These golden, crispy air fryer hash browns need just 3 ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner—and you can even use frozen hash browns. Easy, healthy, and gluten-free!

Air fryer hash browns from scratch
Air fryer hash browns have become a go-to in our house. We're big breakfast fans—waffles, pancakes, home fries, you name it. But crispy hash browns? They're the best. Nothing pairs better with eggs and bacon.
I came up with this recipe to get those perfect, golden edges without a lot of oil. With just three ingredients—potatoes, garlic powder, and a little olive oil—you get hash browns that are crispy outside, soft inside, and full of flavor.
Russet potatoes work great here; they get extra crispy. But you can try Yukon golds or even sweet potatoes if you want.
I love serving these with scrambled eggs for brunch. They're gluten-free, vegan, and always a hit with family and friends!
Why you'll love this recipe:
- Crispy Texture: Golden, crispy outside with a tender inside.
- Healthier Option: Hand-shredded potatoes with no additives.
- Low Oil: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying, keeping it light but tasty.
- Simple Ingredients: Just potatoes, garlic powder, olive oil, plus salt and pepper.
- Easy Cooking: No constant flipping is needed in the air fryer.
- Gluten-Free & Vegan: Naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
- Frozen Option: Use 3 cups of frozen shredded hash browns if preferred.
Ingredients in hash browns
These homemade air fryer hash browns include three ingredients plus salt and pepper. They are so easy to make! Here is a list so you have everything prepared:
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for crispiness, but Yukon gold or sweet potatoes can work too.
- Olive Oil: A small amount helps achieve that perfect golden crust; you can also use avocado oil.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory touch—skip fresh garlic, as it may burn in the air fryer.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Season to taste.
How to make air fryer hash browns
These homemade crispy hash browns are ready in under 15 minutes. Just shred, season, and air fry! Here are the steps:
Step One: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F.
Step Two: Scrub the potatoes clean, then shred them with a box grater. Rinse the shreds in a colander under cold water until the water runs clear.
Step Three: Transfer the shredded potatoes to a clean dish towel or paper towels. Squeeze firmly to remove all excess liquid. Dry potatoes = crispier hash browns!
Step Four: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step Five: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Add the seasoned potatoes, then press them into an even, packed layer across the basket.
Step Six: Spray the top of the potatoes with oil and air fry for 12-16 minutes until golden and crispy. No flipping is needed but check at 10 minutes as air fryer times vary.
Carefully remove the hash browns from the air fryer, and enjoy!
My top recipe tips for crispy air fryer hash browns:
- Shred Thick: Use the largest box grater setting for thicker hash browns that won't burn quickly.
- Rinse Well: Rinse the shreds under cold water to remove starch—this helps them cook and crisp up better.
- Dry Completely: Pat the potatoes dry for maximum crispiness.
- Press Firmly: Use a spatula to press potatoes into the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Don't Skip the Oil: Olive oil and spray are key to crispy hash browns—don't leave them out.
- Use Frozen if Needed: You can use frozen hash browns—add about 3 cups directly from the freezer to a mixing bowl, season, and cook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hash browns gluten-free?
Yes! Homemade hash browns made with just potatoes, salt, and oil are naturally gluten-free. But if you're buying pre-made hash browns, check the label for added ingredients like flour that could contain gluten.
What type of potatoes are best for hash browns?
Russet potatoes are the best for crispy hash browns because they're starchy. You can also use Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes, sweet potatoes work great! Just note they cook a bit faster. Air fry them for 8-10 minutes instead.
Can I add onions or other vegetables?
Yes! You can add up to ½ cup of diced, cooked veggies like onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Are hash browns healthy?
Yes! These hash browns are healthy because they're made with just a few simple ingredients, air-fried with minimal oil, and are gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free.
How to store and reheat hash browns:
Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-7 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
If you love this recipe, try these next!
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
- Crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
- Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes
- Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts
- Air Fryer Home Fries
Did you make this recipe?
If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don't forget to tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!
📖 Recipe
Homemade Air Fryer Hash Browns
Ingredients
- 3 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-vergin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 370°F.
- Scrub potatoes clean under water and pat them dry. Using a box grater, carefully shred the potatoes. Add them to a colander and run the shredded potatoes under cold water until the water runs clear (about 10 – 20 seconds).
- Transfer the shredded potatoes to a wad of paper towels or a clean dish towel and firmly press them dry, squeezing out all the excess liquid. For the crispiest hash browns, make sure the potato shreds are as dry as possible.
- Transfer shredded potatoes to a mixing bowl and add olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spray the inside of your air fryer basket with avocado or olive oil spray. Add seasoned shredded potatoes and use a spatula to spread and press the shreds into an even layer across the basket. The potatoes should be “packed” and NOT loosely spread about the basket.
- Spray the top with extra avocado or olive oil spray and air fry for 12-16 minutes, until golden with crispy edges. No need to flip. Every air fryer is different, so check at the 10-minute mark.
- Remove from the air fryer and enjoy!
Mel says
How long in air fryer do they cook for? Air Fryer temp?
Tati Chermayeff says
Hi Mel - all the introductions are in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.