If you love starting your day with something crispy, flavorful, and a little bit special, this Sweet Potato Hash Browns Recipe is an absolute must-try. These golden, crunchy bites showcase the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes while packing in a delightful blend of spices that cook into a perfectly crispy crust. It’s comfort food with a healthy twist that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and once you taste them, they’ll quickly become your go-to breakfast or brunch favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients you might already have in your kitchen, each playing a key role in creating those perfect crispy hash browns with a burst of flavor and beautiful color.
- 1 ¼ lbs. sweet potatoes: The star ingredient that delivers natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 2 Tbsp. flour: Helps bind the shredded potatoes together for a perfect texture that holds its shape crisp.
- ½ tsp. garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth to balance the sweetness.
- ½ tsp. paprika: Brings a smoky punch and a pop of beautiful red hue.
- ¼ tsp. cumin: Infuses a warm, earthy note that’s surprisingly addictive.
- ¾ tsp. salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the potatoes perfectly.
- ¼ tsp. black pepper: Gives a mild kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder, helping everything come together beautifully.
- 2 Tbsp. butter or oil: For frying, creating that irresistible crispy exterior with a rich flavor.
How to Make Sweet Potato Hash Browns Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
First things first, peel those sweet potatoes. Getting them ready for shredding is the key step to achieving the perfect texture later. You can use a food processor for speed or a handheld cheese grater for a little arm workout, but either way, you’ll want about 6 cups of shredded sweet potato to ensure delicious crispiness with every bite.
Step 2: Make the Batter
Once your sweet potatoes are shredded, combine them in a large bowl with flour and all your spices. Toss everything so each shred is coated evenly. Then, pour in the whisked egg and mix well. This step is where your hash browns gain structure, flavor, and that mouthwatering appeal you’ll love.
Step 3: Cook the Hash Browns
Heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once melted and hot, scoop about ⅓ cup of the potato mixture into the skillet. Make sure to space the hash browns apart so they cook evenly and get that crispy edge on every side. Press them down to about half an inch thick, then let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s time to flip when a beautiful golden crust forms. Repeat with remaining butter and mixture for perfectly crisp hash browns batch after batch.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these golden beauties hot from the skillet with your favorite toppings. They’re best when crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—pure comfort food that’s ready in just 30 minutes!
How to Serve Sweet Potato Hash Browns Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or green onions on top for a burst of fresh color and mild onion flavor. A dollop of tangy sour cream pairs surprisingly well, adding cool creaminess that balances the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Sweet Potato Hash Browns Recipe teams up wonderfully with classic breakfast staples like sunny-side-up eggs, crispy bacon, or sautéed veggies. You can also pair them with steamed greens for a healthier, balanced meal any time of day.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these hash browns into little towers layered with avocado slices and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a fun brunch dish. Or use them as a crispy base for a poached egg and hollandaise sauce to transform your morning routine into a restaurant-worthy experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the hash browns from getting soggy, place a paper towel underneath to absorb any extra moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked sweet potato hash browns by laying them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, and then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen hash browns keep well for up to 2 months and are perfect for busy mornings.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat hash browns in a non-stick skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave. This method helps restore their crispy exterior while warming them through nicely.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes in this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe showcases sweet potatoes for their sweet and colorful twist, you can swap in regular russet potatoes for a more traditional hash brown experience. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different.
Do I need to soak the shredded sweet potatoes before cooking?
Unlike regular potatoes, sweet potatoes don’t require soaking to remove excess starch, so you can skip this step and save time without compromising on crispiness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with flax egg or another plant-based binder and use oil instead of butter for frying. This way, you keep all the flavor and texture while making it vegan-friendly.
What type of skillet works best for cooking?
A cast-iron skillet is ideal for this recipe because it retains heat evenly and helps develop a perfect crust on the hash browns. However, a non-stick pan works just fine if that’s what you have on hand.
How do I know when the hash browns are cooked through?
Look for a deep golden-brown color on both sides and a crispy texture. Cooking 4-5 minutes per side ensures the sweet potatoes are tender inside and satisfyingly crunchy outside.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Hash Browns Recipe is a delightful way to elevate your breakfast or brunch routine with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. The crispy edges, tender centers, and perfectly balanced spices make every bite unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try it and add this new favorite to your recipe rotation—you’re going to love it!
Print
Sweet Potato Hash Browns Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These crispy Sweet Potato Hash Browns are a delicious twist on a breakfast classic, made with shredded sweet potatoes, flavorful spices, and cooked to golden perfection in a skillet. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch, they offer a comforting and nutritious start to your day.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Hash Browns
- 1 ¼ lbs. sweet potatoes (about 2 medium-sized)
- 2 Tbsp. flour
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. paprika
- ¼ tsp. cumin
- ¾ tsp. salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp. black pepper (to taste)
- 1 large egg (whisked)
- 2 Tbsp. butter (or oil)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes using a vegetable peeler, then shred them using a large food processor or a handheld cheese grater. You should have about 6 cups of shredded potatoes at the end of this step.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the shredded sweet potatoes with the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated. Then, pour in the whisked egg and mix thoroughly until all shredded potatoes are covered.
- Cook the Hash Browns: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Using a ⅓ cup measuring cup, scoop out portions of the potato mixture and place them onto the skillet, making sure to cook no more than 3 at once and that they are not touching. Press down each mound with the back of a spatula until they are about ½-inch thick. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, flipping only once a golden crust has formed. Repeat with the remaining butter and potato mixture.
- Serve: Serve the hash browns immediately, optionally garnished with chopped chives and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful sweet potato hash browns!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, ensure the hash browns are pressed thin and cooked over medium heat without overcrowding the skillet.
- You can substitute butter with oil of your choice for a dairy-free option.
- Leftover hash browns can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet to maintain crispness.
- Adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the mixture can enhance the flavor.
