Waffle House Hash Brown Recipe

The Waffle House Hash Browns Recipe brings crispy, golden diner-style potatoes to your kitchen with endless topping options like onions, cheese, and chili. Easy to make and customizable, they’re the perfect breakfast side or comfort food any time of day.

If you’ve ever been to Waffle House, you know their hash browns are legendary. Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and customizable in countless ways, these diner-style potatoes are a must-have breakfast side.

Whether you like them plain and golden or “smothered, covered, and topped,” this Waffle House hash browns recipe will bring the diner experience right to your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy perfection – Golden edges with soft centers.
• Customizable – Add onions, cheese, chili, or anything you like.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick cooking.
• Budget-friendly – Costs less than eating out at Waffle House.
• Diner-style comfort – Tastes just like the classic chain favorite.

Waffle House Hash Browns Ingredients

• Shredded potatoes – Fresh or frozen hash browns work.
• Butter or oil – Helps crisp up the potatoes perfectly.
• Salt – Enhances flavor.
• Black pepper – Adds a little kick.
• Optional toppings – Onions, cheese, jalapeños, chili, mushrooms, tomatoes, or ham (Waffle House style)

How To Make Waffle House Hash Browns

Step One: If using fresh potatoes, shred and rinse in cold water. Pat dry with a towel to remove excess starch.

Step Two: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat with butter or oil. Spread shredded potatoes in an even layer. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step Three: Let them crisp without stirring for 4–5 minutes. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes until both sides are golden brown. Smother with onions, cover with cheese, or top with chili—just like Waffle House.

Waffle House Hash Browns Recipe Tips

• Use well-drained potatoes: Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the shredded potatoes. Excess moisture prevents the hash browns from getting that perfect golden crisp.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the potatoes in a thin, even layer so they cook evenly. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.
• Cook low and slow at first: Start on medium heat to soften the inside, then increase to medium-high for a crispy crust. This ensures tender centers with crunchy edges.
• Flip only once: Resist the urge to stir or flip too often—let the bottom crisp before turning. Flipping once creates that signature diner-style crust.
• Customize like Waffle House: Add onions, cheese, peppers, or even chili on top for fun variations. Just like at Waffle House, you can get them “scattered, smothered, and covered!”

Storing Instructions

• Storing in the Refrigerator: Let the cooked hash browns cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or wrap tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooled hash browns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months.

Waffle House Hash Browns Recipe Faqs

What potatoes are best for Waffle House-style hash browns? Shredded russet potatoes work best for that crispy exterior and tender interior. Fresh or frozen shredded potatoes can both be used.

Can I make these hash browns in an air fryer? Yes! Spread the shredded potatoes in a thin layer, lightly spray with oil, and air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I get the hash browns extra crispy? Remove excess moisture from the potatoes and cook in a thin, even layer over medium-high heat. Avoid overcrowding the pan and flip only once.

Can I add toppings like Waffle House? Absolutely! Popular options include onions, cheese, jalapeños, chili, mushrooms, or tomatoes. “All the way” combines all of these toppings.

How long can I store leftover hash browns? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make them ahead of time for meal prep? Yes! Cooked hash browns can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispiness.

More Waffle House Copycat Recipes

Air Fryer Waffle House Patty Melt

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