Smothered Waffle House Hash Browns Recipe

Waffle House smothered hash browns are more than just a breakfast item – they’re a savory meal unlike no other to fill up the hungriest eater in the morning!

You’ll love how the combo of onions and melted cheese turns simple hash browns into a colossal plate of food.

I recommend using vegetable oil for cooking, as its neutral flavor and high smoke point help achieve that all-important crispiness.

If you want an extra rich flavor, you can sauté onions with a bit of butter before adding the potatoes.

How to Make Smothered Waffle House Hash Browns

Ingredients

• 2 cups Hash Browns (frozen or dehydrated)
• 1 medium Onion (sliced)
• 1 cup Mushrooms (sliced)
• 1/2 cup Cheese (shredded, your choice)
• 4 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
• 1 pinch Salt
• 1 pinch Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

Make sure they blend together nicely.

Step 2:

Add the hash browns to the skillet evenly, pressing them down gently with a spatula.

Let them cook undisturbed until the bottom side turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3:

While the hash browns are cooking, melt the remaining butter in a separate pan and add the onions and mushrooms.

Sauté until the onions become translucent and mushrooms are tender.

Step 4:

Flip the hash browns and spread the onion and mushroom mixture over them.

Top with the cheese.

Cover the skillet until the cheese melts, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5:

Season with salt and pepper.

Once the cheese has melted to perfection, serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Oil and Butter Balance:

Using a mix of oil and butter offers both flavor and the right crispiness.

This combination prevents burning while giving a rich taste.

Potato Choice:

Waffle House uses dehydrated potatoes, but frozen hash browns work too.

Be sure to fully defrost if using frozen for an even crispier texture.

Onion and Mushroom Sauté:

Slow and steady is the way when it comes to sautéing onions and mushrooms.

This creates a sweet and savory flavor that enhances the dish marvelously.

Cheese Variants:

Feel free to experiment with the cheese.

A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack adds complexity.

Tailor it to your liking!

What to Serve with Smothered Hash Browns

Crispy Bacon

You can’t go wrong with serving some crispy bacon alongside smothered hash browns.

The savory and salty flavors of bacon provide a perfect contrast to the hearty and comforting taste of the hash browns.

Cooking bacon in the oven keeps it perfectly crispy without much hassle.

Scrambled Eggs

A classic pairing with hash browns involves some fluffy scrambled eggs.

The creamy texture of scrambled eggs complements the crispy exterior of the hash browns.

Adding a bit of cheese to your eggs creates an even richer taste.

Avocado Salad

For something fresh and a little different, try an avocado salad.

Combine diced avocados with tomatoes, red onions, and a splash of lime juice.

This side dish adds a vibrant and refreshing touch.

Sautéed Spinach

Sautéed spinach makes a lovely addition to your meal.

The slight bitterness from the spinach pairs beautifully with the onions and mushrooms commonly found in smothered hash browns.

Cooking it with a bit of garlic and olive oil enhances its flavor.

Spicy Pickles

Consider adding a few slices of spicy pickles to your plate.

The tangy and spicy notes create a unique balance when combined with hash browns.

Pickles bring an exciting flavor that challenges the traditional sides.

Variations and Substitutions

Ingredient Swaps

For a unique flavor, consider using olive oil instead of margarine.

It’s a simple switch that adds a hint of richness and a healthier fat to your dish, which is something everyone can appreciate!

You might like to swap regular cheese with a spicier option like pepper jack for a little extra heat.

Cooking Techniques

Try cooking the hash browns steamed with ice to achieve a soft interior while keeping them crispy on the outside.

Another method is to cook them dry for a more traditional texture.

Experimenting with these methods can add a whole new dimension to your meal preparation and enjoyment.

Topping Variations

You don’t need to stick to just cheese or onions when smothering your hash browns.

Feel free to add ingredients like mushrooms, ham, or even jalapeños for a nice twist.

I love adding a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top for extra zest!

How to Store Leftover Hash Browns

Cool Down First

Before storing your leftover hash browns, make sure they cool down to room temperature.

This step prevents condensation and keeps them from becoming soggy once stored.

Lay them out in a single layer to cool quickly.

Airtight Storage

Once cooled, place the hash browns in a container with a tight-fitting lid.

You can also use a resealable plastic bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.

The less air, the fresher your hash browns will remain.

Refrigerator or Freezer Choices

For short-term storage, place the airtight container in the refrigerator.

They will generally last up to three days when stored in this way.

For longer storage, opt for the freezer, where they can last up to three months.

Make sure they are thoroughly sealed to avoid freezer burn.

That’s it! Happy storing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Frozen Hash Browns

One common mistake is using frozen hash browns right out of the package.

If you use frozen hash browns directly, they might not become as crispy as you want.

Always thaw and dry them thoroughly before cooking.

Skimping on Oil and Butter

You might be tempted to go light on oil and butter, but don’t!

This fat mixture really helps in creating that beautiful crispy texture.

Make sure to use the right amount of oil and butter for the best results.

Cooking All at Once

Crowding your skillet with too many hash browns can lead to uneven cooking.

If you cook too many at once, they might steam instead of crisp.

Cook them in batches for that perfect texture.