Description
These Crispy Cauliflower Hash Browns offer a delicious, low-carb twist on traditional hash browns, perfect for elevating your breakfast with a healthy, flavorful vegetable base. Made with riced cauliflower, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, these hash browns are baked to crispy perfection with a hint of smoky paprika, garlic, and onion powders. Suitable for those seeking gluten-free and lower-carb options, they make a satisfying and savory morning treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Base
- 3 cups riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen)
Binder and Flavorings
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (lactose-free options available)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast as substitute for vegan)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (substitute with fresh garlic if preferred)
- 1 tsp onion powder (fresh onion can work)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (cayenne for added heat)
Cooking
- Non-stick cooking spray as needed (parchment paper for cleanup)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of hash browns.
- Microwave Cauliflower: Place the riced cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 2 minutes to soften. Let it cool slightly before handling to avoid burns.
- Drain Excess Moisture: Transfer the warm cauliflower onto a clean kitchen towel and squeeze thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy hash browns.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the egg and then add sharp cheddar, Parmesan, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine well.
- Combine Cauliflower: Add the dried cauliflower to the egg and cheese mixture, stirring thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Midway through cooking, rotate the baking sheet to ensure even baking on all sides.
- Broil for Crispiness: Switch your oven to broil and cook the hash browns for an additional 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning, until they turn golden and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the hash browns to cool briefly before serving. Enjoy warm as a delicious breakfast or side dish.
Notes
- For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from cauliflower to help the hash browns crisp up well.
- Adjust spices like black pepper and smoked paprika according to your taste preferences.
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking if you prefer not to use cooking spray.
- Serving with sour cream or a spicy dipping sauce can add extra flavor.
