Loaded Hash Browns (Extra Crispy and Cheesy)

This loaded hash browns recipe takes crispy hashbrown patties and turns them into the ultimate comfort food. They’re air-fried until golden, smothered with melted cheddar, and finished with a cool ranch-chive sour cream topping plus plenty of smoky bacon crumbles. Think of them like loaded potato skins, but crispier, cheesier, and packed with even more flavor! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, game day, or even a late-night snack, these loaded hash browns won't disappoint. 

Why I Love These Loaded Hash Browns

I was inspired to make these loaded hash browns after trying Dunkin’s version and seeing a wave of TikTok videos showing fun ways to dress up hashbrown patties. Instead of just copying what I saw, I drew on my grandma’s classic loaded potato skins recipe and used her favorite toppings—cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon, and chives. That mix of nostalgia and modern inspiration has made this one of my favorite savory additions to breakfast, perfect with a stack of pancakes. I've been making this recipe nonstop since I first created it— the loaded toppings on the crispy hashbrowns are just too good!

What makes them so great is the flavor-packed, yet simple combination of ingredients. Frozen hashbrown patties crisp up to perfection in the air fryer, the cheese melts ooey-gooey, and the ranch sour cream topping adds just the right tang. Bacon and chives add a salty, savory finish to everything.

Best of all, these loaded hash browns are quick, easy, and endlessly customizable—pile on extra toppings just like nachos or loaded fries, and you’ve got comfort food made in minutes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4–6 frozen hashbrown patties
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon chives, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 ½ teaspoon ranch seasoning
• 2 tablespoon crumbled bacon

How To Make Loaded Hash Browns

Step 1: Cook the Hash Browns

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and grease the basket with cooking spray. Lay the hashbrown patties flat in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 2: Add Cheese

Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of each hashbrown patty. Return them to the air fryer for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 3: Make the Sour Cream Topping

In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream, chives, and ranch seasoning until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble

Spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the top of the cheesy hash browns. Top with extra cheddar, bacon crumbles, more ranch seasoning, and fresh chives.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately while the loaded hashbrowns are warm and crisp and the cheese is still melty.

My Expert Tips For The Best Loaded Hash Browns

• Cook until deeply golden and crisp: Don’t rush the cooking process—hashbrown patties need at least 20 minutes in the air fryer at 400°F to develop that shatter-crisp crust. Every air fryer runs a little differently, so check them toward the end of cooking. If they’re still pale or soft in the center, give them a few extra minutes until they’re evenly golden brown.
• Grate your own cheese for the perfect melt: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it’s often coated with anti-caking agents that stop it from melting smoothly. For the best gooey topping, shred a block of sharp cheddar (or your cheese of choice) right before cooking. You’ll get better flavor and a creamier melt that clings to the crispy hashbrowns.
• Make the ranch sour cream ahead of time: Mixing the sour cream topping in advance gives the flavors time to meld, making it even tangier and more delicious. Store it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days so it’s ready to go when your hashbrowns are hot and crispy. It’s also a great dip for fries, veggies, or even chicken tenders, so don't be afraid to make extra!
• Don’t skip the bacon: Crispy bacon is key—it adds smoky, salty crunch that balances the richness of the sour cream and melted cheese. Cook the bacon extra crisp, then crumble it just before topping so it stays crunchy. Turkey bacon or even crumbled sausage can also work if you want to switch things up.
• Garnish at the very end: Chives bring a burst of freshness and color that makes these loaded hash browns look and taste restaurant-worthy. Sprinkle them on right before serving so they stay bright and flavorful. If you don’t have chives, green onions are a great substitute.
• Customize them like nachos: Think of this recipe as potato nachos—you can pile on almost anything. Try adding sliced jalapeños for heat, a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce or queso blanco for more creaminess, diced tomatoes for freshness, or black beans and corn for a Tex-Mex twist. For a full meal, top with pulled pork, chili, or even shredded BBQ chicken.
• Reheat the right way: If you have leftovers, don’t let them go to waste. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 4–5 minutes to bring back the crispness. Avoid microwaving, since it makes the patties soggy and chewy. For larger batches, you can reheat them in a 400°F oven on a baking sheet for 10 minutes.

Variations For Loaded Hash Browns To Try

• Southwest Style: Give your loaded hash browns a Tex-Mex twist by topping them with salsa, creamy avocado slices, and melted pepper jack cheese. Add a sprinkle of cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness. This variation pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or a side of refried beans.
• BBQ Hash Browns: Turn this into a BBQ-inspired meal by drizzling the patties with your favorite barbecue sauce, then topping with shredded chicken, pulled pork, or even brisket. Finish with Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese so it melts into the smoky toppings. This version makes a hearty main dish, almost like BBQ nachos—but with crispy potatoes.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and bulk them up with savory veggie toppings instead. Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, chopped broccoli, or roasted bell peppers add depth and flavor while keeping the dish meat-free. You can also toss on black beans or corn for extra protein and texture.
• Breakfast Style: Make it the ultimate breakfast by topping each loaded hash brown patty with a fried or poached egg. The runny yolk acts like a rich sauce that soaks into the crispy potatoes, cheese, and sour cream topping. Add crumbled sausage or turkey bacon if you want extra protein.
• Buffalo Twist: If you love spice, drizzle the patties with buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles and diced celery. It’s like buffalo wings meet crispy potato hashbrowns—perfect for game day! 
• Greek-Inspired: Swap the ranch sour cream for a drizzle of tzatziki and add toppings like diced cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives. It’s a lighter, refreshing take that works as a unique appetizer or side dish.

Loaded Hash Browns FAQs

Can I make loaded hash browns in the oven instead of the air fryer?

Yes! To bake in the oven, place hashbrown patties on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Add cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts perfectly before adding the toppings.

Can I use shredded hashbrowns instead of patties?

Absolutely. Spread shredded hashbrowns evenly in a greased baking dish or on a sheet pan. Bake at 400°F until crisp, then add cheese and toppings. This turns the dish into more of a loaded hashbrown casserole that’s great for serving a crowd.

Can I make loaded hash browns ahead of time?

Hashbrowns are best served hot and crispy straight from the air fryer or oven. However, you can prep the sour cream ranch topping, cook the bacon, and grate the cheese up to 2 days ahead. When ready to serve, all you’ll need to do is crisp the patties, melt the cheese, and assemble.

What kind of cheese works best for loaded hash browns?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice because it melts smoothly and has a bold flavor, but mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack are all excellent options. For extra richness, sprinkle on a little parmesan or crumble some feta over the top.

How should I serve loaded hash browns?

These loaded hashbrowns are super versatile! Serve them as a fun appetizer for parties, a hearty breakfast with breakfast hand pies, or balance out the savory with sweet and serve with sourdough French toast or mini waffles. You could even serve it as a side dish for dinner with fried chicken thighs. They’re also perfect for game day when you want something easy, cheesy, and shareable.

How do I reheat leftover loaded hash browns?

The best way to reheat is in the air fryer at 375°F for 4–5 minutes or in the oven at 400°F for 8–10 minutes. This brings back the crisp edges without drying out the cheese and toppings. Avoid microwaving, which makes them soggy.

My Final Thoughts

These loaded hash browns check all the boxes—crispy on the outside, cheesy throughout, with bacon and a sour cream ranch tying it all together. They’re the kind of comfort food that disappears the second you put them on the table. I love making them for brunch or game day, but honestly, they’re just as good for a quick dinner when I’m craving something fun. Once you try them, I’m pretty sure they’ll make their way into your regular rotation, too. Try this recipe and leave a comment and review below—I want to hear what you think and what toppings you used!