Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast side dish. By incorporating cheese into the mix, these hash browns not only achieve a golden, crispy exterior but also a melty, flavorful interior. This recipe is perfect for those who love a combination of comfort food flavors with the added satisfaction of homemade crispy edges. Here’s how to make them from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 3 small russet potatoes, peeled
- ⅓ cup flour
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- Oil, for frying
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by boiling the potatoes. Bring a pot of water to a vigorous boil. Carefully add the peeled potatoes to the pot and let them boil for 6 minutes. This process begins cooking the potatoes without making them too soft, creating the perfect texture for grating.
Step 2: After boiling, drain the potatoes and rinse them under cold water until they are cool enough to handle. This stops the cooking process and cools them down quickly for easier handling.
Step 3: Grate the cooled potatoes into a medium-sized bowl. The grating process is crucial for creating the traditional hash brown texture. Be sure to grate the potatoes coarsely for the best results.
Step 4: To the bowl of grated potatoes, add the flour, egg, softened butter, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined. The flour and egg will act as binders for the hash browns, ensuring they hold their shape when cooked. The butter and cheese will provide richness and flavor.
Step 5: Using a greased ⅓ cup measuring cup, portion out the potato mixture. Form the mixture into patties with your hands. If the mixture sticks to your hands, lightly oil them to make the process easier.
Step 6: Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the hash brown patties to the skillet in batches. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure each hash brown has enough room to crisp up.
Step 7: Cook the hash browns for 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The first side usually takes a bit longer to cook than the second. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
Step 8: As the hash browns finish cooking, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This helps to drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns hot, straight from the skillet. They are perfect as a side dish for breakfast or brunch, pairing wonderfully with eggs, bacon, and toast. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips:
- For an extra crispy exterior, make sure the oil is hot before adding the hash browns to the skillet.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella or a bit of Parmesan can add interesting flavors.
- Keep the cooked hash browns warm in an oven set to a low temperature if you're making a large batch.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
The nutritional content of Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns will vary depending on the cooking method and specific ingredients used. Generally, they are high in carbohydrates and fats due to the potatoes, cheese, and frying oil. They also provide some protein from the cheese and egg.
Crispy Cheesy Hash Browns are a delightful way to upgrade your breakfast or brunch. With their golden, crispy edges and cheesy, flavorful interior, they're sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. This recipe balances simplicity with deliciousness, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and seasoned kitchen pros. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite breakfast side.
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