If you want to try something new for your weekend breakfast, make hash browns with sweet potatoes. They’re crispy and delicious, just like regular hash browns, but healthier because of the sweet potatoes. This recipe uses simple salt and pepper for seasoning, but you can add chopped onion, garlic, or shallot for more flavor. You can also sprinkle in spices like garlic powder, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to make it your own.

Enjoy sweet potato hash browns with your favorite breakfast foods! They’re delicious with a sunny-side-up egg and crispy bacon. You can shape them into round patties or cook them in a skillet without a specific shape for a simple, diner-style look.

Ingredients

How to Make Hash Browns

01

Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start to make Cajun Gumbo Recipe.

02

Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin from the sweet potato.

03

Grate the sweet potato using the coarse side of a box grater, or use a food processor with the shredding blade. If you’re using the food processor, you might need to cut the sweet potato into long pieces to fit.

04

Put the shredded sweet potato in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then mix everything well.

05

In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the rest of the olive oil (1 tablespoon) over medium-high heat.

06

Scoop the mixture into the pan using a 1/3 cup measure to shape it into patties.

07

Use a spatula to press each patty down and flatten it.

08

Cook the patties for 6 to 8 minutes in total, flipping them once, until both sides are golden brown. Repeat with the remaining sweet potato mixture, adding more olive oil to the pan if needed. Serve immediately with your favorite breakfast foods.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes. They will still make tasty hash browns, but sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that regular potatoes do not have. The texture will also be slightly different.

Do I need to soak the shredded sweet potatoes before cooking?

No, soaking is not necessary for sweet potatoes. Unlike regular potatoes, they don’t release as much starch. Just make sure to dry the shredded sweet potatoes well using a towel or paper towels before cooking. This helps them cook better and get crispy.

How can I make sure the hash browns are crispy?

To make them crispy, it’s important to dry the shredded sweet potatoes well before cooking. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking. This allows each patty to cook evenly and become crispy. A little extra oil in the pan can also help crisp them up.

Can I prepare the sweet potatoes in advance?

Yes, you can shred the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Just place the shredded pieces in a bowl of water to keep them from turning brown. When you’re ready to cook, drain and dry them thoroughly. This saves time when you’re ready to make the hash browns.

Can I freeze sweet potato hash browns?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked hash browns. Let them cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to eat them, just reheat in a skillet or oven.

How long do sweet potato hash browns last in the fridge?

Sweet potato hash browns can last 3 to 4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. To keep them fresh longer, try reheating them in a skillet or oven to bring back their crispiness.

Can I bake sweet potato hash browns instead of frying?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the hash browns instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to cook both sides evenly.

Can I make sweet potato hash browns in the air fryer?

Yes, you can use an air fryer for sweet potato hash browns. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), then cook the patties for about 10–15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The air fryer will give them a nice crispy texture with less oil.

Are sweet potato hash browns gluten-free?

Yes, sweet potato hash browns are naturally gluten-free because they don’t contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. It’s a great option for people with gluten sensitivities or who are following a gluten-free diet.

Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like vegetable oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil if you prefer. Olive oil is a healthy choice, but any of these oils will work well for cooking and give the hash browns a nice flavor.

How can I make the hash browns spicier?

If you like spicy food, you can add spices like cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce to the sweet potato mixture. This will add a kick of heat and give your hash browns extra flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to the hash browns?

Yes, you can add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly with the sweet potatoes. Adding extra vegetables can give your hash browns more texture and flavor.

Can I use a food processor to shred the sweet potatoes?

Yes, a food processor with a shredding blade is a fast and easy way to shred sweet potatoes. If you’re in a hurry or need to shred a lot, it’s a great option. Just make sure to cut the sweet potato into pieces that fit into the food processor.

How do I know when the hash browns are done cooking?

The hash browns are done when both sides are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes 6 to 8 minutes of cooking time. You can use a spatula to check the color and texture, and flip them if needed.

How thick should I make the patties?

For even cooking and crispy texture, make your patties about 1/2 inch thick. If they are too thick, they might not cook evenly, and if they are too thin, they might burn easily.

Can I make sweet potato hash browns without oil?

While oil helps to make the hash browns crispy and adds flavor, you can cook them without it. They might not be as crispy, but you can still cook them in a non-stick pan or use a small amount of oil for a lighter version.

Can I use pre-shredded sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use pre-shredded sweet potatoes, but fresh ones usually give better results. Pre-shredded sweet potatoes can sometimes be drier, and fresh ones have more flavor. If you’re short on time, though, the pre-shredded option is a good shortcut.

What spices can I add to sweet potato hash browns?

You can add a variety of spices to enhance the flavor. Some great options are garlic powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet and savory mix. Customize it to your taste!

Can I make sweet potato hash browns in a non-stick pan?

Yes, a non-stick pan works great for cooking sweet potato hash browns. It helps prevent them from sticking to the pan, making flipping and cooking easier. If you don’t have a non-stick pan, just make sure to use enough oil.

What should I serve with sweet potato hash browns?

Sweet potato hash browns are perfect with a variety of breakfast foods. Serve them with eggs (any style), crispy bacon, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. They also work well as a side dish for lunch or dinner with grilled meats or a salad.