Love the crunch but not the grease of hash browns? Try Air Fryer Hash Browns!
Walk into any breakfast joint or diner on a weekend morning and, next to the usual bacon and eggs, you’ll see some version of hash browns. Whether they’re shredded, cubed, or in patties, these potatoes make for the perfect breakfast plate. Hash browns are not new to the scene, but have been a part of Americans’ mornings (and early afternoons) for over a century. Their name comes from the French verb hacher (pronounced “hash-ay”). It means “to chop or hack”, which makes sense given their shredded texture!
While I love a big mess of hash browns, what I don’t love is the grease. The air fryer is the answer. With the air fryer, it’s a hands-off cooking process; just pop the frozen hash browns into the basket and 20 minutes later, you’ve got perfectly golden, healthier hash browns without the deep frying.
Hold up. What about the taste? And the texture? Aren’t they dry since they’re non-greasy? Nope. Fortunately, the air fryer still produces hash browns that are crispy on the outside but tender on the inside. You will love the taste and can season them however you like. What’s more, they’re easy on the budget—perfect for that brunch you’re planning for you and 20 of your finest friends!
What’s with all the Different Kinds of Potatoes?
Standing in your grocery’s frozen foods section, you will see a range of breakfast potatoes: shredded hash browns, home fries (sometimes called Southern-style), and potatoes O’Brien, just to name a few. So what’s up with all the potatoes? Here’s a basic rundown. Hash browns are shredded and home fries are cubed. Both are known for their crispy outsides, soft insides, and salty, savory taste. Potatoes O’Brien are home fries with diced onions and peppers mixed in. For this recipe, use the frozen shredded hash browns so you get the all-over crunch and crisp and fast cooking time.
How do I prep and store these hash browns?
These Air Fryer Hash Browns can be cooked so quickly and easily, you really don’t need to make them ahead of time. They’re best enjoyed hot out of the air fryer. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4–5 days in an airtight container. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer set at 400°F for about 5 minutes. Microwaving is not recommended.
Can I use fresh shredded potatoes?
For this recipe, the frozen shredded potatoes actually work best. If you use fresh potatoes, the hash browns will be a bit soggy. The frozen ones do not need to be thawed beforehand. And they produce the right amount of crisp and crunch with no soggy potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Hash Browns are delicious with your favorite breakfast foods: bring on the eggs, bacon, sausage and grits! Try it alongside our Steak and Eggs for a hearty breakfast. Air Fryer Hash Browns are a super side with our Egg and Kale Cups as well. For a fun variation at dinnertime, try them on taco night. Add a little chili powder and cumin to the shredded potatoes before cooking. After they’re done, top with your favorite taco fixings: seasoned ground turkey, zesty beans, lettuce, salsa, cheese, and sour cream.
Air Fryer Hash Browns
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, toss the frozen hash browns with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned hash browns in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded, for even cooking.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then shake the basket or use a spatula to turn the hash browns over.
- Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes or until the hash browns are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately as a side with your favorite breakfast dishes.
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