Copycat Waffle House Hash Browns Recipe

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Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 1/2 cups frozen shredded hash browns, partially thawed
• 2 tablespoons diced onion
• 1/4 cup diced ham
• 1 thick slice American cheese

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. Whisk together the melted butter and canola oil in a small bowl. Reserve 2 teaspoons of the butter-oil mixture for later use.
3. Heat the remaining butter-oil mixture on one side of a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Place the partially thawed hash browns in a round shape, about 5 inches in diameter, on the buttered side of the skillet.
5. Cook the hash browns undisturbed until the edges are browned and crispy, about 5 minutes.
6. Flip the hash browns and cook on the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until browned and crispy.
7. While the hash browns cook, add the reserved butter-oil mixture to the other side of the skillet. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring often.
8. Add the diced ham to the onions and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
9. Place the onion and ham mixture on top of the cooked hash browns.
10. Top with the slice of American cheese. Turn off the heat and let it stand until the cheese melts.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe: 2

Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Total Carbohydrate	Dietary Fiber	Sugars	Protein	Vitamin C	Calcium	Iron	Potassium
519	36g	11g	59mg	776mg	37g	4g	4g	14g	8mg	596mg	1mg	761mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Waffle House Hash Browns

Hash browns have been a beloved American breakfast staple since the late 19th century, but Waffle House elevated them to an iconic status. Founded in 1955 in Georgia, Waffle House popularized the idea of customizable, golden, crispy shredded potatoes served fresh on a hot griddle. This signature dish, often called smothered and covered, became more than just a sideit became a cultural phenomenon, emblematic of Southern breakfast culture and late-night dining across the United States.

Regional Variations

Although hash browns are served nationwide, the Southern U.S. takes a particular pride in their preparation. Waffle House hash browns are known for their unique topping options, such as onions, cheese, ham, mushrooms, and chili. In other regions, hash browns are often pan-fried in a thin, uniform patty, while in the South, the shredded style allows for a crispier texture on the outside and a soft, fluffy interior, giving each bite a satisfying contrast.

How They Differ From Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional potato pancakes or simple shredded hash browns, Waffle House-style hash browns are highly customizable and cooked on a flat-top griddle. The addition of toppings like onions, cheese, and ham transforms them from a simple side dish into a full, hearty meal. This differs from classic American diner hash browns, which are typically served plain or lightly seasoned, without the array of smothered or covered variations.

Where They Are Typically Served

These hash browns are a staple at Waffle House locations nationwide, often served any time of day, from breakfast to late-night snacks. They are popular in casual dining environments, especially diners and roadside restaurants, where the emphasis is on comfort food and speedy service. Many fans also replicate the recipe at home, enjoying the authentic taste with a personal touch of toppings.

Interesting Facts

• Waffle House employees have a unique lingo for hash brown orders: smothered means onions, covered means cheese, and chunked indicates ham.
• The chain serves over 1.9 million pounds of potatoes annually, making hash browns a critical part of its menu.
• Despite being a simple dish, these hash browns are known for their addictive texturecrispy on the edges and tender in the center.
• Many food enthusiasts attempt to create copycat recipes at home, trying to replicate the exact flavor and texture of Waffle House hash browns.
• The dish has inspired a variety of creative twists, including chili-topped hash browns, loaded breakfast bowls, and even dessert variations with sweet toppings.

Whether enjoyed at the original Waffle House or made at home using a copycat recipe, these hash browns remain a beloved symbol of hearty American breakfast culture, showcasing the perfect balance of crispiness, flavor, and comfort.

FAQ about Copycat Waffle House Hash Browns Recipe

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