There are countless ways to make hash browns, but if you haven’t tried air frying, you’re missing out. This method is fast and produces hash browns that are crispy and golden on the outside, while soft and fluffy on the inside. This technique offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried hash browns. Air frying eliminates the need for excessive oil, but still manages to deliver that perfect crispiness and satisfying texture you crave.
The secret to making the crispiest hash browns is choosing the right potatoes. Potatoes with a high starch content, like russets, are perfect. The starch helps create that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and fluffy. Making them far superior to those made with waxy potatoes.
What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavour of your hash browns by adding a variety of seasonings. I kept it simple with just salt, pepper, and onion powder, but feel free to experiment with other flavours like garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne for a little heat. Once you’ve made these air fried hash browns, you’ll be hooked. They are so easy that you’ll never want to make them any other way.
This simple air fryer recipe is not only quick and easy, but it’s also a healthier way to enjoy your favourite breakfast side. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have perfectly crispy, golden-brown hash browns in no time, making it the perfect addition to any breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re pairing them with eggs, bacon, or just enjoying them on their own, these air fryer hash browns will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 10 minutes
SERVES 2 people
KIT you will need an air fryer, grater and mixing bowl
Ingredients for Air Fryer Hash Browns
5 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and grated (or shop bought frozen grated potatoes)
2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs (optional)
½ a teaspoon of sea salt
½ a teaspoon of ground black pepper
1 teaspoon of onion powder (optional)
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Method
So start by peeling your potatoes and placing them into a large bowl of cold water. Then let them soak for around 10 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, which is the secret to crispier hash browns. After the initial soak, drain the water and set the potatoes aside. Then, using a coarse grater, grate the potatoes directly back into the mixing bowl. Once again, soak the grated potatoes in fresh cold water for another 10 minutes. This double-soaking process ensures your hash browns turn out perfectly crispy, not soggy.
After soaking, drain the water and use a clean tea towel or several layers of kitchen roll to squeeze out as much of the moisture as possible from the grated potatoes. The drier your mixture, the better the texture will be after air frying.
Next, add in breadcrumbs, a pinch of sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, onion powder, and a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. Then shape the mixture into patties with your hands, pressing them together firmly so they hold their shape.
Line the bottom of your air fryer basket with a piece of baking paper. Arrange the hash brown patties on top, leaving enough space between them for air to circulate. Give the tops a light spray of vegetable oil to encourage crisping. Cook at 190°C for about 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Don’t forget to spray the other side when you flip for an even golden crust.
Once golden brown and piping hot, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately. These crispy hash browns pair perfectly with streaky bacon and a fried or poached egg for a hearty breakfast or weekend brunch treat!
Tips for Air Fryer Hash Browns
1. Use starchy potatoes
Russets or Maris Piper potatoes are ideal for this dish. As they crisp up beautifully and have the right texture for hash browns.
2. Grate and drain well
After grating your potatoes, squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean tea towel or paper towels. Removing moisture is key to crispiness.
3. Don’t skip the seasoning
Season your grated potatoes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a flavour boost. A little onion powder or grated onion can also add more depth of flavour.
4. Add a binder
Mix in a spoonful of flour or a beaten egg to help hold the mixture together, especially if shaping into patties.
5. Preheat your air fryer
It is better to pre heat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 2 to 3 minutes so your hash browns start crisping immediately.
6. Use parchment or spray
Lightly oil your air fryer basket or use perforated parchment paper to prevent sticking, especially if your hash browns are homemade and delicate.
7. Don’t overcrowd
Place in a single layer with a little space between. Airflow is key for crispy edges so cook in batches if needed.
8. Flip or shake halfway
Turn them halfway through cooking (usually around 8–10 minutes in) for even colour and texture on both sides.
9. Cook until golden
Air fry for 15 to 18 minutes in total, depending on size and thickness. Keep an eye on them toward the end!
10. Serve immediately
Hash browns are best enjoyed hot, fresh, and crispy and are perfect alongside eggs, bacon, or avocado toast.
Similar recipes
Once you’ve mastered air fryer hash browns, why not build out a full breakfast (or brunch) feast? These air fryer-friendly recipes are quick, satisfying, and ideal for busy mornings, laid-back weekends, or even breakfast-for-dinner moments. All made with minimal mess and loads of flavour.
1. Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Golden, crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these seasoned wedges are the ultimate sidekick to eggs, bacon, or a breakfast sandwich. A hearty, crowd-pleasing option that’s perfect any time of day.
2. Air Fryer Sausage Burgers
Juicy, sizzling sausage patties with zero frying pan fuss. They’re quick to make, freezer-friendly, and ideal for meal prep or piling onto a breakfast muffin with cheese and egg.
3. Air Fryer Bacon
Forget stovetop splatter, the air fryer gives you crisp, evenly cooked bacon in minutes. Whether you like it chewy or extra crisp, it’s a hands-off game-changer.
4. Air Fryer Poached Eggs
Yes, you can poach eggs in the air fryer! This clever trick gives you soft whites and runny yolks with no boiling water or guesswork. Ideal for topping hash browns or toast.
5. Air Fryer Baked Potato
Fluffy inside with perfectly crisp skins, baked potatoes in the air fryer are surprisingly fast and endlessly versatile. Top with eggs, cheese, beans, or leftovers for a hearty, build-your-own breakfast.
Mix and match with your hash browns for the ultimate air fryer breakfast spread. No hob required!
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