Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with all your favorite toppings, these loaded hash browns are a delicious way to start your day or upgrade your brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Whether you’re cooking a weekend breakfast, hosting brunch, or looking for a hearty side dish, these crispy loaded hash browns hit the mark. They bring together all the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato—cheese, bacon, green onions—on a golden-fried potato base.
- Extra crispy texture
- Customizable with your favorite toppings
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
Ingredients
For the hash browns:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon onion powder (optional)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the toppings:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Optional: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or hot sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Grate the peeled potatoes and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible—this step is key for getting crispy hash browns.
2. Mix the Hash Brown Base
Transfer the shredded potatoes to a bowl. Add flour, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and onion powder if using. Stir until fully combined.
3. Fry the Hash Browns
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture for each hash brown and press it into the pan to form a patty. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crisp. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Load Them Up
Top each crispy hash brown with shredded cheese while still hot so it melts slightly. Add bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle with green onions. Add any additional toppings of your choice.
Tips for Success
- Dry the potatoes well – Too much moisture prevents crisping.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches for even browning.
- Use russet potatoes – They have the right starch content for crispy edges.
- Want them extra crispy? Try using clarified butter or bacon fat instead of oil.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fried or poached eggs for a complete breakfast.
- Add a side of avocado or fresh fruit to lighten up the plate.
- Drizzle with spicy aioli or chipotle mayo for a twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen hash browns?
Yes. Thaw and drain them well before mixing with the flour and egg. They work great in a pinch.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftover hash browns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to regain crispiness.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes. Prepare and cook the hash browns ahead of time. Reheat and top with fresh toppings just before serving.
Are these gluten-free?
They can be. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Crispy Loaded Hash Browns – The Ultimate Comfort Breakfast
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Golden brown hash browns topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions—perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
2 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon onion powder (optional)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Instructions
1. Grate peeled potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture using a kitchen towel.
2. Combine potatoes, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and onion powder in a bowl.
3. Heat oil in a skillet. Scoop mixture and form patties. Fry until golden brown on both sides.
4. Top hot hash browns with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions. Serve immediately.
Notes
You can add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Swap bacon for turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 55mg