There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy hash brown patty. The golden exterior, the tender interior, and that unmistakable potato flavor—it’s a breakfast staple that never gets old. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve tried countless ways to make hash browns, but nothing compares to the magic of an air fryer. It’s quick, mess-free, and delivers that restaurant-quality crunch without the need for excessive oil.
If you’re like me, you probably crave that crispy texture but don’t want to deal with the hassle of frying or the guilt of all that grease. That’s where air fryer hash brown patties come in. They’re a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, even on busy mornings. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or building the ultimate breakfast sandwich, these hash brown patties are sure to become a favorite in your household.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Potatoes: The star of the show! Russet potatoes are my go-to for hash browns because of their high starch content, which helps create that perfect crispy texture. Make sure to shred them finely for even cooking.
Onion: A small amount of finely grated onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the patties. It’s optional, but I highly recommend it for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Egg: This acts as the binding agent, holding the shredded potatoes together so they don’t fall apart during cooking. One large egg is usually enough for this recipe.
Flour: Just a tablespoon or two of all-purpose flour helps absorb excess moisture and gives the patties a slightly firmer texture.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the potatoes. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste.
Cooking Spray or Oil: A light spritz of cooking spray or a brush of oil ensures the patties get that golden, crispy exterior in the air fryer.
Ingredients List
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and shredded
- 1 small onion, finely grated (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil
How to Make Air Fryer Hash Brown Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and shredding the potatoes using a box grater or a food processor. Once shredded, place the potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy hash browns.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded potatoes, grated onion (if using), egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties about ½-inch thick. Make sure they’re compact so they hold their shape during cooking.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures the patties start cooking immediately, which helps with crisping.
Step 5: Cook the Patties
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil. Place the patties in the basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the patties from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve them hot with your favorite breakfast sides or dipping sauces.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Squeeze Out All the Moisture: The key to crispy hash browns is removing as much moisture as possible from the shredded potatoes. Don’t skip this step!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the patties in batches if necessary to ensure they crisp up evenly.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Add garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for a flavor boost.
- Use Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about sticking, place a piece of parchment paper in the air fryer basket before adding the patties.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture and shape the patties the night before. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
FAQs
Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, you can! Thaw the frozen hash browns and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing them with the other ingredients.
How do I store leftover hash brown patties?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or cornstarch.
Why are my hash browns not crispy?
This usually happens if there’s too much moisture in the potatoes. Make sure to squeeze them thoroughly and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Definitely! Add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture for cheesy hash brown patties.
There you have it—crispy, golden air fryer hash brown patties that are easy to make and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!