Air-Fryer Hash Browns: Quick, Crispy, Fresh!

Hash browns are a breakfast staple, but getting that perfect crispy texture can be a challenge. Air fryers offer a simple, effective solution to this problem, and can cook hash browns from fresh or frozen. The circulating air in an air fryer cooks hash browns evenly, resulting in a deliciously crispy texture. This method is also healthier, as it requires less oil than deep frying or pan-frying.

Choosing the right potatoes

The type of potatoes you use for your hash browns will depend on the texture you want to achieve. If you want your hash browns to be crispy, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets. These potatoes have a lower moisture content and will develop a crackly crust when cooked. However, they may be prone to falling apart due to their starchiness. If you want your hash browns to stick together easily, go for a waxy potato like new potatoes, Yukon Golds, or red potatoes. These potatoes have a higher moisture content and will hold their shape better, but they won't crisp up as nicely.

When it comes to air fryer hash browns, some people prefer to use frozen shredded hash browns as they tend to cook more evenly and get crispier. However, you can also make hash browns from scratch using fresh potatoes. If you're using an air fryer, Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended as they have slightly less starch, resulting in crispier hash browns. Russet potatoes can also be used, but their skin tends to be thicker, so it's best to peel them before grating.

To prepare your potatoes for air fryer hash browns, start by peeling and grating them. Then, soak the shredded potatoes in cold water for at least 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Rinse and drain the potatoes, then use a kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial, as moisture is the enemy of crispy hash browns. Once the potatoes are dry, add your desired seasonings and follow the cooking instructions for your air fryer.

Preparing the potatoes

First, select the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes are recommended due to their drier, fluffier texture, which makes the hash browns crispier. However, Yukon potatoes can also be used and will yield similar results.

Next, peel the potatoes. This step is optional if you are using Yukon potatoes, as their skin is thinner and can be left on. After peeling, grate the potatoes using a box grater or a food processor with a grating disk.

Once grated, place the potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes, but preferably about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps remove excess starch, which will ensure crispier hash browns.

After soaking, drain and rinse the potatoes thoroughly. Then, transfer them to a clean lint-free kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. It is important to get them as dry as you can for the crispiest results.

Now, transfer the shredded potatoes back to a clean, dry bowl and add your desired seasonings. You can keep it classic with just salt and pepper, or add garlic powder, onion powder, or other spices for extra flavour. Don't forget to add a bit of oil to the potatoes as well, which will help with crisping and browning.

Your potatoes are now ready to be placed into the air fryer! Lightly press them down into an even, single layer in the air fryer basket. For extra crispy hash browns, spray the top of the potatoes with a little cooking spray.

Cooking the hash browns

The first step in cooking your hash browns is to prepare your air fryer. Preheat it to a temperature between 350˚F and 400˚F. The exact temperature will depend on your air fryer model and your desired crispiness.

Next, you'll want to grease your air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Spray the basket generously with olive oil, avocado oil, or a similar cooking spray. Make sure to coat the bottom and edges of the basket.

Now it's time to prepare your potatoes. If you're using frozen hash browns, simply place them in the basket and spread them into a single layer. If you're using fresh potatoes, you'll need to grate or shred them first. You can peel the potatoes or leave the peel on, but make sure to scrub them well if you choose the latter. After shredding, rinse the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch, then dry them thoroughly with a clean dish towel or paper towels.

Once your potatoes are prepared, it's time to season them. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper. Simply sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the potatoes. For extra crispiness, you can also spray the potatoes with a little cooking spray or oil.

Now, it's time to cook your hash browns. Place the basket in the air fryer and cook for 10-23 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. If using fresh potatoes, you may need to cook for a longer time, up to 25 minutes. For even cooking, use a spatula to divide the hash browns into equal sections and flip each section halfway through the cooking process.

Once your hash browns are golden brown and crispy, they're ready to serve! Enjoy them as a delicious side dish or a classic breakfast item.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer hash browns are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• For a classic breakfast, serve the hash browns with eggs, bacon or sausage, toast, and fresh fruit. You can also add some meatloaf or bean chilli on the side.
• If you're looking for a heartier meal, make the hash browns the star of the dish by loading them up with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, bacon bits, hot sauce, or guacamole.
• For a lighter option, pair the hash browns with avocado toast, vegan blueberry pancakes, or fresh fruit.
• As a side dish for dinner, air fryer hash browns go well with meatloaf, bean chilli, lentil sloppy joes, jackfruit pulled pork sandwiches, or a cozy soup.
• For a simple snack, serve the hash browns with ketchup or vegan sour cream for dipping.
• If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some unique spices to your hash browns like cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or smoked paprika.
• Don't forget the drinks! A refreshing glass of cinnamon milk or a cup of coffee would go well with air fryer hash browns for breakfast.

Storing and reheating

When you're ready to reheat, simply pop the hash browns back into the air fryer. Reheat them at around 350-370°F for about 3-6 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy again.

You can also freeze hash browns for longer-term storage. Let them cool completely, then place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Break them into individual servings, if desired, and flash-freeze for about 1-2 hours or until frozen solid. Transfer the frozen hash browns to a freezer bag or airtight container and store them for up to 3 months.

To reheat frozen hash browns, place them directly into the air fryer at 350-370°F for 5-8 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy.

Frequently asked questions