Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns

Name: Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower, grated; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and these Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns are my go-to. They bring together the deliciousness of crispy hash browns with the subtle flavor of cauliflower, making them a fantastic low-carb option. I also appreciate how quickly they come together—perfect for busy mornings! Seven simple ingredients create a breakfast that feels indulgent while still being nutritious. Trust me, once you try these hash browns, you’ll have a new favorite breakfast that keeps you satisfied and energized.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T20:30:28.184Z

When I first experimented with Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns, I was amazed by how well cauliflower could mimic the texture of traditional potatoes. By grating the cauliflower and squeezing out excess moisture, I ensured that they would crisp up beautifully in the pan. This method not only keeps the hash browns light but also enhances their cheesy flavor.

The addition of sharp cheddar cheese creates a delightful melty crust, while a touch of onion powder gives a savory depth. I’ve found that letting the mixture rest in the fridge allows the flavors to meld even more, making it worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside
Low-carb alternative to traditional hash browns
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings

Cauliflower Preparation: The Key to Texture

Proper preparation of the cauliflower is crucial for achieving the right texture in these hash browns. After grating the cauliflower, it's important to squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel. This step prevents the hash browns from becoming soggy during frying, ensuring they turn out crispy. If you notice the cauliflower is still wet, use additional towels or let it sit for a few minutes to drain further before mixing with the other ingredients.

In addition to moisture removal, the size of the grated cauliflower pieces can impact the final texture. Aim for uniformity in grating; smaller pieces will bind better with the cheese and egg, resulting in a cohesive patty that holds together when frying. If you prefer a chunkier texture, try using a food processor with a coarse grating attachment, but remember that larger pieces may require a longer cooking time to ensure they cook through.

Frying Tips for Perfectly Crispy Hash Browns

When frying the hash browns, preheat your skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to generously coat the bottom. You want the skillet hot enough for the patties to sizzle upon contact, which helps create that desirable crispy exterior. If the oil starts to smoke, lower the heat slightly. Cooking at the right temperature is vital; start with a 4-5 minute fry on each side until they achieve a golden-brown color, then adjust timing as needed for your specific stove and pan.

To avoid overcrowding the skillet, fry the patties in batches. This will help maintain the oil temperature and allow for even cooking. If you find some patties are browning quicker than others, simply adjust their placement in the pan or flip them sooner to ensure all are cooked to perfection without burning. Patience is key here—let the hash browns form a crust before attempting to flip them to promote that crispiness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns.

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower, grated
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Once you have all the ingredients prepared, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns.

Prepare the Cauliflower

Grate the cauliflower using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the squeezed cauliflower, cheddar cheese, beaten egg, green onions, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Form Hash Browns

Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.

Fry Hash Browns

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them plain!

Now that you've made these delectable hash browns, enjoy the crispiness and cheesy flavor!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs such as parsley or cilantro to the mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe dairy-free, consider substituting the cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. Brands like Daiya or Violife offer vegan cheddar options that can provide a similar rich flavor without the dairy. Additionally, nutritional yeast can be sprinkled in for a cheesy taste while adding a boost of nutrients, perfect for health-conscious eaters.

For those who might be allergic to eggs or following a vegan diet, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for about 5 minutes, and it becomes a great binding agent. This will help keep your hash browns together while keeping them plant-based.

Storing and Reheating

These Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect meal prep option. Once cooked, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be kept for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the cooled hash browns in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.

To reheat, use the oven for the best results; preheat to 400°F (200°C), place the hash browns on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat these hash browns in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, adding a little oil for an extra crispy finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these hash browns ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just cook them fresh when you're ready to enjoy!

→ What can I serve with these hash browns?

These hash browns pair beautifully with eggs, avocado, or a simple sour cream dip for a delightful breakfast.

→ Can I freeze leftover hash browns?

Absolutely! Freeze cooked hash browns in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Are there any substitutes for the egg?

Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.