Ready to transform your breakfast routine? This Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake is everything a comfort-food-loving heart could desire: golden, crunchy edges, gooey cheese stretching through every bite, and a flavor that’ll make you swoon. It’s a morning classic that skips the fuss and delivers maximum deliciousness on a single sheet pan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbeatable Texture: Golden and fabulously crispy edges with a cheesy, tender middle—each bite of this Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake is pure hashbrown bliss.
- Easy, One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together on a single sheet pan—no frying, no splatters, just simple prep and effortless cleanup.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters light up at the sight (and smell!) of this crowd-pleaser, making breakfast or brunch feel extra special.
- Versatile Any-Time Dish: Serve it at breakfast, bring it to a brunch, or even make it as an easy dinner side—this recipe truly fits any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake such a star is how it turns just a handful of simple ingredients into something spectacular. Each one has an important role, from the heartiness of the potatoes to the savory punch of cheddar and the subtle richness from the olive oil.
- Frozen hash browns (16 oz bag): These are the hero of the dish—no shredding or squeezing necessary, just open the bag and go!
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a hint of richness and helps those hashbrowns develop ultra-crispy, crave-worthy edges.
- Garlic powder: Delivers savory, aromatic depth that lifts the entire bake (and makes your kitchen smell dreamy).
- Kosher salt and black pepper: The basics, but absolutely essential for optimal flavor in every forkful.
- Large egg, beaten: Binds everything together, so the bake holds its shape and gets an irresistibly fluffy interior.
- Cheddar cheese, grated: Melts into pockets of gooey goodness—sharp cheddar brings the best cheesy kick, but you can mix things up if you like.
Variations
This Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake is totally customizable—think of it as your breakfast blank canvas! Change things up based on what’s in your fridge, your dietary needs, or simply your mood.
- Add-ins: Mix in cooked bacon, diced ham, or sautéed onions and peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, Swiss, or a blend—whatever melts your heart (and your hashbrowns).
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to give things a little kick.
- Make it Vegan: Use plant-based egg substitute and dairy-free shredded cheese; just be sure to check that your hashbrowns are vegan too!
How to Make Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F—this high heat is the secret to achieving that shatteringly crisp hashbrown exterior. While the oven gets to temperature, line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean-up and a nonstick surface.
Step 2: Mix It Up
In a medium bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, olive oil, and garlic powder. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then add the beaten egg and the grated cheddar cheese. Toss the mixture until everything is evenly coated and every shred of hashbrown gets a touch of that cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Spread and Bake
Spread the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, smoothing it into a single even layer—not too thick! Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake is gloriously golden, with irresistibly crunchy edges and bubbly cheese throughout.
Step 4: Slice & Serve
Once it’s beautifully browned, let it cool for just a couple minutes to help everything set. Then cut into squares and serve hot—preferably with your favorite toppings!
Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake
- Thaw for Extra Crisp: If you have time, let the frozen hashbrowns thaw and blot them dry with a paper towel—this removes excess moisture and yields even crispier results!
- Spread Thin for Crunch: For maximum crunch, don’t pile the mixture too thick on the pan; a thin, even layer is the magic trick.
- Edge Watcher: Keep an eye on those edges—the cheese there crisps up dramatically, so don’t be afraid to grab those extra-golden sections for yourself.
- Oven Placement: For the crispiest texture, bake on a lower rack so the direct heat hits the bottom for that irresistible crunchy base.
How to Serve Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake
Garnishes
Top your Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake with fresh chopped chives, green onions, or a scatter of parsley for brightness and color. A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of hot sauce on each square adds a creamy or spicy punch that makes each bite pop.
Side Dishes
Pair it with scrambled or poached eggs and a crisp green salad for a balanced brunch. It’s also fantastic next to a platter of fresh fruit, bacon, or breakfast sausage. Trust me—your breakfast spread will look like you spent hours, but only took minutes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, cut the bake into small squares or triangles and serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy finger food. Try layering a slice with avocado and a fried egg for a hearty breakfast stack, or even tuck into a breakfast sandwich with your favorite fillings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake has cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It stays surprisingly crisp and tasty—the perfect grab-and-go breakfast for busy mornings.
Freezing
Want to save portions for later? Let the bake cool completely, then wrap individual pieces tightly and pop them in the freezer for up to a month. A quick thaw in the fridge overnight is all it takes before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven at 375°F until warmed through and crispy again (about 8–10 minutes). Microwaving works in a pinch, but a hot oven always brings the crunch back.
FAQs
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Can I make Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the mixture a day in advance, spread it on your baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for the best crispy texture.
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Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
You can! Just peel and grate the potatoes, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean towel—too much water will prevent crispiness.
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What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
Feel free to experiment: Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend all taste amazing and melt beautifully in this bake.
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Does this recipe work as a brunch or dinner side?
Definitely! The Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake is a star at any time—serve it with eggs in the morning, or pair it with roasted meats and vegetables for a comforting side at dinner.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort with a glorious golden crunch, you have to try this Cheesy Crispy Hashbrown Bake. It’s quick, it’s satisfying, and it honestly turns any breakfast or brunch into something memorable. Gather your loved ones, pour the coffee, and dig into a pan of pure joy!
Print
Cheesy Crispy Sheet Pan Hashbrowns Recipe
- Prep Time: 5m
- Cook Time: 30m
- Total Time: 35m
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy sheet pan hash browns are the perfect easy and delicious side dish for breakfast or brunch. Made with frozen hash browns, cheese, and a hint of garlic, they are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (16 oz) bag frozen hash browns
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare Hash Browns Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the hash browns, olive oil, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Add the beaten egg and grated cheese, and toss everything together.
- Bake: Spread the mixture evenly on a rimmed baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven until crispy, about 30 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and enjoy the crispy hash browns hot from the oven.
Notes
- You can customize these hash browns by adding in diced onions, bell peppers, or cooked bacon for extra flavor.
- Ensure the hash browns are spread out in a thin, even layer on the baking sheet for maximum crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
