Air-Fryer Hash Browns: Frozen Shoestring Style

Hash browns are a breakfast staple, but getting that perfect crispy texture can be tricky. That's where the air fryer comes in! Cooking frozen hash browns in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get that crispy, golden exterior while keeping the interior fluffy. The best part? You can go straight from the freezer to the air fryer, making it a convenient option for busy mornings. With minimal prep and almost no clean-up, you can enjoy delicious hash browns without the mess of deep frying. So, if you're looking for a hassle-free way to make crispy, golden hash browns, the air fryer is the answer!

How to make frozen hash browns in an air fryer

Making frozen hash browns in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and convenient way to cook crispy hash browns. It is a perfect breakfast side dish that can be made in under 20 minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide to making delicious frozen hash browns in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Frozen hash brown patties or shredded hash browns
• Olive oil, avocado oil, or cooking spray
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Other seasonings of your choice (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, etc.)

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (194°C) or 400°F (200°C). If your air fryer does not have a preheat setting, turn it on for a few minutes to heat up.
• Prepare the hash browns: Place the frozen hash browns in a bowl and drizzle with oil. Add salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Toss to combine.
• Arrange in the air fryer: Place the hash browns in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping or stacked. Leave a little space between each patty for proper air circulation.
• Cook: Cook the hash browns for 10 minutes, then carefully flip them over using tongs or a spatula. Close the air fryer and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness.
• Serve: Remove the hash browns from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Tips:

• No need to thaw: It is best to cook hash browns from frozen as thawing can make them soggy.
• Avoid overcrowding: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper airflow and even cooking.
• Flip halfway through: For even cooking and crispiness, flip the hash browns halfway through the cooking time.
• Reheating: Leftover hash browns can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Storage: Store leftover hash browns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Refreezing is not recommended.

The best frozen hash browns to use

While there are several options for frozen hash browns on the market, not all of them are created equal. Here is a guide to help you choose the best frozen hash browns to use for your next meal.

Ore-Ida Shredded Hash Browns

Ore-Ida is one of the biggest names in frozen vegetables, and their shredded hash browns are widely available. While they didn't top the list in taste tests, they are a good option if you're looking for mashed, soft hash browns. They come in a 30-ounce bag and usually cost around $5.50.

Great Value Southern Style Hash Browns

If you're looking for cubed hash browns, Great Value offers a two-pound bag for under $4.00. However, these hash browns are on the smaller side and may not achieve the same golden colour as pictured on the package. They also have an underlying sweetness that might be off-putting to those looking for a more traditional hash brown flavour.

Great Value Shredded Seasoned Potato Hash Brown Patties

These hash brown patties from Great Value are a clear favourite among those who have tried them. They offer a good balance of crispiness and softness, and the seasoning is just right. You can find them in a 10-patty box for under $4.00, making them an affordable and tasty option.

Mr. Dell's Shredded Hash Browns

Mr. Dell's Shredded Hash Browns were deemed the best overall by food writer Danielle Centoni. They have a deep, earthy potato flavour and a satisfyingly shredded texture. The shreds are blanched in water and individually quick-frozen, making them easy to work with and able to hold their shape during cooking. You can expect them to brown evenly and crisp up nicely. While they may be harder to find, they are worth the search.

Cascadian Farms Frozen Hash Browns

If you're looking for a gluten-free and paleo-friendly option, Cascadian Farms offers frozen hash browns with just one ingredient: potatoes! They are available at Sprouts or Wegmans, and a 16-ounce package can be used to make crispy and delicious hash browns in your air fryer.

Trader Joe's Frozen Hash Browns

While Trader Joe's frozen hash browns didn't make it into the taste tests, they are mentioned as a good option by some home cooks. They are a popular choice for those looking for a quick and easy breakfast side.

When choosing frozen hash browns, consider your preferred style (shredded, cubed, or patties), flavour, texture, and ingredients. Remember to read the labels carefully, especially if you have dietary restrictions or preferences.

How to prevent hash browns from sticking to the air fryer basket

To prevent hash browns from sticking to the air fryer basket, you can grease the basket with a cooking spray or oil. You can use a high-quality cooking spray, like avocado oil, or olive oil on a paper towel to coat the basket. This will ensure that nothing sticks to the basket.

If you are using frozen hash browns, it is important to note that they already contain some vegetable oil, so there is no need to brush or spray them with additional oil before placing them in the air fryer.

Additionally, it is recommended to place the hash browns in a single, even layer in the basket with a little space between each one. This ensures that air can circulate properly and helps to prevent sticking.

How long to cook frozen hash browns in an air fryer

Cooking frozen hash browns in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a delicious breakfast side dish. Here is a guide on how long to cook them for, depending on your desired level of crispiness.

First, preheat your air fryer. If your model does not have a preheat setting, simply turn it on for a few minutes to heat up. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil – this will help to ensure the hash browns don't stick. Place the frozen hash brown patties in a single, even layer in the basket, leaving a little space between each one to allow the air to circulate.

Now, you're ready to start cooking! For hash brown patties, cook the first side for around 10 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 6-8 minutes. If you prefer your hash browns a little darker, simply add a minute or two to the cooking time. If you like them a little softer, remove them a minute or two earlier. For extra crispy hash browns, you can add another 3-4 minutes to the total cooking time.

There you have it! Golden, crispy hash brown patties, cooked straight from frozen in your air fryer.

How to reheat leftover hash browns in an air fryer

Reheating leftover hash browns in an air fryer is simple and quick. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer and Hash Browns

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 350-400°F. While the air fryer is heating up, take your leftover hash browns out of the fridge and place them on a plate or in an air fryer basket. If your hash browns are stuck together, gently separate them.

Step 2: Reheat the Hash Browns

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the hash browns inside, ensuring they are in a single layer with a little space between each one. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly and prevents sogginess. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the hash browns in batches.

Step 3: Cook for 3-5 Minutes

Cook the hash browns for 3-5 minutes at 375°F. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook or burn. If you prefer them extra crispy, add another minute or two to the cooking time.

Step 4: Flip and Cook for an Additional 3-5 Minutes

About halfway through the cooking time, use tongs or a spatula to carefully flip the hash browns. This ensures even heating and browning. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and have reached your desired level of crispiness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the hash browns are heated through and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can pair them with a variety of breakfast items, such as eggs, bacon, sausage, or a side of ketchup or sour cream.

Reheating leftover hash browns in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to enjoy crispy and delicious hash browns without the mess and grease of traditional frying methods.

Frequently asked questions