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Crispy Waffle House Copycat Hash Browns Recipe Easy Homemade Smothered Covered

waffle house hash browns - featured image

A homemade version of the famous Waffle House hash browns featuring crispy shredded potatoes scattered in a hot skillet, smothered with sautéed onions, and covered with melted sharp cheddar cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and shredded
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (canola or sunflower)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Peel and shred 2 large russet potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
  2. Immediately transfer shredded potatoes to a large bowl of cold water and rinse for about 5 minutes to remove excess starch.
  3. Drain the potatoes in a colander, then press them in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and starting to caramelize. Remove onions and set aside.
  5. Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet, heating over medium-high until shimmering but not smoking.
  6. Scatter the dried shredded potatoes evenly and thinly across the skillet surface. Press down lightly with a spatula to form a loose crust. Cook undisturbed for 6–8 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Carefully flip sections of the hash browns and cook for another 5–6 minutes until the second side crisps up.
  8. Spread the cooked onions evenly over the hash browns. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top.
  9. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.
  10. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Slide the hash browns onto a plate and serve hot.

Notes

Drying the shredded potatoes thoroughly is crucial for crispiness. Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for best results. Flip smaller sections to avoid breakage and maintain the crust. If browning too fast, lower the heat. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil and cheddar with vegan cheese.

Nutrition

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