The sound of sweet potatoes sizzling in a hot skillet always brings back fond memories of cozy mornings at home. As soon as that golden crust forms, the enticing aroma of sautéed garlic and onions fills the air, promising a delightful meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes. While I love a good stack of traditional hash browns, there’s something uniquely satisfying about transforming sweet potatoes into crispy, mouthwatering patties.
These Sweet Potato Hash Browns are not just a healthier alternative; they’re a flavorful twist that will make your breakfast or brunch stand out. Packed with nutrients and a hint of comfort, they whip up easily, and the bonus? They impress without the stress. Whether you're looking for a way to spice up your weekday breakfast or want a wholesome side for dinner, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. Join me in discovering how a humble sweet potato can turn into an absolute crowd-pleaser!
Why You'll Love This Sweet Potato Hash Browns
- These Sweet Potato Hash Browns are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a tasty meal with minimal effort.
- The delightful fusion of sweet potatoes, onions, and garlic creates an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- They are versatile enough to serve as a delicious breakfast, brunch, or even a side dish with dinner, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Plus, their vibrant color and crispy texture make for an appealing presentation that will impress friends and family alike.
Sweet Potato Hash Browns Ingredients
• Ready to make these delicious Sweet Potato Hash Browns? Here's everything you need!
For the Hash Brown Mixture
- Sweet potatoes – 2 medium, peeled and grated for a naturally sweet flavor and crispy texture.
- Yellow onion – 1 medium, finely chopped to add a savory depth to the patties.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced to infuse the hash browns with aromatic richness.
- Eggs – 2 large, acting as a binder to hold everything together.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
For Cooking
- Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tbsp, providing a healthy fat and preventing sticking while frying.
How to Make Sweet Potato Hash Browns
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Grate the sweet potatoes using a box grater or food processor. This texture creates the perfect base for your hash browns. Aim for about 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled first for a smooth, sweet flavor.
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Remove excess moisture by squeezing the grated sweet potatoes in a clean kitchen towel. This step is essential for achieving that crispy finish! Aim for a drier mixture for optimal frying.
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Combine the grated sweet potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir until everything is well incorporated, making sure each ingredient adds its flavor to the mixture.
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Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering, which should take about 2 minutes. This is the key to a golden, crispy exterior on your hash browns!
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Form small patties—about half an inch thick—from the mixture and gently place them in the skillet without overcrowding. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that irresistible crunch.
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Cook for about 5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip gently to continue cooking for another 5 minutes, achieving crispy perfection on both sides.
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Transfer the finished patties to paper towels to drain any excess oil and serve them warm. Enjoy the crispiness that will make your meal memorable!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or avocado for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato Hash Browns are perfect for busy weekdays! You can prepare the grated sweet potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality and prevent browning, squeeze out excess moisture and refrigerate the mixture right after prepping. When you're ready to enjoy these tasty patties, simply mix in the eggs, season with salt and pepper, and pan-fry as directed. With this make-ahead method, you'll have a delightful, hassle-free meal ready in no time, ensuring that you can savor each bite of these crispy hash browns without the morning rush!
Sweet Potato Hash Browns Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Sweet Potato Hash Browns and customize them to your taste!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a zesty boost that wakes up your palate.
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Veggie Power: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for an extra punch of nutrients and colors. Sauté them slightly before melding into your hash brown mix for enhanced flavors.
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Cheesy Goodness: Fold in ½ cup of shredded cheese such as cheddar or feta for a rich, savory twist that melts beautifully when cooked.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or parsley for a refreshing layer of flavor. Just a tablespoon of finely chopped herbs can brighten up these hash browns spectacularly.
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Sweet Surprise: For a hint of sweetness, add a teaspoon of maple syrup to the mixture. It balances perfectly with the savory ingredients for a delightful contrast.
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Whole Grain Crunch: Substitute half the sweet potatoes with cooked quinoa or brown rice for added texture and a nutty flavor, making these hash browns even more filling.
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Breakfast Boost: Top your cooked hash browns with a fried egg or avocado slices for an upgraded breakfast. The creaminess of the egg or avocado complements their crispiness wonderfully.
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Asian Flair: Stir in a teaspoon of soy sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds for an East-meets-West experience that’s sure to surprise your taste buds!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Hash Browns?
The warmth of crispy hash browns pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes that enhance your meal experience.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh, creamy avocado adds a delightful richness that complements the sweet, crispy hash browns beautifully.
- Sunny-Side Up Eggs: The runny yolk creates a luscious sauce that mingles perfectly with the sweet potato flavor. A classic breakfast pairing!
- Sautéed Spinach: Bright, sautéed spinach brings a touch of greenery and earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the hash browns.
- Fresh Salsa: A zesty, homemade salsa adds a burst of flavor and freshness, making each bite exciting and vibrant. Serve it on the side for a refreshing dip!
- Crispy Bacon: The smoky, savory taste of crispy bacon provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness, creating a perfect breakfast harmony.
- Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad can balance the meal's richness, adding a sweet and tangy element alongside your hash browns.
- Herb Yogurt Sauce: A cool yogurt sauce infused with fresh herbs brings a tangy brightness that lifts the overall dish, enhancing every bite.
- Coffee or Herbal Tea: Pair your meal with a piping hot cup of coffee or soothing herbal tea for a comforting drink that completes your breakfast experience.
Each of these pairings not only complements the Sweet Potato Hash Browns but also elevates the meal into something truly special!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Hash Browns
Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in a cool, dry place for up to 2 hours. They're best enjoyed fresh and warm right off the skillet.
Fridge: Place Sweet Potato Hash Browns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through for best results.
Freezer: Freeze cooled patties in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To revive frozen hash browns, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Enjoy!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Sweet Potato Hash Browns, always squeeze out excess moisture from the grated sweet potatoes to achieve a crispier texture.
- If you notice the hash browns are sticking to the skillet, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties for optimal frying.
- Form patties that are about half an inch thick; this thickness helps them cook evenly and develop a delicious crunch.
- Remember to cook them in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of frying.
Sweet Potato Hash Browns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth and vibrant in color. Smaller to medium-sized sweet potatoes tend to be sweeter and have a better texture for hash browns.
What is the best way to store leftover Sweet Potato Hash Browns?
To keep your leftover Sweet Potato Hash Browns fresh, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for the best results, allowing for that crispiness to return!
Can I freeze Sweet Potato Hash Browns?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first let your cooked hash browns cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in a heated skillet until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
What do I do if my hash browns are mushy?
Very good question! If your Sweet Potato Hash Browns turn out mushy, it’s likely due to excess moisture. To solve this, be sure to thoroughly squeeze out the moisture from the grated sweet potatoes before mixing. Also, try cooking them in smaller batches to prevent steaming, which can contribute to a softer texture.
Are Sweet Potato Hash Browns suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, these hash browns are naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting ingredients like sour cream when serving. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check that your olive oil is prepared in a gluten-free facility. This recipe can also easily accommodate vegetarians or serve as a wholesome side for everyone at the table!
Can pets eat Sweet Potato Hash Browns?
While sweet potatoes are safe for dogs in moderation, the added ingredients like garlic and onions are harmful. It's best not to share your hash browns with your furry friends, but cooked plain sweet potatoes can be a delightful treat for them!
Sweet Potato Hash Browns
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grate the sweet potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
- Remove excess moisture by squeezing the grated sweet potatoes in a clean kitchen towel.
- Combine the grated sweet potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Form small patties—about half an inch thick—from the mixture and gently place them in the skillet.
- Cook for about 5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip to cook another 5 minutes.
- Transfer the finished patties to paper towels to drain any excess oil and serve warm.
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