Air Fryer Shredded Hash Browns: Quick, Easy, Crispy!

Hash browns are a breakfast staple, but getting that perfect crispy texture can be a challenge. Enter the air fryer—a quick and easy way to cook shredded hash browns to golden perfection. With minimal prep and just a few simple ingredients, you can achieve that sought-after crunch without the grease of traditional frying methods. So, get your air fryer ready and prepare to make the best shredded hash browns!

Choosing the right potatoes

The type of potato you use for your hash browns will depend on the texture you want to achieve. For hash browns, crispy is the name of the game, so you'll want to opt for potatoes with a decent starch content.

There are two main categories of potatoes: starchy and waxy. Starchy potatoes, like Russets or Idahoes, have a lower moisture content than waxy potatoes, making them ideal for browning and crisping. On the other hand, waxy potatoes, such as new potatoes, red potatoes, or Yukon Golds, have a higher moisture content and tend to hold their shape better. They won't crisp up as nicely as starchy potatoes, but they will stick together more easily during cooking.

If you're looking for the absolute crispiest hash browns, go for Russets. However, if you want a balance between crispiness and ease of cooking, Yukon Golds are a good middle ground.

When selecting your potatoes at the store, remember that smooth skin indicates a waxy potato, while texture signals a starchy one. So, if you're after that crunch, opt for a potato with a textured skin, like a Russet.

While not technically a potato, sweet potatoes can also make great hash browns. They have a low moisture content, so they'll crisp up nicely, and they add a touch of sweetness to your breakfast.

Now that you know how to choose the right potatoes, it's time to fire up that air fryer and get cooking!

Preparing the potatoes

Start by choosing the right potatoes. Medium-sized potatoes work well for shredding. You'll need about 3 potatoes to make a decent portion of hash browns. Peel the potatoes to remove the skin.

The next step is shredding the potatoes. Use a box grater or a shredder to shred the potatoes into thin, even strips. A food processor with a shredding attachment can also do this job quickly and efficiently. Place the shredded potatoes in a large bowl.

Potatoes contain a lot of water, and you'll want to remove as much of it as possible to ensure crispy hash browns. Press the shredded potatoes firmly with your hands or a potato ricer to release the water. Then, use paper towels to pat them dry. The drier the potatoes are, the crispier your hash browns will be.

Now it's time to season the potatoes. Assemble your favourite seasonings; you can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or add some cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can also use other herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even shredded onions. Add the seasonings to the bowl of shredded potatoes and toss well to combine.

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. While it's preheating, brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent the potatoes from sticking. You can use olive oil, avocado oil, or any other cooking oil you prefer.

Once the air fryer is preheated, it's time to cook the potatoes. Toss the seasoned shredded potatoes with a teaspoon of oil to coat them lightly. This will help them crisp up nicely. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, spreading them into an even layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to sogginess. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the potatoes in batches.

Air fry the potatoes for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Then, use a spatula to flip them over and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of browning. If you want them extra crispy, you can lightly brush them with oil before air frying for the last few minutes.

And that's it! Your shredded hash browns are now ready to be served. You can serve them as a delicious breakfast side dish or enjoy them any time of the day.

Adding seasoning

The most common seasonings for hash browns are salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add onion powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for a little extra kick. If you're making a big batch, it's a good idea to keep some extra salt and pepper on hand to season the hash browns with after cooking.

If you're using frozen hash browns, it's best to add the seasonings after you've spread them out in the air fryer basket. Simply sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the top of the hash browns, and you're good to go!

For those making hash browns from scratch, the seasonings should be added after the shredded potatoes have been dried with paper towels. Toss the shredded, dried potatoes with oil and your chosen seasonings, then place them in the air fryer basket.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can add some diced onions to your hash browns for extra flavour.

Cooking the hash browns

First, shred your potatoes. You can do this with a sharp box shredder, or in a food processor if you have one. If you're using fresh potatoes, you'll want to soak the shreds in water to remove the starch, then dry them thoroughly with paper towels or a potato ricer. If you're using frozen hash browns, you can skip this step.

Next, preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 375°F (175°C to 190°C). While it's heating up, brush the basket with oil, or line it with a silicone or parchment paper liner to prevent the potatoes from sticking and falling through.

Now it's time to season your hash browns. Place the shredded potatoes in a bowl and toss them with oil and your chosen seasonings. You can use salt and pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for a kick.

Once your air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned shredded potatoes in the basket in a single layer. You don't want to overcrowd the basket, as this will make your hash browns soggy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Air fry your hash browns for around 10 minutes, then use a spatula to divide them into four equal sections and flip each section carefully. Air fry for another 10 minutes or so, until they're golden brown with crispy edges. If you like your hash browns extra crispy, you can add another 3-4 minutes to the cooking time.

And that's it! Perfectly crispy shredded hash browns, cooked with minimal mess and oil. Serve them with eggs, bacon, sausage, or a dollop of sour cream or ketchup. Enjoy!

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 option, serve your hash browns with eggs, bacon, and sausage. You can also add some fruit on the side, such as berries or halved citrus. This makes for a well-rounded and nutritious morning meal.
• If you're looking for a heartier breakfast, try pairing your hash browns with air fryer sausage patties, a dairy-free southwest frittata, or a vegan sausage and crescent roll breakfast casserole. These combinations will keep you full and satisfied until lunch.
• For a simple and quick breakfast, follow the lead of one commenter's husband and serve hash browns with coffee. This duo can be a satisfying breakfast, especially if you're short on time or ingredients.
• Hash browns can also be enjoyed beyond breakfast. Try them as a side dish with lunch or dinner, or even as a snack. They're a great option when you're craving something crispy and salty.
• Get creative with your toppings and dips. While ketchup is a classic choice, you can also try pairing your hash browns with vegan sour cream, salsa, or even mayo and ketchup combined. These combinations can elevate your hash brown experience.
• For a fun twist on taco night, use your air fryer hash browns as a base and top them with taco meat and your favourite toppings. This is a unique way to enjoy the flavours of tacos with a crispy potato base.
• If you're serving a crowd or want to make your hash browns go further, try pairing them with other breakfast potatoes. Air fryer home fries or roasted baby potatoes can complement your hash browns and provide a variety of textures and flavours.

Frequently asked questions