Hash browns are a popular breakfast side dish made from shredded or diced potatoes that are pan-fried until brown and crispy on the outside. But how many calories are actually in one fried hash brown patty? Read on to find out the calorie count and nutrition facts for different types and sizes of hash browns.
The Basics of Hash Browns
Hash browns are made from potatoes that have been shredded, diced, or spiralized into small pieces. The raw potato shreds are then pan-fried in oil or butter until they become crispy and golden brown. Hash browns can be made from white or sweet potatoes and the shape can vary from shredded forms to patties or cakes.
When cooking hash browns at home, they are often pan-fried in butter or vegetable oil. Commercial and frozen hash browns may also be deep-fried for a crisper texture. The cooking method and amount of added fat impacts the total calories and nutritional value. Using heart-healthy oils like canola or olive oil instead of butter or coconut oil can help reduce the calories.
Calories in a Fried Hash Brown Patty
The calories in a fried hash brown patty can vary greatly depending on the size and specific ingredients used. Here are some general nutrition facts:
- A small 2.6 oz (74g) pan-fried hash brown patty contains approximately 110 calories
- A medium 4 oz (113g) hash brown patty contains about 158 calories
- A large 6 oz (170g) hash brown patty contains around 237 calories
These values are based on hash brown patties pan-fried in about 1 tablespoon of oil. Using butter, deep-frying, or larger patties will increase the calorie count. Air fried hash browns will be on the lower end for calories.
Calories in McDonald’s Hash Browns
One of the most popular fast food hash brown options is the McDonald’s Hash Brown. Here are the nutrition facts for a McDonald’s hash brown:
- 1 McDonald’s hash brown patty (2.4 oz or 68g) contains 150 calories
The McDonald’s hash brown patty is deep fried in vegetable oil, adding to the calorie content. By comparison, a 2.6 oz pan-fried hash brown patty is 110 calories, so deep frying adds about 40 extra calories.
Calories in Frozen Hash Browns
Frozen hash brown patties and potato cakes can also vary in nutrition content:
- Ore-Ida Golden Hash Browns (2 patties, 3.8 oz or 108g) = 220 calories
- Ore-Ida Country Style Hash Browns (1 patty, 2.6 oz or 74g) = 160 calories
- Alexia Hash Brown Patties (1 patty, 1.9 oz or 54g) = 110 calories
The type of oil and cooking method impact the calories as well. Air fried frozen hash browns will be lower in calories than fried in oil. You can also compare the calories on different brands and serving sizes to choose a lower calorie option.
Nutrition Facts for Hash Browns
In addition to calories, fried hash browns also contain carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamins and minerals:
| Nutrient | Serving | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1 patty (74g) | 110 |
| Fat | 1 patty (74g) | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 patty (74g) | 15g |
| Fiber | 1 patty (74g) | 1g |
| Protein | 1 patty (74g) | 2g |
| Sodium | 1 patty (74g) | 290mg |
Hash browns are a good source of carbohydrates from the potatoes. They also contain a small amount of fiber, protein, vitamins like vitamin C and B6, and minerals like iron and potassium.
Ways to Make Hash Browns Healthier
Although hash browns are high in calories and fat when fried, there are some easy ways to make them a bit healthier:
- Use Greek yogurt or mashed avocado instead of oil or butter for frying
- Opt for olive, avocado or coconut oil instead of butter or vegetable oil
- Air fry instead of pan frying to reduce oil and calories
- Top with herbs, spices, or hot sauce instead of salt for flavor
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hash browns right after cooking
- Cook a large batch in the oven instead of frying individual patties
- Use a spiralizer to make hash brown “nests” from zucchini or sweet potatoes
Making substitutions when cooking and selecting lower calorie toppings and ingredients can help lighten up fried hash browns.
Healthier Hash Brown Recipes
Here are some delicious and nutritious recipes for healthier hash browns:
Greek Yogurt Hash Browns
Cook shredded potatoes in Greek yogurt instead of oil. The yogurt gives a nice crisp crust with fewer calories and fat. Top with an egg, avocado, salsa or other toppings for a complete breakfast.
Sweet Potato Hash Browns
Make hash browns with spiralized sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes. Sweet potatoes have more fiber, vitamins A and C. Season them with garlic, onions, herbs and spices.
Baked Hash Browns
For oven-baked hash browns, toss the potatoes in oil or cooking spray and bake on a sheet pan for a lower calorie version without having to pan fry. Finish them under the broiler for crispy edges.
Cauliflower Hash Browns
For a low carb option, make hash browns with shredded raw cauliflower instead of potatoes. The cauliflower bakes up with a similar texture and soaks up any seasoning.
Tips for the Best Hash Browns
Here are some top tips for making the crispiest, crunchiest hash browns at home:
- Use starchy russet potatoes. The high starch content helps get the hash brown exterior crispy.
- Shred potatoes using the large holes of a box grater or food processor. Don’t grate too fine.
- Press as much liquid out of the shredded potatoes as possible before cooking, to prevent sogginess.
- Add salt and pepper to the raw potato shreds so they soak up seasoning.
- Heat oil in the pan until shimmering before adding potatoes. The high heat helps sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook hash browns in a single layer with space between pieces.
- Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to let the potato crust develop before flipping.
Following these tips for preparing the potatoes and pan-frying methods will help you achieve diner-style crispy hash browns at home.
Serving Ideas for Hash Browns
Hash browns are very versatile and can be served at any meal. Here are some delicious ways to serve up hash browns:
- Breakfast – Top with eggs, cheese, bacon, sausage, salsa, avocado
- Lunch – Make hash brown bowls and fill with chili, chicken salad, taco meat
- Dinner – Serve alongside grilled steaks, chicken or fish
- Appetizer – Top with pulled pork, chili, nacho toppings for loaded hash browns
- Side Dish – Serve seasoned hash browns alongside roasts or other entrées
Hash browns pair well with almost any meal or cuisine. Get creative with fun loaded hash brown recipes at any time of day.
Storing and Reheating Hash Browns
To keep hash browns fresh after cooking:
- Let hash browns cool completely before storing to prevent condensation
- Place cooked hash browns in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag
- Refrigerate for 3-4 days
- Reheat leftover hash browns in a skillet, oven or toaster oven until hot and crispy
- To reheat from frozen, bake frozen hash browns at 400°F for 15-20 minutes
With proper storage techniques, leftover hash browns maintain their texture and taste for several days. Reheating until crispy is key when enjoying hash browns again.
Common Hash Brown FAQs
Are hash browns healthy?
Hash browns provide carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, but they are high in calories and fat when fried in oil or butter. Baked or air fried hash browns are a healthier option. Sweet potato hash browns also pack more nutrients.
Are hash browns gluten free?
Plain potatoes are naturally gluten free. Hash browns made from just shredded potato, oil and seasonings are gluten free. But some manufactured hash browns may contain small amounts of gluten depending on added ingredients.
Should you soak hash browns before frying?
Soaking raw potato shreds removes excess starch for less soggy hash browns. Rinsing also prevents greasiness. Pat the potatoes very dry before frying for the crispiest crust.
Can you bake hash browns instead of frying?
Yes, baking gives a healthier version of hash browns without all the oil or butter for frying. Toss the potato shreds in a little oil before baking for 25-30 minutes at 425°F until browned and crisp.
How long do hash browns last in the fridge?
Properly stored cooked hash browns last 3-4 days refrigerated. Place completely cooled hash browns in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
