Prepare to transform your breakfast game with Kathy Van Banks' legendary Hash Brown Potatoes - a crispy, golden masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance and your morning sizzle with excitement! These aren't just ordinary potatoes; they're a culinary canvas of crisp perfection that promises restaurant-quality deliciousness right in your own kitchen. Whether you're a breakfast enthusiast or a comfort food lover, this recipe will elevate your morning meal from mundane to magnificent in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, grated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Using a box grater or food processor, carefully grate the potatoes into thin, uniform shreds. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes. This is crucial for achieving crispy hash browns.
- Finely chop the onion into small, uniform pieces.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Add the grated potatoes and chopped onions to the skillet, spreading them evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Season the potato mixture generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even distribution.
- Cook the potatoes without stirring for 5-7 minutes, allowing a golden-brown crust to form on the bottom.
- Using a spatula, carefully flip sections of the hash browns to crisp the other side, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top during the last 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt completely.
- Remove from heat when potatoes are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Transfer to a serving plate, let cool for 2-3 minutes, then serve hot as a delicious breakfast or side dish.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always thoroughly squeeze out excess water from grated potatoes to ensure maximum crispiness. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and press firmly.
- High Heat is Key: Use a large skillet and ensure your oil is hot before adding potatoes. This helps create that coveted golden-brown crust.
- Resist the Urge to Stir: Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes to develop a crisp bottom layer. Premature stirring can prevent proper browning.
- Optional Cheese Upgrade: For extra flavor, try different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda when adding the optional cheese topping.
- Uniform Grating Matters: Use a box grater or food processor to create consistent potato shreds, which ensures even cooking and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 200kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
