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The Best Crispy Garlic Parmesan Hash Browns

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Hash Browns - featured image

These crispy garlic Parmesan hash browns are a quick and easy breakfast or side dish, featuring a shatteringly crisp exterior and bold, savory flavor from garlic and Parmesan. Perfect for any meal, they come together in about 20 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 ounces (about 5 ½ cups) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup (50 grams) finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Place the thawed frozen shredded hash browns in the center of a clean kitchen towel. Gather the corners and twist tightly over the sink. Squeeze with all your strength to wring out as much liquid as possible. If using paper towels, work in batches and press down firmly.
  2. Season the potatoes: Transfer the squeezed-dry potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to toss and mix until evenly distributed.
  3. Heat the skillet: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly. The butter should be sizzling and foaming but not browning.
  4. Add the potatoes: Carefully scatter the seasoned potato mixture into the hot skillet in an even layer. Gently press the potatoes down with the back of a spatula to form a single, even cake.
  5. Cook without moving: Let the hash browns cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes. The bottom is ready when the edges look deep golden brown and crispy.
  6. Flip the hash browns: Slide a spatula carefully under one edge, lift to check color, then slide fully under the cake and flip in one confident motion. Press broken pieces back together.
  7. Cook the second side: Cook for another 4 to 6 minutes without moving, until deep golden brown and crispy.
  8. Serve immediately: Slide the finished hash brown cake onto a cutting board or plate. Cut into wedges or squares and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

The key to crispiness is squeezing out all moisture from the potatoes. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and crust formation. Do not move the hash browns while cooking to allow a golden crust to form. For a spicy kick, add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Keywords: hash browns, crispy hash browns, garlic parmesan hash browns, easy breakfast, gluten-free breakfast