Crispy Breakfast Hash Browns with Bacon
Satisfy your morning cravings with these irresistible crispy hash browns made from perfectly prepared Yukon Gold or red potatoes. This recipe elevates traditional hash browns by infusing them with the smoky flavor of thick-cut bacon and the sweetness of sautéed onions. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or any hearty meal, this dish is a family favorite that pairs beautifully with a drizzle of gravy or a side of eggs. For the best results, follow my pre-preparation technique to ensure the potatoes achieve an ultra-crispy texture without absorbing too much grease. Enjoy the crunch and flavor in every bite while keeping your kitchen clean with simple preparation steps.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
thick sliced bacon
4 slices (cooked until crisp)
medium prepared potatoes
2 (diced or shredded)
chopped onions or shallots
1/2 cup (fresh, chopped)
salt
to taste (seasoning)
pepper
to taste (seasoning)
Instructions
1
Begin by dicing or shredding the prepared potatoes. For best results, use a box grater or a food processor.
2
In a large non-stick skillet, cook the thick-sliced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
3
If there's excess bacon grease, carefully pour some into a measuring cup, reserving it for later use if needed.
4
Add the chopped onions to the remaining bacon grease in the skillet. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft, translucent, and slightly caramelized, about 4-5 minutes.
5
Once the onions are ready, add the diced or shredded potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine them well with the onions using an egg spatula.
6
Fry the potato mixture, turning it frequently to ensure even cooking. Use caution when flipping to maintain the integrity of the potatoes.
7
If the potatoes begin to stick, add an additional tablespoon of reserved bacon grease or vegetable oil as necessary.
8
Cook the hash browns for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are a beautiful golden brown and crispy on the edges. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
9
Serve the crispy hash browns immediately, garnished with the crumbled bacon on top. Enjoy as is or with a drizzle of gravy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are recommended to achieve the best flavor and crispy texture.
How much bacon is needed?
The recipe calls for 4 slices of thick-sliced bacon.
How should I prepare the potatoes?
You can either dice the potatoes or shred them using a box grater or food processor.
What heat should I use to cook the bacon?
Cook the thick-sliced bacon over medium-high heat until it becomes crispy.
What should I do with the bacon grease?
After cooking the bacon, reserve the grease in a measuring cup to use for sauteing and frying.
How long do I saute the onions?
Saute the chopped onions or shallots for about 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
How long does it take to fry the hash browns?
The potato mixture should be cooked for approximately 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
How can I make the hash browns extra crispy?
Follow the pre-preparation technique mentioned and turn the potatoes frequently while frying.
Can I use shallots instead of onions?
Yes, the recipe allows for either chopped onions or shallots depending on your preference.
What is the best tool for flipping the potatoes?
An egg spatula is recommended to help maintain the integrity of the potatoes while turning.
What if the potatoes start sticking to the pan?
If sticking occurs, add an additional tablespoon of reserved bacon grease or vegetable oil.
How should the finished hash browns be served?
Serve them immediately with the crumbled bacon on top and an optional drizzle of gravy.
Is a non-stick skillet required?
A large non-stick skillet is highly recommended to prevent the potatoes from sticking and ensure even cooking.
Can I use a food processor for the potatoes?
Yes, a food processor is an excellent tool for shredding the potatoes quickly.
What are some recommended sides for this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of eggs or a drizzle of gravy.
How many potatoes are required for this recipe?
The recipe uses 2 medium prepared potatoes.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Yes, it is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or any hearty morning meal.
How do I prevent the hash browns from burning?
Adjust the heat as needed throughout the cooking process and keep the potatoes moving.
What texture should the onions have?
The onions should be soft, translucent, and slightly caramelized before adding the potatoes.
How do I know when the hash browns are done?
They are ready when they reach a beautiful golden brown color and have crispy edges.
Can I use vegetable oil instead of bacon grease?
Yes, vegetable oil can be used if you run out of bacon grease or prefer a different fat.
Should the bacon be drained after cooking?
Yes, place the cooked bacon on a paper towel to drain excess grease before crumbling.
What seasonings are recommended?
The recipe suggests adding salt and pepper to taste.
Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
Yes, it features simple preparation steps and straightforward cooking instructions.
Why are Yukon Gold potatoes preferred?
They are preferred because they achieve an ultra-crispy texture without absorbing too much grease.
When should the bacon be added back to the dish?
The crumbled bacon should be used as a garnish on top of the served hash browns.
How much onion should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of fresh chopped onions or shallots.
Is there a special technique for the potatoes?
A specific pre-preparation technique ensures the potatoes stay crispy rather than greasy.
What heat should I use for frying the potatoes?
Start with medium heat and adjust as necessary to ensure even browning without burning.
Is this a family-friendly recipe?
Yes, it is described as a family favorite that is sure to satisfy morning cravings.