Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game with a mouthwatering dish that combines the savory goodness of ham, the melty richness of cheddar cheese, and the satisfying crunch of crispy hashbrowns? Look no further! Our Ham and Cheese Hashbrowns recipe is a deliciously simple way to start your day or enjoy a comforting brunch. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleasing favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and treat yourself to a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and nostalgia!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen hashbrowns
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by dicing the ham into small, uniform cubes and finely chopping the onion.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Spread the frozen hashbrowns evenly across the skillet, creating a single layer that allows each potato piece to crisp.
- Cook hashbrowns for 5-6 minutes without stirring, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crispy bottom.
- Sprinkle diced onions over the hashbrowns and gently flip the potato layer to cook the other side.
- Add diced ham across the surface of the hashbrowns, distributing it evenly for consistent flavor.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste preferences.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the entire hashbrown surface, allowing it to melt and create a golden, cheesy top.
- Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes to help the cheese melt completely and ensure even heating.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set slightly.
- Slice into portions and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or additional black pepper.
Tips
- Choose the Right Hashbrowns: For the best texture, opt for frozen hashbrowns that are shredded rather than diced. They crisp up beautifully and create that perfect golden crust.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the hashbrowns to cook undisturbed for the first 5-6 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy bottom layer that makes this dish irresistible.
- Customize Your Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Add in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. You could also switch up the cheese to pepper jack for a spicy kick!
- Keep the Heat Moderate: Cooking on medium-high heat is key. Too high, and you risk burning the hashbrowns; too low, and they won’t crisp up properly.
- Let the Cheese Melt: Covering the skillet while the cheese melts ensures it becomes gooey and delicious, enveloping all those tasty ingredients perfectly.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and freshness, making your dish look as good as it tastes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 249kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 40mg
