Air-Fryer Hash Browns: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Hash browns are a popular breakfast side dish, but getting them crispy can be a challenge. Air fryers offer a simple and quick way to cook hash browns that are golden brown and crispy. You can use either frozen or fresh potatoes, and there are a variety of seasoning options to choose from. The cooking time is typically between 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the desired crispiness and the type of air fryer being used.

How to make hash browns in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Frozen shredded hash browns
• Olive oil spray
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder

Optional:

• Parchment paper
• Onion powder
• Silicone liner

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Spatula
• Wooden spoon

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F.
• Place the frozen hash browns in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. You can stack them slightly as they will shrink while cooking.
• Spray the hash browns with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add onion powder for extra flavour.
• Air fry for 10-23 minutes, depending on your air fryer model. Flip the hash browns halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
• Once golden brown and crispy, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Tips:

• Use frozen shredded hash browns for the best results.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to prevent sogginess.
• If using an air fryer with large holes, use a silicone liner or parchment paper to prevent the hash browns from falling through.
• For easy cleanup, use a parchment liner to catch any falling pieces.
• If your hash browns are not getting crispy, try preheating your air fryer, using less moisture, and ensuring the hash browns are in a single layer.

Tips for making hash browns in an air fryer

Use frozen hash browns

Frozen hash browns are ideal for air frying as they contain less moisture, which is the enemy of crispiness. If you're making your own hash browns, freeze them before air frying.

Use the right potatoes

Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for air fryer hash browns as they have slightly less starch than Russet potatoes, so they get crispier. If you use Russet potatoes, be sure to peel them first as the skin is thicker.

Wash and dry the potatoes

If you're making your own hash browns, wash the potatoes well and then soak them in cold water to remove the starch on the exterior. Then dry them out as much as possible before cooking.

Don't overcrowd the air fryer

For best results, spread the hash browns in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding will cause sogginess. If you're making a large batch, cook them in multiple batches.

Use oil

Although it's not essential, oil will help your hash browns get extra crispy. Spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick spray or olive oil, and spritz the hash browns with a little oil halfway through cooking.

Season the hash browns

Season your hash browns with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You could also add onion powder, paprika, or other spices.

Flip the hash browns

Halfway through the cooking time, flip the hash browns to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to ensure your hash browns get crispy. If you put frozen hash browns into an air fryer that isn't preheated, they will start to thaw and release moisture, which will make them soggy.

Don't add extra oil to frozen hash browns

Most frozen hash browns already contain some vegetable oil, so there's no need to add more. Adding extra oil may make them soggy.

Know your air fryer

Air fryer models vary, so you may need to experiment with cooking times and temperatures to find what works best for your machine.

Hash brown patties vs shredded hash browns

Hash brown patties and shredded hash browns are both great options for cooking in an air fryer. Here is a detailed comparison of the two methods to help you decide which one is best for you.

Hash Brown Patties

Hash brown patties are a convenient option as they can be easily purchased frozen from most grocery stores. To cook them in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the frozen patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap or stack. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, and then flip them over halfway through for even cooking. For extra crispy patties, add another 2-4 minutes to the cooking time.

Shredded Hash Browns

Shredded hash browns can be made from scratch or purchased frozen. If making them from scratch, use Yukon gold or russet potatoes and shred them using a box grater or food processor. Soak the shredded potatoes in ice-cold water to remove the starch, then squeeze out as much water as possible. Form the potatoes into patties, then spray with oil and season before air frying.

If using frozen shredded hash browns, preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray the air fryer basket with oil and add the potatoes in a thin, even layer, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. Generously spray the potatoes with oil and season to taste. Air fry the shredded hash browns for 15-20 minutes, gently flipping or shaking them every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Comparison

Both methods result in delicious, crispy hash browns that are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish. The main difference lies in the preparation and cooking time. Hash brown patties are quicker and easier to prepare, especially if using store-bought frozen patties. They also have a more uniform shape and texture. On the other hand, shredded hash browns offer a more rustic, homemade feel and allow for more customization in terms of seasoning and toppings. They take longer to cook and require more attention during the cooking process to ensure even browning and to prevent sticking.

In conclusion, both hash brown patties and shredded hash browns are excellent options for the air fryer, and the best choice depends on your personal preference and the amount of time you want to spend on preparation and cooking.

How to reheat hash browns in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook hash browns in an air fryer! If you have some leftover hash browns and want to reheat them, here is a detailed, direct, and instructive guide on how to do it:

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 370°F (187°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. This step ensures that your hash browns will cook evenly.
• Prepare the hash browns: Take your leftover hash browns out of the refrigerator and place them on a plate or in a container. If they are stuck together, gently separate them. You can also sprinkle a little water on them to prevent them from drying out.
• Place the hash browns in the air fryer: Place the hash browns in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping or stacked. If you have a lot of hash browns, you may need to cook them in batches.
• Air fry: Place the air fryer basket back into the air fryer and set the timer for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook.
• Flip and cook again: After 3-5 minutes, open the air fryer and use a spatula to gently flip the hash browns. This helps ensure even cooking. Place the air fryer basket back in and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
• Serve: Once the hash browns are heated through and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can serve them as a side dish or as part of a larger meal.

Reheating hash browns in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy and delicious hash browns. This method ensures that your hash browns are heated through while maintaining their crispy texture.

Seasoning ideas for hash browns

Hash browns are a versatile dish that can be seasoned in a variety of ways to suit different taste preferences. Here are some ideas for seasoning hash browns cooked in an air fryer:

• Salt and Pepper: A classic combination that provides a simple yet effective flavour boost to hash browns.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavour to the dish. However, some people feel that paprika doesn't add much taste, so it's a matter of personal preference.
• Garlic Powder: This adds a subtle garlic flavour to the hash browns without being overpowering. It pairs well with onion powder.
• Onion Powder: Onion powder is another subtle yet effective seasoning that can enhance the flavour of hash browns.
• Seasoning Salt: Seasoning salt typically contains a mix of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices, providing a more complex flavour profile.
• Montreal Steak Spice: This spice blend can add a savoury and slightly spicy kick to hash browns.
• Cajun Seasoning: For those who like it spicy, cajun seasoning adds a kick of heat and flavour to the dish.
• Herbs: Dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, and sage can be added for a more subtle earthy flavour. Fresh herbs like parsley can also be used as a garnish.
• Chilli Powder: A dash of chilli powder can add some heat to the hash browns.
• Berbere Powder: An Ethiopian spice blend that is fenugreek and chilli pepper forward, providing a rich and spicy flavour.
• Other Spices: Some people also experiment with spices like mushroom powder, tarragon, rosemary, or cayenne pepper.

Additionally, you can top your hash browns with ingredients like grilled onions, peppers, bacon, cheese, or fresh fruit. Sauces such as ketchup, syrup, or hot sauce can also enhance the flavour of hash browns.

Frequently asked questions