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The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Homemade Hash Browns

There is nothing quite like a plate of golden, crispy hash browns to complete a classic American breakfast. Whether you are serving them alongside fluffy scrambled eggs or a stack of pancakes, achieving that perfect diner-style crunch at home is an essential skill for every home cook. In this guide, we will show you the secrets to avoiding soggy potatoes and ensuring a shatteringly crisp exterior every single time.

Classic Diner-Style Shredded Hash Browns

⏱ Prep: 15 minutes 🔥 Cook: 10 minutes 🍽 Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Shred the peeled potatoes using the large holes of a box grater into a bowl filled with cold water.
2. Swish the shredded potatoes in the water and then drain. Rinse them again until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
3. Place the rinsed potatoes in the center of a clean kitchen towel and squeeze as much moisture out as possible. This step is critical for a crispy result.
4. Heat the vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is foamy and hot.
5. Spread the shredded potatoes in an even, thin layer in the skillet. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure good contact with the pan.
6. Cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes until the bottom is a deep golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip the hash browns in sections and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until the other side is equally crisp.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder while hot and serve immediately.

💡 Chef's Secret Tips

• Always use Russet potatoes as their high starch content is ideal for achieving maximum crispiness.
• Make sure the potatoes are bone-dry before adding them to the pan to prevent them from steaming instead of frying.
• Avoid the urge to stir the potatoes; they need constant contact with the hot surface to develop a proper crust.
• Use a combination of oil and butter for both a high smoke point and a rich, savory flavor.

Essential Tools for This Recipe

To get the best results, we recommend using these high-quality tools we love.

🛒 View Lodge Cast Iron Skillet on Amazon 🛒 View Stainless Steel Box Grater on Amazon 🛒 View Flour Sack Kitchen Towels on Amazon

Prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change.

Mastering homemade hash browns is a game-changer for your weekend brunch routine. By focusing on removing starch and moisture, you will produce results that rival your favorite local diner. Pair these with your favorite breakfast proteins for a meal that everyone will love.