Loaded Hash Browns

Introduction

Loaded Hash Browns are a savory, crispy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner. These hash browns are packed with all the best toppings—cheese, bacon, green onions, and a rich sour cream drizzle. The crispy exterior and tender interior create the ideal base for this comforting and flavorful dish.

I first made these Loaded Hash Browns when I wanted to create something hearty for a weekend breakfast, and they turned out to be a big hit. The combination of crispy, golden hash browns with gooey cheese and the savory bacon makes each bite absolutely irresistible. The sour cream drizzle adds a nice, creamy finish that ties everything together perfectly.

Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them on a lazy weekend morning, Loaded Hash Browns will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone coming back for more. They’re a simple yet flavorful dish that’s always sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Family gatherings
• Brunch parties
• A hearty side dish
• Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Hash Browns

Here’s why Loaded Hash Browns will become your new go-to:

• Crispy and Tender Texture: The crispy exterior contrasts with the soft interior, giving you the perfect bite.
• Loaded with Flavor: The combination of melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions takes these hash browns to the next level.
• Versatile: You can customize your hash browns with different toppings like sautéed mushrooms or avocado for even more variety.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and just a few steps, this dish is as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
• Comforting: The rich flavors and hearty ingredients make this a comforting and satisfying meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Loaded Hash Browns:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ½ cup sour cream
• Optional: Hot sauce for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Russet Potatoes: These potatoes have a high starch content, making them perfect for getting crispy on the outside while staying tender inside.
• Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of cheddar complements the potatoes beautifully, melting into the crispy hash browns for an irresistible flavor.
• Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
• Green Onions: Fresh green onions bring a pop of color and a slight bite that balances the richness of the dish.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Loaded Hash Browns:

Prepare the Hash Browns:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and grate the russet potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out any excess moisture.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the grated potatoes in an even layer. Press them down gently with a spatula and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
4. Season the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are crispy, season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure they’re seasoned well.

Add the Toppings and Bake:

5. Layer the Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the hash browns, mixing gently. Transfer the hash brown mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the hash browns. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the hash browns are cooked through.
7. Finish with Toppings: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top and drizzle with sour cream. Add hot sauce if desired for an extra kick.

How to Serve Loaded Hash Browns

Loaded Hash Browns can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Breakfast Dish: Serve them with eggs, either scrambled or fried, for a complete breakfast.
• As a Side Dish: Pair them with meats like steak, grilled chicken, or pork chops for a hearty meal.
• For Brunch: These loaded hash browns make a great addition to a brunch spread, alongside other breakfast staples like pancakes or muffins.
• As a Party Snack: Cut them into squares and serve as an appetizer or snack at your next gathering.
• With Extra Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, or even jalapeños for extra flavor.

Additional Tips for Loaded Hash Browns

Here are some tips to ensure your Loaded Hash Browns are perfect every time:

• Squeeze Out the Moisture: Be sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes before cooking them. This helps them crisp up better in the skillet.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet works great for achieving a crispy exterior and even cooking. If you don’t have one, any oven-safe skillet will do.
• Add More Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese throughout the cooking process for a gooey, cheesy result.
• Customize the Toppings: You can add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a fried egg on top for variation.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the hash browns and bake them ahead of time. Reheat them in the oven or a skillet before serving.

Recipe Variations for Loaded Hash Browns

Here are 10 variations you can try for Loaded Hash Browns:

• Bacon and Gouda Hash Browns: Swap the cheddar cheese for smoked gouda for a richer, smokier flavor.
• Veggie Loaded Hash Browns: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Hash Browns: Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle some chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Sausage Hash Browns: Replace the bacon with cooked breakfast sausage for a different flavor.
• Cheesy Potato Skins Hash Browns: Add crumbled potato skins and extra cheese to the mix for a loaded potato skins twist.
• Pesto Hash Browns: Drizzle pesto over the top of the hash browns before serving for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Hash Browns: Add shredded buffalo chicken on top for a spicy, tangy flavor.
• Crispy Hash Brown Casserole: Mix the hash brown mixture with cream of chicken soup and bake until golden for a creamy casserole version.
• Southwestern Hash Browns: Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes for a Southwestern flair.
• BBQ Hash Browns: Top the hash browns with pulled pork and drizzle with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Loaded Hash Browns

• Freezing: These hash browns freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Storage: Store leftover hash browns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven for the best texture.

Special Equipment for Loaded Hash Browns

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Loaded Hash Browns easier:

• Box Grater or Food Processor: For quickly grating the potatoes.
• Large Skillet: A large skillet or cast-iron skillet is perfect for cooking the hash browns to get them crispy.
• Baking Dish: An oven-safe baking dish to finish off the loaded hash browns in the oven.
• Spatula: A spatula will help you press down the potatoes in the skillet and flip them easily.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions for Loaded Hash Browns

1. Can I use frozen hash browns?
   Yes, you can use frozen hash browns for a shortcut. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding the toppings and baking.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the hash browns in advance and bake them when ready. You can also freeze the assembled dish and bake it later.
3. How do I know when the hash browns are done?
   The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the hash browns should be crispy and golden on the edges.
4. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable-based toppings or add more vegetables for flavor.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check that any pre-made ingredients, like the sour cream or bacon, are gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the classic flavors of elote (Mexican street corn) into a refreshing pasta salad. This dish features tender pasta mixed with roasted corn, creamy mayo, tangy lime, and a sprinkle of chili powder, all topped off with crumbled cotija cheese. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any summer gathering.

I first made this salad when I was looking for something unique to bring to a family cookout, and it was a hit right away. The combination of the smoky, sweet corn with the creamy dressing and zesty lime is absolutely irresistible. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s full of bright, bold flavors. And the cotija cheese adds the perfect salty finish.

Whether served cold or at room temperature, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, making it the ultimate side for any summer event or casual get-together.