Air Fryer Cheddar Hash Browns Recipe

I’ve always had a soft spot for crispy, golden hash browns, especially when they’re loaded with cheesy goodness.

There’s just something about that perfect crunch on the outside and soft, melty interior that makes breakfast feel like a warm hug.

This air fryer cheddar hash browns recipe came about on a chilly weekend when I was craving comfort food but didn’t want to deal with a greasy skillet or a long cleanup.

After a bit of experimenting, I landed on this simple, foolproof method that delivers restaurant-quality hash browns right from my air fryer.

The cheddar adds a sharp, savory kick, and the air fryer ensures they’re crispy without being heavy.

Whether you’re making these for a lazy Sunday brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, this recipe is a keeper. Let’s get into why this dish will become your new go-to!

Read Also: Air Fryer Morning Frittata Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cheddar Hash Browns Recipe

These air fryer cheddar hash browns are a breakfast game plan that checks all the boxes: quick, delicious, and minimal mess.

The air fryer gives you that perfect crispy texture without drowning the potatoes in oil, while the cheddar cheese melts into every bite, adding a rich, savory depth.

They’re versatile enough to pair with eggs, bacon, or even a salad for a lighter meal, and they’re ready in under 30 minutes.

Plus, the recipe is forgiving, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll nail it.

• Crispy Without the Grease: The air fryer creates a golden crust without the need for deep frying.
• Cheesy Perfection: Sharp cheddar melts into the potatoes, giving every bite a gooey, flavorful punch.
• Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, you’re done in about 25 minutes.
• Customizable: Add spices, herbs, or other cheeses to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these crispy bites.

Read Also: Air Fryer Classic French Fries Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create air fryer cheddar hash browns that are bursting with flavor.

You likely have most of these items at home already!

• 4 medium russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs or 680g), peeled
• 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) onion powder
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• Cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)

Read Also: Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan Chips Recipe

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need a ton of fancy gadgets to make these air fryer cheddar hash browns, just a few kitchen staples to get the job done.

• Air fryer (at least 5-quart capacity recommended)
• Box grater or food processor with grating attachment
• Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and measuring spoons
• Spatula for mixing
• Tongs for handling hot hash browns
• Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)

Read Also: Air Fryer Simple Baked Potatoes Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Air Fryer Cheddar Hash Browns

Making these air fryer cheddar hash browns is straightforward, but a little attention to detail goes a long way.

Follow these steps for crispy, cheesy perfection.

1. Prepare the Potatoes

• Peel the russet potatoes using a vegetable peeler to remove all skin.
• Grate the potatoes using the large holes of a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment. Aim for even, medium-length shreds.
• Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze tightly over a sink or bowl to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for crispy hash browns, so don’t rush it—keep squeezing until the potatoes feel dry.
• Transfer the drained potatoes to a large mixing bowl.

2. Mix the Hash Brown Mixture

• Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, beaten egg, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the grated potatoes.
• Drizzle in the olive oil to help bind the mixture and enhance crispiness.
• Use a spatula to mix everything thoroughly until the cheese and seasonings are evenly distributed. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not feel wet.
• If the mixture feels too loose, add an extra teaspoon of flour, but avoid overdoing it to keep the texture light.

3. Shape the Hash Browns

• Scoop about 1/4 cup (60g) of the potato mixture and form it into a patty about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick. Press firmly to ensure it holds together but don’t compact it too tightly.
• Repeat until all the mixture is shaped into patties, aiming for 8–10 patties depending on size.
• Place the patties on a plate or tray as you work, ensuring they don’t overlap.

4. Preheat and Prep the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes, if your model requires preheating.
• Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Alternatively, line the basket with parchment paper cut to fit, ensuring there’s enough airflow around the edges.
• Place 4–5 patties in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each for air circulation. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

5. Air Fry the Hash Browns

• Cook the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through using tongs. Check at the 10-minute mark for golden-brown crispiness.
• If cooking in batches, place the cooked hash browns on a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you cook the remaining patties.
• Repeat until all patties are cooked, reapplying cooking spray to the basket as needed.

6. Serve Immediately

• Transfer the cooked hash browns to a serving plate using tongs.
• Serve hot for the best texture and flavor, as the cheese is meltiest right out of the air fryer.
• Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra black pepper for a pop of color.

Read Also: Air Fryer Curly Fries with Paprika Recipe

Tips for The Best Air Fryer Cheddar Hash Browns

These tips will help you achieve crispy, cheesy hash browns every time, even if you’re new to using an air fryer.

• Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated russet potatoes to avoid soggy hash browns.
• Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded, as it melts better and has less starch.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for even browning.
• Press the patties firmly but not too tightly to maintain a light, crispy texture.
• If the patties stick to the basket, use parchment paper or reapply cooking spray between batches.
• For extra crispiness, increase the cooking time by 1–2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
• Taste the mixture before shaping and adjust the kosher salt or black pepper to your preference.

Read Also: Air Fryer Avocado Egg Rolls Recipe

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer cheddar hash browns are versatile enough to shine at breakfast, brunch, or even as a side for dinner. Their crispy exterior and cheesy interior make them a crowd-pleaser alongside a variety of dishes.

• Pair with Deviled Eggs for a classic breakfast spread.
• Serve with Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers for a balanced dinner.
• Add a dollop of Healthy Guacamole for a creamy, fresh contrast.
• Enjoy alongside Easy Chicken Noodle Soup for a cozy meal.
• Complement with a Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint for a light, summery brunch.

Read Also: Healthy Cornbread Recipe

Variations to Try

Switch things up with these creative twists on the classic air fryer cheddar hash browns recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon (2g) of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in 1 tablespoon (3g) of chopped fresh parsley or rosemary.
• Different Cheese: Swap sharp cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a new flavor profile.
• Sweet Potato Version: Replace russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, nutrient-packed option.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

Read Also: Air Fryer Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Storage and Reheating

These air fryer cheddar hash browns are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers to enjoy later with minimal loss of flavor or texture.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, place cooled hash browns in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the hash browns soggy.
• If reheating from frozen, add 1–2 minutes to the air fryer time, checking for crispiness.

Read Also: Air Fryer French Toast Recipe

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 6g

Read Also: Healthy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

The ingredients in these air fryer cheddar hash browns bring more than just flavor—they pack some nutritional perks too.

From the humble potato to the rich cheddar, each component adds something special to your plate.

• Russet Potatoes: Rich in vitamin C and potassium, supporting immune health and muscle function.
• Sharp CheddarCheese: Provides calcium and protein for strong bones and muscle repair.
• Egg: A great source of high-quality protein and choline, which supports brain health.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats that promote heart health.
• Garlic Powder: Offers antioxidants that may boost immunity and reduce inflammation.

Read Also: Air Fryer Chicken Salad Recipe

FAQs About Air Fryer Cheddar Hash Browns

1. Can I Use Frozen Hash Browns Instead of Fresh Potatoes?

Yes, you can use frozen hash browns to save time. Thaw them completely and pat dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture before mixing with the other ingredients. This ensures they crisp up properly in the air fryer.

2. How Do I Prevent the Hash Browns from Falling Apart?

Press the patties firmly when shaping, and ensure the potato mixture isn’t too wet. Squeezing out as much liquid as possible from the grated russet potatoes and using the egg and all-purpose flour as binders will help them hold together.

3. Can I Make These Hash Browns Vegan?

To make vegan air fryer cheddar hash browns, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use vegan cheddar cheese. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

4. Why Are My Hash Browns Not Crispy?

Sogginess usually comes from excess moisture in the potatoes or overcrowding the air fryer. Make sure to squeeze the grated potatoes thoroughly and cook in a single layer with space between patties. Increasing the cooking time by 1–2 minutes can also help.

5. Can I Prep These Hash Browns Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can grate and squeeze the russet potatoes and mix the ingredients up to a day in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. Shape and cook when ready, but note that prepped potatoes may brown slightly.

Read Also: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe

Final Thoughts

These air fryer cheddar hash browns have quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope they find a spot in yours too.

The combination of crispy potatoes and melty cheddar is pure comfort, and the air fryer makes it so easy to whip them up without the fuss of traditional frying.

I love how they pair with just about anything, from a simple fried egg to a full brunch spread.

Give this air fryer cheddar hash browns recipe a try, and let me know in the comments how it turned out or if you added your own twist!

Don’t forget to share with friends who love a good breakfast.

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