Air Fryer Hash Browns: A Quick, Crispy Breakfast Treat

Hash browns are a popular breakfast side dish, but they can be time-consuming and messy to make. Cooking hash browns in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and mess-free alternative to other cooking methods. Air fryers can also produce crispier hash browns than other cooking methods, and with less oil.

Characteristics and Values Table for Air Fryer Hash Browns

Air fryer temperature and timing

The timing of the cooking process is just as important as the temperature. For crispy hash browns, it is recommended to cook them for about 15-20 minutes in the air fryer. However, it is important to keep an eye on them, as the exact timing may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your hash browns.

If you are cooking frozen hash browns, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Start by air frying them for 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C), and then carefully check if they are crispy enough. If not, put them back in the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes.

On the other hand, if you prefer your hash browns extra crispy, you can increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes as well. Simply extend the cooking time to 20-22 minutes at the same temperature for that perfect golden crisp.

For the best results, it is recommended to flip or shake your hash browns halfway through the cooking process. This will ensure that they cook evenly on all sides and achieve that desirable crispy texture. So, remember to set your air fryer to the right temperature and keep an eye on the timing for the perfect, crispy hash browns.

Frozen vs. fresh hash browns

Cooking hash browns in an air fryer yields a crispier texture than cooking them on a stovetop or in an oven. It is also faster, less messy, and requires less oil.

Frozen hash browns are convenient and yield better results than fresh hash browns. Frozen hash browns crisp up better than fresh potatoes because they contain less moisture.

However, it is possible to cook fresh hash browns in an air fryer. Simply grate or shred fresh potatoes and follow the same cooking instructions as frozen hash browns. Note that the cooking time and temperature may vary, so adjustments may be necessary.

Cooking Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 350–400 °F. Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Add the frozen or fresh hash browns in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Spritz the hash browns with oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Onion powder, paprika, rosemary, and other seasonings can also be added for extra flavor.

Air fry for about 20 minutes, tossing the potatoes halfway through to ensure even cooking. For extra crispy hash browns, add another 3–4 minutes to the cooking time.

Oil and seasoning

Oil is an essential ingredient for achieving crispy hash browns in your air fryer. It also adds flavour and prevents the potatoes from sticking to the basket. Avocado oil, olive oil, and cooking oil are all good options. If you're avoiding oil, you can use a non-stick basket, but your hash browns will be slightly less crispy.

To prepare your air fryer, spray the basket generously with oil to fully coat the bottom and edges. You can also spritz the hash browns with a little oil to give them some fat on the surface. If you're using frozen hash browns, it's best to use frozen shredded potatoes, as they will be crispier than fresh potatoes. Spread the hash browns in a single layer in the basket, and try not to overcrowd it—cooking in batches if necessary.

For seasoning, salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder are the most commonly used. Onion powder is also a great option, and you can add diced onions to cook with the hash browns for extra flavour. For spicy hash browns, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chilli flakes. For smoky hash browns, add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.

How to store and reheat

Storing and reheating hash browns cooked in an air fryer is simple. First, let the cooked hash browns cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3-5 days.

When you're ready to reheat the hash browns, there are a few different methods you can use. You can pop them back into the air fryer at 350-400°F for 2-6 minutes, depending on the number of hash browns you are reheating and your desired level of crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave for a softer texture. If you're reheating a large batch, consider using a sheet pan in the oven to ensure even heating.

What to serve with hash browns

Hash browns are a versatile dish that can be served at any meal. They are a great source of carbohydrates, making them a perfect supplement to any breakfast item. Here are some ideas for what to serve with hash browns:

Breakfast

• Eggs are a classic pairing with hash browns. Whether they are scrambled, fried, poached, or boiled, the simplicity of eggs allows the crispy, savoury flavour of hash browns to shine.
• Bacon is a great breakfast meat to accompany hash browns. The combination of crisp and salty potatoes with smoky and savoury bacon is a great way to start your day.
• Sausages and vegetables can transform your hash browns from a simple side dish into a well-rounded meal.
• Quesadillas are another creative way to eat hash browns. Combine cheddar cheese and cooked hash browns and sprinkle them over a flour tortilla. Top with avocado slices and season with salt and pepper.
• Breakfast burritos are a great option to go with hash browns. Cut up your hash browns into bite-sized pieces and add them to your favourite breakfast burrito filling.
• French toast is a breakfast meal that, when combined with hash browns, covers all flavour bases. The sugary and cinnamon notes from the French toast create an exciting taste contrast with the salty, crispy hash browns.
• Fruit salad is a great option, especially if you're looking for a lighter option. The freshness and crunchiness of the salad balance out the rich, deep-fried goodness of the hash browns.
• Omelettes or pancakes are also a great pairing with hash browns for breakfast.

Lunch/Dinner

• Hash browns can be used as a pizza crust. Top it with marinara sauce, pepperoni, ham, and mozzarella. Then broil the pizza until the cheese melts.
• Meatloaf is a fantastic dinner that also makes a great breakfast the following day when served with hash browns.
• Chicken is a great main dish to serve with hash browns.
• Salads, especially garden salads, are an excellent side dish for hash browns, providing a lighter option to balance out the rich, deep-fried goodness of the hash browns.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches are a delightful pairing with hash browns. The gooey melted cheese and the crispy bread are just as comforting as the hash browns themselves.

These are just a few ideas for what to serve with hash browns. Whether you serve them as a side or incorporate them into your main dish, hash browns are a versatile and delicious option for any meal!

Frequently asked questions