This is how to cook frozen hash browns in an air fryer, slow cooker, baked in an oven on a sheet pan or on the stove in a skillet. Crispy frozen shredded potatoes are a cheap breakfast served with eggs.
If you’re a fan of crispy hash browns but don’t want the hassle of making them from scratch, cooking frozen hash browns are a convenient and delicious alternative. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick breakfast or a side dish for dinner, these bags couldn’t be easier. We’ll guide you through the steps to achieve perfectly golden brown frozen shredded potatoes many different ways. (affiliate links present)
How to Cook Frozen Air Fryer Hash Browns
Ok so this is the way we prefer over all the others, but we will discuss them all. 😉 I love extra crispy, and it is also a great way to brown and melt a layer of cheddar cheese to the top a few minutes at the end. Your choice. There are 3 different types you can find at the store, bagged, and can be cooked right out of the freezer; frozen hash brown patties, shredded and cubed.
The most popular would be air fryer frozen hash browns I would say and you can see here below. In that post we also discuss how long to air fry the patty versions which take half as long and come out just like McDonalds! If you want the larger chunks, more like diced, follow our air fryer breakfast potatoes steps.
Slow Cooker Frozen Hash Browns
Ok so I use these all the time to make our ever so popular Crockpot potato soup with frozen hashbrowns dinner. OMG this makes the prep work so much easier and since everything softens and basically purees in the end you will never know the difference that they weren’t fresh to begin with.
If you want more of a breakfast item, our Crockpot cheesy potatoes with frozen hashbrowns are always a winner. Especially for Christmas breakfast when you are putting together a buffet with brunch items, this and our Crockpot hashbrown breakfast casserole can pass for both breakfast or lunch really.
I would not recommend trying to cook them as is in a slow cooker since they will cook technically but won’t get crispy at all. By the time they defrost and become warm overall the texture will become mushy and it is really a better option to use the bag as an ingredient in soup or a potato casserole of sorts shared above. 😉
Frozen Hash Browns on the Stove
If using a large skillet, heat it over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully transfer the amount you would like to cook into the skillet. For best results it should be in one layer and not too thick.
- Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping the hash browns gently with a spatula. This step will give them an extra crispiness.
- feel free to season each side to add flavor
- garlic salt and pepper are great selections
- Once your hash browns are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow them to firm up and become even crispier.
- If you want to add a layer of shredded cheese to the top, add it the last 2 minutes with a lid to melt nicely.
Loaded Hash browns
Whether it’s cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses, adding shredded cheese to the top can create a gooey and comforting dish. You can add meat inside too like our Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole. Sprinkle it on top during the cooking process and let it melt to perfection.
- Finely chopped onions and potatoes are a savory and slightly selection. Sauté them in a skillet until they become translucent before mixing them with the shredded potatoes.
- Colorful bell peppers can provide a fresh and slightly crunchy texture to your breakfast dish. Dice them and sauté along with the onions for added flavor.
- Crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory element to it. Cook the bacon separately, crumble or chop it, and then mix it into the shredded potatoes before cooking.
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro can bring a burst of freshness and aroma to your dish.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or sprinkle some chili powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Add minced or powdered garlic to your hash browns can impart a delightful flavor. Mix it in with the shredded potatoes before cooking or sprinkle garlic powder over the top while they’re cooking.
- Add some nutritious greens into the mix by tossing in some fresh, frozen spinach or kale. Sauté them briefly before mixing them with the shredded potatoes.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. This adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the crispy texture of the hash browns.
Remember to adjust the cooking times and methods accordingly when incorporating these additional ingredients. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile and enjoy a delicious twist on classic hash browns.
Sheet Pan Frozen Hash Browns
Frozen hash browns in the oven has never been easier. Especially if you are cooking another breakfast favorite like our no peel hard boiled eggs in a casserole dish, just pop these in on another rack by; Preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This temperature will ensure that your hash browns cook evenly and develop a crispy texture.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the hash browns from sticking to the pan and make clean up a breeze.
- Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between them so they can cook evenly.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top. The oil will help them crisp up and add flavor. You can adjust the amount of oil based on your preference, but a tablespoon or two should suffice for a 12-ounce bag of shredded frozen potatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the top again to enhance their flavor. You can also add other spices or herbs according to your taste.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake in the oven for about 20 to 25 minutes until crispy.
- The exact cook time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the amount. Keep an eye on them, and when they turn a beautiful golden brown color, they’re ready to be enjoyed.
- If you want to add a layer of shredded cheese to the top, do so during the last 5 minutes!
Sheet pan hash browns are a convenient and time-saving option that delivers delicious results. By following these simple steps, you can achieve golden brown, crispy hash browns without much effort. You can use the oven to add them into your 5 Ingredient Hash Brown Casserole too!
So the next time you have frozen hash browns in your freezer, grab a baking sheet, some parchment paper, and get ready to enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal!
