The Best Crispy Hash Browns

🔪 Instructions

  1. Grate the potatoes
    • Use a box grater or food processor to shred them.
  2. Remove excess starch & moisture
    • Place grated potatoes in a bowl of cold water, swish around, then drain.
    • Refill with fresh water and repeat until water runs clearer.
    • Drain well, then squeeze out as much water as possible using a clean towel or cheesecloth. (This step is key for crispiness!)
  3. Preheat your pan
    • Heat a large cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan over medium-high heat.
    • Add butter and oil, letting it get hot and shimmering.
  4. Cook the hash browns
    • Spread potatoes evenly in the pan (about ½-inch thick).
    • Press down lightly with a spatula.
    • Don’t stir—let them cook 5–7 minutes until the bottom is deep golden brown.
  5. Flip carefully
    • Cut hash browns into sections with your spatula if needed, then flip.
    • Cook another 5–7 minutes until crispy on the other side.
  6. Season & serve
    • Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any extra seasonings.
    • Serve hot with eggs, bacon, or on their own with ketchup or hot sauce.

👉 Tips for Extra Crispiness

  • Use russet potatoes (they’re starchier and crisp better than waxy potatoes).
  • Squeeze out all water—moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
  • A cast-iron skillet gives the best crunch.

Would you like me to also give you a quick oven-baked sheet pan version (super easy and less oily), or do you prefer sticking with the classic skillet style?

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