Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, hash brown patties are a breakfast classic enjoyed by people of all ages. While frozen store-bought patties are convenient, making them at home is just as easy—and even more satisfying. This 2-Ingredient Air Fryer Hash Brown Patties recipe proves that you don’t need a long ingredient list or complicated steps to enjoy golden, crispy hash browns at home.
With only potatoes and oil, this recipe keeps things simple while delivering excellent texture and flavor. The air fryer creates perfectly crisp edges without deep frying, making this a healthier and mess-free option. These hash brown patties are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish for lunch or dinner.
Why Make Hash Brown Patties in the Air Fryer?
Air fryers are ideal for cooking hash browns because they circulate hot air evenly around the food. This results in a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and fluffy. Compared to pan-frying, the air fryer uses less oil, cooks more evenly, and requires less cleanup.
This recipe is especially great for busy mornings, beginner cooks, or anyone who enjoys simple homemade food without unnecessary ingredients.
Ingredients (Exact Measurements)
Main Ingredients
2 medium russet potatoes (about 1 pound or 450 grams total)
1½ tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable oil, olive oil, or avocado oil)
That’s all you need. Salt and seasoning are optional and can be added after cooking if desired.
Equipment Needed
Air fryer
Box grater or food processor
Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
Mixing bowl
Hands or spoon for shaping patties
Step-by-Step Homemade Method
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Using a box grater or food processor, grate the potatoes into thin shreds.
Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture
Place the grated potatoes into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist and squeeze firmly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible. Removing moisture is the key to crispy hash browns.
Step 3: Mix with Oil
Transfer the dried potato shreds to a bowl and add 1½ tablespoons of oil. Mix well so the oil coats the potatoes evenly.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Using your hands, press each portion firmly into a flat, round patty about ½ inch thick. Pressing firmly helps the patties hold together while cooking.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 6: Air Fry the Hash Brown Patties
Lightly grease the air fryer basket if needed. Place the patties in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. The patties should be golden brown and crispy when finished.
Cooking Time Summary
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 22–25 minutes
Tips for Extra Crispy Hash Browns
Always squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the potatoes.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Flip the patties halfway through cooking.
Use russet potatoes for the best texture.
Press patties firmly so they don’t fall apart.
Optional Seasoning Ideas (After Cooking)
If you want extra flavor while keeping the base recipe at two ingredients, season the patties after cooking with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, or grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Ideas
Serve hash brown patties with scrambled or fried eggs, bacon or sausage, avocado toast, sour cream, or ketchup. They also work well as the base for breakfast sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 370°F (188°C) for three to four minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the texture.
Freezing Instructions
Uncooked patties can be frozen in a single layer until firm, then transferred to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen in the air fryer, adding three to five extra minutes to the cooking time.
Final Thoughts
This 2-Ingredient Air Fryer Hash Brown Patties recipe shows how easy it is to make crispy, homemade hash browns with minimal ingredients and effort. Using just potatoes and oil, you can create a comforting, golden breakfast that tastes just as good as any restaurant version—without deep frying or preservatives.