Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns

Name: Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, riced; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for frying

Highlighted under: Balanced Eating Ideas

I absolutely love starting my day with these Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns! They’re the perfect blend of crispiness and cheesy goodness, making them a delightful alternative to traditional hash browns. I often whip these up for brunch with family or as a tasty side for dinner. The ingredients are simple, yet they come together to create a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies, without sacrificing flavor!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:10:27.497Z

When I first tried making Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to achieve that golden, crispy texture. By squeezing out as much moisture as possible from the cauliflower, I found they bake up beautifully without becoming soggy. This is key, and I always recommend using a clean kitchen towel to help with this process to ensure you get the best result.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different cheeses and spices. I found that sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory cauliflower. Don't be afraid to get creative—try adding some chopped green onions or even a sprinkle of paprika for a bit of a kick. These tips have made my hash browns a family favorite!

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns
Crispy texture that satisfies your cravings
Bursting with cheesy flavor in every bite
A healthy twist on a classic breakfast favorite

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The key to achieving that satisfying crispiness in your Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns lies in the ricing process. After pulsing the cauliflower in the food processor, ensure you remove as much moisture as possible. I find that using a kitchen towel works best—squeeze out the riced cauliflower until it's quite dry. This step is crucial; if there’s too much moisture, the hash browns will steam instead of fry, preventing that desirable crunch.

When it's time to shape the hash browns, be sure to press the mixture firmly into small pancake shapes. A loose formation may result in them falling apart while cooking. I recommend making them about ½ inch thick. This thickness allows for a perfectly golden exterior while ensuring that the insides remain soft and cheesy—just the right balance of textures.

Ingredient Insights

Using sharp cheddar cheese not only adds bold flavor but also helps bind the ingredients together. If you're looking for dairy-free alternatives, consider using a nut-based cheese or a vegan cheese blend. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary, so you may want to adjust the seasonings slightly to enhance the taste.

The combination of garlic powder and onion powder elevates the flavor profile significantly. If you want a bit more kick, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a hint of heat and depth. These small adjustments can transform your hash browns and make them uniquely yours!

Make-Ahead and Storage

A great aspect of these hash browns is their versatility. You can prepare the riced cauliflower and cheese mixture ahead of time, storing it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to cook, simply form and fry them fresh for a delightful breakfast experience.

For leftovers, allow the hash browns to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for about 3–4 days. To reheat, I suggest using a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side to regain that wonderful crispiness—microwaving can lead to a soggy texture, so keep that in mind!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious hash browns:

Ingredients

1 medium head of cauliflower, riced
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for frying

Make sure to chop and prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns:

Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by removing the florets from the cauliflower head and place them in a food processor. Pulse until you achieve a rice-like texture. Transfer the riced cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel, and squeeze out any excess moisture—this is crucial for crispiness!

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the riced cauliflower, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully combined.

Form Hash Browns

Using your hands, form the mixture into small pancake-like shapes, pressing firmly to hold them together.

Cook the Hash Browns

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the hash browns in batches for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Add more oil as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the hash browns from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns!

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or seasonings based on your taste preferences!

Pro Tips

Ensure to remove as much moisture from the cauliflower as possible for the best texture. You can also freeze any leftovers for a quick breakfast option later.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Cauliflower Hash Browns are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of toppings. Consider serving them alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy contrast. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can add a lovely aromatic touch as well, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.

For a heartier meal, try stacking them with poached eggs on top. The runny yolk adds richness that complements the cheesy, savory bite of the hash browns. Additionally, a side of avocado or a fresh salad can bring a refreshing balance to the dish.

Variations to Try

Feel free to mix in other vegetables to the riced cauliflower for added nutrition and flavor. Ingredients like finely chopped spinach, grated zucchini, or even bell peppers can elevate the dish while keeping it colorful and appetizing. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture from any vegetables added to maintain that crispy texture.

If you're a fan of different cheeses, try substituting the cheddar with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Each cheese will impart its unique character to the hash browns, allowing you to experiment and find your perfect combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these hash browns ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ Can I use frozen riced cauliflower?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing the ingredients.

→ What can I serve with these hash browns?

They pair well with eggs, avocado, or as a side dish for any meal.

→ Are these hash browns gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free, making these hash browns a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.