These healthy sweet potato hash browns are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with natural flavor. I love making them for breakfast or brunch when I want something satisfying but still light and wholesome. They’re simple, delicious, and made with just a few clean ingredients—no deep frying needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it gives me all the crispy, golden goodness of classic hash browns with the added nutrients and flavor of sweet potatoes. They’re naturally gluten-free, easy to make, and perfect for pairing with eggs, avocado, or serving as a base for a breakfast bowl. I can pan-fry or bake them, and they always turn out crispy and flavorful.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
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Egg (to help bind)
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Onion, finely grated or chopped
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Garlic powder
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Olive oil or avocado oil (for cooking)
Optional: paprika, chopped parsley, or a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor
Directions
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I peel and grate the sweet potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Then I squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean towel or paper towel.
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I place the shredded sweet potatoes in a bowl and mix in the egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I stir until everything is well combined.
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I heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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I scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture and press it into a patty, then gently place it into the hot pan. I repeat until the pan is full without overcrowding.
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I cook each patty for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crisp. I transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate while I cook the rest.
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I serve them hot with optional toppings like avocado, eggs, or a dollop of yogurt or hot sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6–8 hash browns, enough for 3–4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I add chopped spinach or kale to the mix for a veggie boost. I’ve also spiced things up with smoked paprika or a touch of chili powder. If I want them egg-free, I use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 2.5 tablespoons water). For a cheesy twist, I mix in a little shredded cheddar or dairy-free cheese. And when I want to bake them instead, I shape them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover hash browns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat and keep them crispy, I use a skillet or pop them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes. I avoid microwaving them, since it softens the texture too much.
FAQs
Can I make these hash browns without eggs?
Yes, I use a flax egg or chia egg as a binder. It works well and keeps the recipe vegan-friendly.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
I usually peel them for a smoother texture, but I’ve made them with the skins on too—it adds a little more fiber and still tastes great.
Can I freeze sweet potato hash browns?
Yes, I let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. I reheat them straight from frozen in the oven or air fryer.
How do I keep them from falling apart?
Removing moisture from the shredded sweet potatoes is key. I also make sure the egg (or flax egg) is well mixed in to bind everything.
Can I make them in the oven instead of frying?
Yes, I bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined sheet for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. They’re still crispy and a bit lighter that way.
Conclusion
These healthy sweet potato hash browns are a staple in my kitchen when I want something easy, tasty, and nourishing. They’re crispy, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether I eat them on their own, pair them with eggs, or use them as a base for a breakfast bowl, they always satisfy—and I never miss the classic version.
Print
Healthy Sweet Potato Hash Browns
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 hash browns (3–4 servings)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These healthy sweet potato hash browns are crispy, flavorful, and made with wholesome ingredients—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 small onion, finely grated or chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for cooking)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp paprika, chopped parsley, pinch of cayenne
Instructions
- Peel and grate sweet potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
- Use a clean towel or paper towel to squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated sweet potatoes, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop 1/4 cup of mixture, form into a patty, and place in the skillet. Repeat without overcrowding.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve hot with avocado, eggs, yogurt, or hot sauce.
Notes
- Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water) for an egg-free version.
- Remove moisture from sweet potatoes to prevent sogginess.
- Add greens or shredded cheese for variety.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter option.
- Reheat in oven or air fryer for crispness; avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 hash browns
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
