Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly golden, these French Onion Hash Browns combine the comforting flavor of caramelized onions with the irresistible texture of baked potatoes and melted cheese. It’s a dish that’s as perfect for breakfast as it is for dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how easy it is to turn humble potatoes into a restaurant-worthy side. The caramelized onions add a deep, sweet flavor, while Gruyère and sharp cheddar create a gooey, cheesy finish. Best of all, it’s oven-baked — no frying required.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 650 g (22 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small white onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 egg, whisked
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese
• sprinkle kosher salt
• sprinkle black pepper
• chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Squeeze excess liquid from the thawed potatoes using a clean dishtowel and place them in a large bowl.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Once melted, add onions and garlic. Sprinkle with sugar and cook for about 10 minutes until golden and caramelized.
4. Add the caramelized onions to the bowl with potatoes. Pour over the remaining oil and butter, then toss to combine.
5. Mix in the whisked egg, 1 cup of the cheese blend, and a pinch each of salt and pepper.
6. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet without pressing down. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
7. Bake for 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, slice into squares, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 and takes about 45 minutes in total, including prep and baking time.

Variations

• Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes if you prefer to shred your own.
• Swap Gruyère for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
• Add chopped chives or scallions for a fresh twist.
• For a spicy version, mix in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–12 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the hash browns soggy.

FAQs

How do I keep my hash browns crispy?

Make sure to squeeze out all excess moisture from the potatoes before baking. This ensures they crisp up nicely.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

Yes, just shred raw Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly before using.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving.

What kind of cheese melts best for this dish?

Gruyère and cheddar melt beautifully, but mozzarella or Swiss cheese also work well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, it’s already vegetarian-friendly.

Can I freeze baked hash browns?

Yes, let them cool completely, slice, and freeze in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven until crisp.

Why add sugar to the onions?

The sugar helps caramelize the onions faster and enhances their sweetness.

Can I cook these in a skillet instead of baking?

Yes, cook in batches in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp on both sides.

What can I serve with these hash browns?

They pair perfectly with eggs, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.

How do I prevent them from sticking to the pan?

Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.

Conclusion

These French Onion Hash Browns bring a gourmet twist to a classic comfort food. With caramelized onions, rich cheese, and crispy potatoes, it’s a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to impress at any meal.

Print