why make this recipe
This dish gives you crispy edges, gooey cheese, and soft potato inside. It cooks fast and uses a bag of frozen hash browns. If you like easy, cheesy meals, try the cheesy alfredo bowtie pasta with Cajun chicken for a main that pairs well with this side.
introduction
Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns Recipe is a simple oven-baked potato dish. You mix thawed hash browns with cheese, onion, butter, and oil, press on a sheet, and bake until golden. It tastes like other comfort potato dishes such as cheesy smashed potato bites, but it makes a larger pan to share.
how to make Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns Recipe
Work clean and keep things simple. Drain the thawed hash browns well so they crisp up. Mix cheese, onion, melted butter, oil, salt, and pepper into the potatoes. Spread the mix on a sheet and press it down so it holds together while baking. Bake until the edges turn deep golden. For extra crunch, switch the oven to broil for a couple of minutes, but watch closely so it does not burn. For a similar cheesy filling idea, see creamy cheesy mashed potato skins.
Ingredients :
- 1 (22 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and well-drained
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and coat it with nonstick cooking spray or use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and well-drained shredded hash browns with shredded cheddar cheese, finely diced onion, melted butter, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Spread the hash brown mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to gently press the mixture down to compact it slightly, which will help it hold together while baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges of the hash browns turn deeply golden and crispy. For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the hash browns for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully so they don’t burn.
- Remove the baked hash browns from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Cut into squares or wedges and serve warm as a delicious breakfast or side dish.
how to serve Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns Recipe
Serve warm. Cut into squares or wedges. It works as a breakfast main with eggs and bacon, or as a side with grilled meat. Try it with tacos or use it as a base for toppings like sour cream and chives. For a crisp pairing, you might also enjoy crispy chicken tacos on the side.
how to store Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns Recipe
Let it cool to room temperature. Wrap or place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to bring back crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you want crunchy edges.
tips to make Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns Recipe
- Drain the thawed hash browns very well. Extra moisture makes them soggy.
- Press the mix firmly on the pan so it holds shape.
- Use a mix of butter and oil for flavor and better browning.
- Watch closely when broiling; it goes from golden to burnt fast.
- For crisp tips that work on other foods too, see how chefs crisp fish like lemon garlic butter cod with crispy skin.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked bacon or diced ham for more flavor.
- Mix in chopped bell pepper or jalapeño for heat.
- Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
- Make individual rounds in a muffin tin for single servings.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
A: Yes. Grate fresh potatoes, rinse and squeeze out water, then follow the same steps.
Q: Do I need to thaw the frozen hash browns first?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain well so they do not release too much water while baking.
Q: Can I make this ahead and reheat later?
A: Yes. Bake, cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best crispness.
Q: Can I add more cheese?
A: Yes. Add more cheese if you like it extra gooey, but too much can make it softer.
Conclusion
For another take on crispy, cheesy hash browns, you can compare versions like the Spoon Fork Bacon Crispy and Cheesy Hash Browns recipe.
Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and coat it with nonstick cooking spray or use parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and well-drained shredded hash browns with shredded cheddar cheese, finely diced onion, melted butter, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly until incorporated.
- Spread the hash brown mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Press down lightly to compact the mixture.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges turn deeply golden and crispy.
- For extra crunch, broil the hash browns for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares or wedges.