This Cheesy Egg Hash Browns dish is a tasty mix of crispy hash browns, gooey cheese, and fluffy eggs. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch and easy to whip up!
You can’t go wrong with this combo! I love how the cheese gets all melty and gooey. It’s my go-to dish to impress friends—because who doesn’t love cheese and potatoes? 🧀🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns make preparation easy. If you prefer fresh, you can grate potatoes and rinse them to remove excess starch. Just be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible!
Onion: Diced onion adds great flavor. You could substitute green onions or shallots for a milder taste. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it entirely.
Bacon: Using cooked bacon adds a nice crunch. You can swap it with turkey bacon or even crumbled sausage for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, try adding mushrooms or diced bell peppers.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is the classic choice, but feel free to mix in pepper jack or mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Eggs: Large eggs work perfectly here. If you’re making this for guests with dietary restrictions, egg substitutes like flax eggs or silken tofu can also fit well.
How Do I Get Crispy Hash Browns?
The key to crispy hash browns is ensuring the moisture is gone. After thawing, use a kitchen towel to squeeze out excess water, which helps them crisp up better. Here’s a quick guide:
- Heat the skillet before adding hash browns; this sets the crispiness.
- Spread the hash browns evenly, and don’t stir too much! Let them sit to get that golden crust.
- Press them down gently with a spatula—this helps with even cooking.
Cooking over medium heat lets them brown nicely without burning. You’ll love the delightful crunch they bring to the dish!
Cheesy Egg Hash Browns
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar and mozzarella mix)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Estimated Time:
This delicious dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your hash browns!
2. Sauté the Onions:
In an oven-safe skillet (a cast iron skillet works great!), heat your butter or oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. The smell will be amazing!
3. Add the Hash Browns:
Next, add your thawed hash browns to the skillet. Spread them out evenly across the pan, then season with salt and pepper. Use a spatula to gently press down on the hash browns to help them compact a bit.
4. Cook Until Crispy:
Let the hash browns cook without stirring for about 8-10 minutes. You want the bottom to become crispy and golden brown. It’s okay to peek occasionally, but try not to disturb them too much!
5. Add Bacon and Cheese:
Once the bottom is nice and golden, sprinkle the chopped bacon all over the hash browns. Then, evenly spread the shredded cheese on top for that delicious melty goodness.
6. Crack the Eggs:
Carefully crack the eggs into the skillet, spacing them out so each egg has its own little spot on top of the cheese and hash brown mixture.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 8-12 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking and the cheese is beautifully melted. Enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
8. Final Touches:
After taking the skillet out of the oven, season the eggs with a little more salt and pepper if desired. Don’t forget to garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color and added flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your cheesy egg hash browns are ready to be served! Enjoy them directly from the skillet, and dig in while everything is hot and delicious!
Can I Use Fresh Hash Browns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh shredded potatoes! Just be sure to rinse them to remove excess starch, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible before cooking. This will help them crisp up beautifully.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon substitute, try turkey bacon for a leaner option or use crumbled sausage for added flavor. For a vegetarian dish, consider mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
How Do I Properly Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave, and consider adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based cheese, tofu or chickpea eggs as a substitute for the eggs, and omit the bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Enjoy a delicious, dairy-free version!
