Name: Parmesan Hash Browns
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 medium russet potatoes; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons parsley (fresh, chopped)

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There’s something incredibly comforting about crispy, golden-brown potato dishes, and when it comes to breakfast or brunch, nothing quite hits the spot like Parmesan Hash Browns. I can still remember the first time I tasted this delightful dish at a cozy diner. The aroma of freshly grated potatoes sizzling in hot oil wafted through the air, drawing me in. As I took my first bite, the crunch on the outside gave way to tender, fluffy potato goodness inside, all topped with the irresistible umami of grated Parmesan cheese. It’s a dish that instantly reminds me of lazy Sunday mornings spent with family, where we gather around the table to enjoy a hearty meal before heading out for the day. If you’re looking to elevate your breakfast game, then these Parmesan Hash Browns are the way to go.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Food Processor, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why This Parmesan Hash Browns Works

Irresistible Crunch

The first reason I absolutely adore Parmesan Hash Browns is the delightful crunch they bring. When you cook them just right, each bite sings with that satisfying texture. It’s a wonderful contrast to the fluffy interior and makes this dish a standout on any breakfast table.

Flavor Boost

The addition of Parmesan cheese takes these hash browns to a whole new level. It adds a savory richness that complements the natural potato flavor beautifully. You don’t just taste potatoes; you taste the love and depth that comes with every sprinkle of cheese.

Versatile Delight

Another reason I love this recipe is its versatility. You can serve Parmesan Hash Browns as a side with eggs, alongside a fresh salad for lunch, or even topped with your favorite sauces for a quick and easy dinner. They fit seamlessly into any meal, making them a fantastic go-to recipe!

Quick and Easy

In our busy lives, we often need meals that are quick yet satisfying. This recipe for Parmesan Hash Browns can be prepared in no time at all. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious side dish that will impress everyone at the table. You’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.

Comfort Food

We can’t forget about the comfort factor. There’s something about crispy potatoes that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeling a bit under the weather or simply want to indulge, Parmesan Hash Browns provide that perfect escape.

Crowd-Pleaser

Finally, these hash browns are guaranteed to please a crowd. They are perfect for brunch parties or family breakfasts, as everyone loves a good potato dish. I’ve never seen a plate of Parmesan Hash Browns that didn’t disappear within minutes!

Essential Ingredients for Parmesan Hash Browns

When it comes to creating the perfect Parmesan Hash Browns, the choice of ingredients plays a crucial role. Each ingredient contributes unique flavors and textures that work harmoniously together. The key players include russet potatoes, which provide the fluffiness, and Parmesan cheese, which adds a savory depth. Working with fresh ingredients enhances the overall taste and ensures a delightful outcome.

2 medium russet potatoes: The star of the dish! These potatoes offer the ideal starch content for a crispy exterior while remaining fluffy inside.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and helps draw out moisture for that perfect crunch.
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: This cheesy goodness gives the hash browns a rich flavor and a deliciously savory note.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for frying, it helps achieve that luscious golden-brown crust that we all crave.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and freshness, making the dish not only tasty but also visually appealing.

How to Prepare Parmesan Hash Browns

Making Parmesan Hash Browns is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Follow along as I guide you through the steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying your very own crispy hash browns.

Start by coarsely grating the russet potatoes using a box grater or a food processor. The goal here is to create thin, even shreds that will cook perfectly. If you want to maximize the texture, make sure you don’t over-process them.
Once grated, sprinkle the potatoes with sea salt. Toss lightly to coat the potatoes evenly. This step is crucial as it helps draw out excess moisture, which is key to achieving that irresistible crunch.
Transfer the salted potatoes to a fine-mesh strainer placed over a bowl. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period is important as it ensures that you’ll get the maximum moisture out.
After 10 minutes, take a wooden spoon or spatula and press down on the potatoes in the strainer. Extract as much water as possible, then move the grated potatoes to a separate bowl.
Now it’s time to add the magic! Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Toss lightly with a fork to combine everything, ensuring that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
In a large cast-iron or stainless-steel skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot. You want the oil to shimmer gently, indicating that it’s hot enough for frying.
Carefully add the potato mixture to the skillet in an even layer. Avoid stirring it too soon; let it cook undisturbed for several minutes. This will help form a nice crust.
After a few minutes, use a spatula to check the bottom. If it’s a lovely golden brown, it’s time to flip those hash browns! Gently turn them over and continue cooking until the other side is also beautifully browned.
Once both sides are a perfect shade of golden brown, remove the Parmesan Hash Browns from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy every crispy bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Grating Technique: Coarsely grating the potatoes allows for a better texture. The larger shreds will create that crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
Resting the Potatoes: Don’t skip the resting step! This allows excess moisture to escape, which is vital for achieving the desired crispiness.
Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the potatoes to avoid sogginess. A good test is to drop a small piece of potato in; it should sizzle immediately.
Mixing Cheese: Tossing the shredded potatoes with Parmesan cheese not only enhances flavor but also helps in forming those delicious crusty edges.

Helpful Hints

Here are some tips to ensure your Parmesan Hash Browns turn out perfectly every time. These insights will help you navigate through the cooking process with ease.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet for that crispy texture.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked hash browns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat in an oven to restore crispiness.
Pairing: These hash browns pair wonderfully with eggs, avocado, or even a salsa for a fresh twist. You can also enjoy them alongside a refreshing salad.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like sour cream, chives, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an added kick.
Cooking in Batches: If you’re making a larger quantity, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of frying.

Pairing Suggestions for Parmesan Hash Browns

When it comes to serving Parmesan Hash Browns, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful options that you can consider:

With Eggs: Serve your crispy hash browns alongside sunny-side-up or scrambled eggs for a classic breakfast combo.
Breakfast Burrito: Use them as a filling in breakfast burritos for an easy, on-the-go meal.
Avocado Toast: Top your hash browns with smashed avocado and a sprinkle of salt for a trendy twist.
Fresh Salads: Pair them with a vibrant garden salad for a satisfying lunch option.
Brunch Gatherings: They make a perfect addition to brunch menus, alongside pancakes or waffles.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, keep them stored in the fridge, and consider reheating them in the oven for that extra crispiness.

FAQ

Yes! You can prepare the grated potato mixture ahead of time. Just make sure to keep them in water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook them, drain and pat them dry before frying.

These hash browns pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them with eggs, avocado, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal. They’re also great as a side dish for dinner!

Russet potatoes are the best choice for this recipe due to their high starch content, which helps achieve that fluffy interior and crispy exterior. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t yield the same texture.

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding onions, bell peppers, or even different cheeses for added flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

The Parmesan Hash Browns are a delightful blend of crispy, cheesy, and comforting flavors that make them a perfect addition to any meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner, these hash browns are sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the deliciousness!