl filled with cold water and swirl them around gently. This step washes away excess starch, helping the hash browns cook up light rather than gummy.
Step 4: Dry the Potatoes Thoroughly
Drain the water and then wrap the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Press firmly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. The drier your potatoes, the crunchier your hash browns will be. This step is a game changer!
Step 5: Season the Potatoes
Transfer your dried potatoes to a fresh bowl. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, garlic or onion powder. Toss everything until the potatoes are evenly coated, unlocking layers of flavor before cooking.
Step 6: Cook the Hash Browns
Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, spread the grated potato mixture evenly across the pan. Don’t crowd the pan; an even layer ensures maximum crispiness.
Step 7: Press Down for Crust Formation
Using a spatula, gently press the potatoes down into an even layer. This helps them cook consistently and develop a delicious crust that holds together when flipped.
Step 8: Cook Until Golden and Crispy
Allow the hash browns to cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s time to flip when the edges turn a beautiful golden brown and the bottom feels firm to the touch.
Step 9: Flip and Finish Cooking
Carefully flip the hash browns in sections using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until it matches the same gorgeous golden crispiness. Patience at this stage brings rewarding results.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your perfectly crisped hash browns onto a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess oil. Serve immediately for the best texture alongside eggs, bacon, or your favorite breakfast companions.
How to Serve Homemade Crispy Hash Browns Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced green onions can elevate the humble hash brown to brunch-star status. They add refreshing colors and pops of flavor that contrast perfectly with the crispy potatoes.
Side Dishes
Homemade Crispy Hash Browns Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic breakfast staples like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or grilled sausages. For a heartier meal, pair with avocado slices or a fresh tomato salad for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these hash browns as a base for a breakfast bowl topped with poached eggs, hollandaise sauce, or even a hearty chili. Another great idea is to shape them into small patties and serve as mini potato cakes for a party platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 2 days and keep their flavor, although the texture may soften slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked hash browns by laying them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking together and allows you to reheat just the amount you want anytime.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your hash browns is in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to restore their crispness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that satisfying crunch intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because of their starchy texture, which crisps up nicely. You can try Yukon Golds, but your hash browns might be less crispy and a bit waxier.
How do I make my hash browns extra crispy?
Removing excess moisture from the grated potatoes is essential. Be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible before cooking, and cook in hot oil without disturbing the pan early on.
Is it necessary to soak the potatoes in water?
Yes, soaking removes extra starch that can cause the hash browns to turn gummy instead of crisp. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference.
Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?
You can grate and soak the potatoes a few hours in advance, but make sure to dry and cook them fresh for the best texture. If prepped early, keep them covered in cold water to prevent browning.
What oil is best for frying hash browns?
Vegetable oil works great because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, but you can also use canola or sunflower oil. Avoid strong-flavored oils as they can alter the taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about making your own crispy hash browns from scratch, and this Homemade Crispy Hash Browns Recipe is a brilliant way to enjoy that golden goodness right in your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing breakfast classic that feels both comforting and impressive. So go ahead, grab those potatoes, and treat yourself to the perfect crispy hash browns—you deserve it!
Print
Homemade Crispy Hash Browns Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and golden homemade hash browns made from fresh russet potatoes, seasoned simply with salt and pepper, and cooked to perfection in a hot skillet. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these hash browns are easy to prepare and customizable with optional seasonings like garlic or onion powder.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes (peeled)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or more as needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and rinse them under cold water to clean.
- Grate the potatoes: Use a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment to shred the potatoes finely.
- Remove excess starch: Place the grated potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and swirl them around to help remove excess starch, which helps in making the hash browns crispier.
- Drain and dry: Drain off the water and squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure crispiness.
- Season the potatoes: Transfer the grated potatoes to a clean bowl. Add salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic or onion powder. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Cook the hash browns – first side: Add the grated potatoes to the skillet, spreading them out evenly into a layer. Press down gently with a spatula to help them cook evenly and form a crust. Let cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and cook the second side: Carefully flip the hash browns in sections using a spatula. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is also golden and crispy.
- Drain excess oil and serve: Transfer the cooked hash browns to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil. Serve immediately, ideally with eggs, bacon, or your favorite breakfast sides.
Notes
- For extra crispy hash browns, ensure the potatoes are as dry as possible before cooking.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with canola or olive oil if preferred.
- Adding finely chopped onions or herbs to the seasoning mix can add extra flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor as hash browns tend to lose crispness upon sitting.
