Print

Crispy Cast Iron Skillet Hash Browns with Bacon

crispy cast iron skillet hash browns with bacon - featured image

A simple, hearty breakfast recipe featuring crispy hash browns cooked in a cast iron skillet with smoky bacon fat for perfect texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or bacon fat
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel and grate the russet potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Transfer grated potatoes into a large bowl of cold water and soak for 5 minutes to loosen starch.
  2. Drain potatoes in a colander, then wrap handfuls in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible.
  3. Heat cast iron skillet over medium heat. Lay bacon strips flat and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, flipping once. Remove bacon and set aside on paper towels to drain. Leave rendered bacon fat in the pan.
  4. Add 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat (or vegetable oil) back into the skillet and heat until shimmering. Spread grated potatoes evenly across skillet, pressing down with a spatula to form a compact Β½ inch thick layer. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder if using.
  5. Cook potatoes undisturbed for 8-10 minutes on medium heat until golden brown edges form. Peek underneath once or twice to check color; lower heat if browning too fast.
  6. Carefully loosen edges with a wide spatula and flip the entire hash brown cake (or in sections). Press down again and cook for another 7-8 minutes until second side is crispy and golden.
  7. Crumble cooked bacon over the top or serve on the side. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately.

Notes

Dry potatoes thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Use bacon fat for best flavor and crunch. Cook on medium heat to avoid burning. Press potatoes firmly when cooking. Flip carefully to avoid breaking. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Nutrition

Keywords: hash browns, bacon, cast iron skillet, breakfast, crispy potatoes, easy recipe, brunch