These homemade hash browns are crispy, golden perfection. With a crunchy exterior and a soft, tender interior, they are the ideal complement to any breakfast or brunch. Made from freshly grated russet potatoes, they capture the nostalgic taste of McDonald’s hash browns, with the added benefit of being homemade and customizable to your liking.
They’re quick, easy to make, and the perfect dish to serve with eggs, bacon, or even just on their own. You can also experiment with adding your favorite herbs or spices to create a variation that’s perfect for your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for one or feeding a crowd, these hash browns will surely be a hit!
Ingredients:
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4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and grated
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions:
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Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step helps in getting a crispy texture.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated.
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Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, spoon about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture into the pan, flattening it into a round shape with a spatula. Repeat with the remaining mixture, cooking in batches.
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Fry the hash browns for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Transfer the cooked hash browns onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Homemade McDonald’s Hash Browns: Crispy, Golden Perfection
Hash browns are an iconic breakfast staple, especially when paired with eggs, bacon, or a hot cup of coffee. While you can easily find them in most diners or fast-food restaurants, there’s something uniquely satisfying about making your own hash browns at home. If you’re craving that signature McDonald’s hash brown taste — crispy, golden, and perfectly fried — then this homemade version will not disappoint. Here’s everything you need to know about crafting these delicious hash browns in your own kitchen, and why it’s the best version to make.
A Brief History of Hash Browns
Hash browns have become synonymous with classic American breakfasts, although their origins are a bit tricky to trace. While the exact history is debatable, it’s believed that hash browns originated from the French “pommes de terre rissolées,” which is essentially potatoes fried in oil or butter. In the U.S., the term “hash” was first used to describe chopped meat and vegetables, and it wasn’t long before potatoes found their place in the mix.
The McDonald’s version, which has become a favorite among fast-food lovers, helped define what we think of as a hash brown today. With its perfectly crispy exterior and tender interior, McDonald’s hash browns set a standard that many strive to recreate — and with this recipe, you’ll achieve that same crispy, golden perfection in your own kitchen.
Why Homemade McDonald’s Hash Browns Are the Best
There are countless reasons to make your hash browns at home rather than purchasing them pre-made or settling for fast food. Let’s take a closer look at why homemade McDonald’s-style hash browns are the best option.
1. Full Control Over Ingredients
One of the primary benefits of making your own hash browns is that you control every ingredient that goes into the recipe. Many commercially made hash browns are loaded with preservatives, additives, and sometimes unhealthy oils. When you make your hash browns from scratch, you get to choose high-quality ingredients such as fresh potatoes, a small amount of cornstarch, and a neutral vegetable oil for frying.
This means you can avoid unnecessary chemicals and make sure everything you’re eating is fresh and wholesome. Plus, you can adjust the seasoning to your personal taste, whether you prefer them mild or with an extra kick of spice.
2. Achieve the Perfect Texture
The hallmark of a good hash brown is its texture: crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside. Many people struggle to recreate this balance at home, but with a few simple tips, it’s easy to get it just right. Squeezing out excess moisture from the grated potatoes and using cornstarch to help bind everything together creates that perfect crispiness. By frying them in hot oil, you’re ensuring they cook evenly, becoming golden and crispy just like the ones from McDonald’s.
3. Customizable to Your Taste
Another fantastic thing about making hash browns from scratch is the versatility. Want to add a bit of garlic or onion powder for an extra layer of flavor? You can. Feel like experimenting with herbs like rosemary or thyme? Go for it! Making hash browns at home gives you the freedom to customize the flavor profile exactly how you like it. You can even add a bit of grated cheese, paprika, or smoked salt for some unique twists.
4. No Waiting in Line at a Drive-Thru
Let’s face it: the convenience of fast food is tempting, but waiting in line at a drive-thru or dealing with crowds can be frustrating. With this recipe, you can have crispy, golden hash browns in no time, without the hassle of waiting for your order. It’s the perfect way to start your day without ever leaving the house.
5. Affordable and Budget-Friendly
While buying fast food hash browns can quickly add up, making them at home is much more budget-friendly. A few simple ingredients like potatoes, oil, and seasonings are all you need to create a batch of crispy hash browns. The recipe makes enough to serve four people, so it’s an affordable way to enjoy a delicious breakfast without breaking the bank.
The Health Benefits of Homemade Hash Browns
While hash browns are often seen as an indulgent breakfast food, they can still be a healthier option when made at home with fresh ingredients.
Low in Fat (When Made Right)
When you make your hash browns at home, you can control the amount of oil you use for frying. Using just enough vegetable oil ensures that your hash browns remain crispy without absorbing too much fat. Opt for healthier oils like avocado or olive oil to lower the saturated fat content and enhance the overall flavor. By making your own hash browns, you avoid the heavy and sometimes greasy texture of restaurant-style hash browns.
Packed with Potatoes
Potatoes are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They provide a good amount of Vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Although hash browns are typically a side dish, they’re still a good way to include this nutrient-packed vegetable in your diet. To make them even healthier, you can try adding extra vegetables like onions or bell peppers.
No Artificial Additives
Store-bought hash browns often contain preservatives and artificial additives to extend their shelf life. By making your own hash browns, you can avoid these additives and keep the dish as fresh and natural as possible. You’ll know exactly what’s going into your food, which is a great way to stay on top of your health and nutrition.
How to Serve Your Homemade McDonald’s-Style Hash Browns
Homemade hash browns are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next breakfast or brunch:
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Classic Breakfast: Serve your hash browns alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or sausage links for a traditional breakfast spread.
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Breakfast Sandwich: Use your homemade hash browns as the base of a breakfast sandwich. Add a fried egg, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats for a satisfying meal.
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Brunch Buffet: If you’re hosting a brunch, homemade hash browns will be the star of the table. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, avocado toast, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
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Topped with Sauces: You can also enjoy your hash browns with a drizzle of ketchup or hot sauce. For something more decadent, try a hollandaise sauce or a dollop of sour cream.
How to Store Leftovers
If you’ve made a large batch of hash browns and have leftovers, don’t worry. They store well in the fridge and can be reheated later. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a hot skillet or bake them in the oven until they’re crispy again.
If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze your hash browns. Just let them cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or container and store them for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
Homemade McDonald’s-style hash browns are a delicious, simple, and healthier alternative to fast food. By making them yourself, you can enjoy all the crispy, golden goodness of the classic version, but with the added benefits of controlling the ingredients and customizing the flavors to your liking. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, these hash browns are sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you’ll be able to create the perfect crispy hash browns every time. So why wait? Try making these homemade hash browns today, and enjoy a satisfying, nostalgic breakfast that will leave you wanting more!