Air-Fryer Hash Browns: Shredded, Cooked, Crispy!

If you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious breakfast side dish, look no further than shredded hash browns made in an air fryer. Not only is this cooking method faster and less messy than stovetop or oven cooking, but it also yields incredibly crispy hash browns with a tender inside. The key to achieving the perfect level of crispiness is to ensure that the hash browns are spread out in an even layer within the air fryer and to spritz them with oil. Additionally, preheating the air fryer is essential to achieving the desired level of crispiness. You can also experiment with various seasonings, such as garlic powder, salt, pepper, and onion powder, to enhance the flavor of your shredded hash browns.

Air fryer temperature and time

The ideal temperature and time for cooking shredded hash browns in an air fryer depend on the type of potatoes used and whether they are fresh or frozen.

For frozen shredded hash browns, preheat your air fryer to 370°F (187°C) or 375°F (191°C). If you want to use fresh potatoes, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (177°C).

Once preheated, add the shredded potatoes to the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you are using frozen potatoes, it is recommended to toss them with oil and seasonings before placing them in the air fryer. For fresh potatoes, spray the basket with non-stick spray and then layer the potatoes. Spritz the potatoes with oil to prevent sticking and to add flavour.

For frozen shredded hash browns, cook for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking or flipping the potatoes every 5 to 6 minutes. If you prefer your hash browns extra crispy, add another 3 to 4 minutes to the cooking time.

For fresh shredded hash browns, air fry for about 16 to 20 minutes. After about 8 to 10 minutes of cooking, flip the potatoes and spritz them with a little more oil.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of your air fryer and the amount of potatoes you are cooking. Always ensure that the potatoes are in a single layer and not overcrowded in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Oil and seasoning

Oil

You can use any cooking oil of your choice for your hash browns. Some common options include canola oil, vegetable oil, and avocado oil. If you are using a non-stick basket, you can skip the oil, but your hash browns will be slightly less crispy.

To apply the oil, you can spritz or spray it onto the hash browns. You can also toss the shredded potatoes in oil before placing them in the air fryer. If you are using frozen hash browns, you can spritz them with oil to prevent them from drying out.

Seasoning

Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika are common seasonings used for hash browns. You can also add onion powder or fresh onions for extra flavour. For spicy hash browns, include cayenne pepper or chilli flakes. Smoked paprika will give your hash browns a smoky flavour.

When to Season

You can season your hash browns before or after cooking them in the air fryer. Some recipes suggest seasoning the grated potatoes before placing them in the air fryer. Alternatively, you can season the hash browns after cooking, adding more salt and pepper as needed.

Potato type and preparation

The type of potato you use for shredded hash browns in an air fryer is important. While Russet potatoes are the most common, Yukon potatoes are recommended for air fryer hash browns because they are a bit smaller and have a waxy skin.

Preparing the potatoes correctly is key to achieving the desired crispy texture. Start by peeling the potatoes, then grate or shred them using a box grater or food processor. It is important to remove excess starch from the potatoes by soaking them in water and rinsing them several times. Drain the potatoes and use paper towels or a potato ricer to dry them thoroughly.

Next, season the potatoes. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, but you can also add cayenne or paprika for a spicier kick. Toss the shredded potatoes with a small amount of olive oil or avocado oil to coat them evenly and enhance crispiness.

Finally, spread the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, taking care not to overcrowd the basket. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F to 375°F and cook the hash browns for 10 to 23 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. For extra crispy hash browns, add a few more minutes to the cooking time.

Serving suggestions

Shredded hash browns cooked in an air fryer can be served as a classic breakfast item, alongside eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, and fresh fruit. They can also be served as a dinner side with meatloaf, bean chili, lentil sloppy joes, jackfruit pulled pork sandwiches, or any cozy soup recipe that is usually served with bread or French fries.

If you want to keep it simple, serve your air-fried hash browns with some over-easy or sunny-side-up eggs. You can also serve them with bagel breakfast casserole, hot sauce, avocado toast, or a dipping sauce.

For a more indulgent option, load your hash browns with a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, bacon bits, hot sauce, or guacamole.

If you're serving a crowd or looking for a more substantial meal, pair your air-fried hash browns with air fryer bacon, sweet cream pancakes, French toast sticks, hard-boiled eggs, pancakes, turkey bacon, scrambled eggs, cream cheese toast, or cinnamon milk.

No matter how you serve them, air-fried hash browns are a delicious and crispy treat that can be made with minimal effort and less oil than traditional frying methods.

Reheating and storage

Shredded hash browns are a great, easy and delicious side dish that can be cooked in an air fryer. They are also convenient to reheat and store.

Leftover shredded hash browns can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat them, simply place them in a preheated air fryer at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 to 5 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispy texture that is characteristic of air-fried hash browns.

If your air fryer basket has larger holes, using a silicone liner or a parchment round is recommended. This not only prevents the hash browns from falling through but also facilitates easier cleanup. Remember to place the parchment paper in the air fryer after preheating to avoid any issues.

The air fryer is considered the best option for reheating fried potatoes, as other methods, such as the microwave, tend to make them soggy. If you don't have access to an air fryer, alternative reheating methods include a toaster oven, regular oven, pan, or griddle.

Frequently asked questions