How To Cook Frozen Hash Browns In The Microwave

Categorized as Microwave Cooking
How To Cook Frozen Hash Browns In The Microwave

Oh, you’re standing in front of the frozen hash browns in the grocery store, and you’re hungry. You’re thinking, “Can I cook these in the microwave? I don’t want to wait forever for these to cook in the oven.” And if so, what are the right steps?

That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll walk you through the steps of cooking frozen hash browns in the microwave, as well as offer some helpful tips and tricks.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll be an expert on microwave hash browns!

Can You Microwave Frozen Hash Browns?

The answer is yes, in most cases. Almost all frozen hash browns can be prepared in the microwave, although it’s always a good idea to check the package directions first or visit the manufacturer’s website.

Some people believe that hash browns are better when cooked in the oven, but microwaving is a much quicker way to do it. If you’re in a hurry and need to get breakfast on the table fast, nuking your hash browns is the way to go.

Some brands of frozen hash browns will have special instructions for microwave cooking, such as coating your plate with cooking spray before microwaving or wrapping the hash browns in a paper towel.

These steps help to prevent sticking and ensure that the hash browns cook evenly and don’t end up rubbery or tough.

If you can’t find any special instructions, don’t worry. You can cook most frozen hash browns in the microwave using the same basic method.

Here are the basic steps for microwaving frozen hash browns:

  1. Place the frozen hash browns on a microwave-safe plate or mug.
  2. If necessary, add a little water or oil to the container to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Cover the hash browns with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
  4. Zap them on high power for 1 ½ minute, turn them over, and then repeat for another minute or so.
  5. Allow the hash browns to cool for a minute before serving.

Is It Safe to Microwave Frozen Hash Browns?

It is safe to cook frozen hash browns in the microwave, as long as you follow the package directions or the basic cooking steps outlined. Another safety tip is to make sure your hash browns are stored properly.

When storing frozen hash browns, you should use freezer containers or resealable bags. This will help to keep the hash browns fresh for up to 1 year. In addition, be sure to label the containers or bags with the date so that you can easily keep track of when they were frozen.

If you have leftover ash browns, you can store them in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. When reheating, make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

This is the temperature at which bacteria and other harmful organisms are killed. If you don’t cook the hash browns long enough or if they are not heated to a high enough temperature, you run the risk of food poisoning.

You can use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the hash browns. Simply insert the thermometer into the center of the hash brown to get an accurate reading.

How Long to Microwave Frozen Hash Browns?

The answer may vary depending on the brand of hash browns, the wattage of your microwave, and the number of hash browns you’re cooking. In general, though, it will take 1½ – 2 minutes to cook frozen hash browns in the microwave.

If you’re making a lot of hash browns, you may need to flip them and cook them for an additional one and a half minutes or so. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to nuke in short bursts and check on them frequently.

How To Microwave Frozen Hash Browns – Step by Step

Here are the instructions for cooking frozen hash browns in the microwave:

1. Remove the frozen hash browns from the freezer and place them on a microwave-safe plate

I often use a mug if I just want to cook two hash browns. They fit perfectly in a regular-size mug. However, be aware that the hash browns will lose their shape if you cook them in a mug, so if you want them to stay in neat patties, use a plate instead.

2. If necessary, add a little water or oil to the container to prevent them from drying out

Depending on the brand of hash browns, you may or may not need to add water or oil. I generally don’t add anything, but if your hash browns seem dry, you can give them a quick spritz of water or add a drop or two of oil.

3. Cover the hash browns with a microwave-safe lid or plate

This will help to keep them moist as they cook. If you don’t have a lid, you can use other microwave-safe dishes to cover the hash browns. The best choice would be a cover made from glass or ceramic.

4. Cook the hash browns on high power for 1½ minutes, turn them over, and then repeat for another minute or so

If your hash browns are frozen, you don’t need to defrost them before microwaving. Because of their small size and thin shape, hash browns can be cooked directly from the freezer.

If you cook just a few hash brown, I find that 1½ minutes on high power is usually enough. There’s no need to flip them. But if you cook a lot of hash browns or if they’re very thick, you may need to turn them over and cook for an additional one or two minutes.

5. Allow the hash browns to rest for a minute before serving

Once the hash browns are cooked, allow them to sit for a minute or two inside the microwave so that they can finish cooking through.

The #1 Tip For Extra Crispy Hash Browns

The main con of cooking hash browns in the microwave is that it lacks the crispy edges that make hash browns so delicious. When you cook hash browns in the microwave, the edges get soggy and soft, instead of crispy and golden brown.

This happens to all microwave-cooked foods, not just hash browns. However, thanks to an invention called the microwave crisper you can now cook hash browns (and other foods) in the microwave and get crisp, delicious results.

To use a microwave crisper, simply preheat the crisper pan first for one or two minutes on high power. Then place your hash browns (or other food) in the pan and cook as directed.

After cooking, the hash browns should be crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Yum!

Can You Reheat Leftover Hash Browns in the Microwave?

You can reheat hash browns in the microwave, but reheating more than once is not recommended. This is because the hash browns will continue to cook and dry out each time you reheat them, resulting in tough, dry hash browns.

To reheat hash browns in the microwave, simply place them on a plate and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Add a little water or oil if they seem dry.

Conclusion

That’s how you cook frozen hash browns in the microwave. It’s a quick and easy way to cook hash brown patties with little effort. Just remember to use a microwave crisper if you want extra crispy results. Enjoy!

By Rosie Elliott

I’m Rosie. I’m a professional chef with experience in Western, Mediterranean, and Italian cuisine. I’ve been cooking for over 15 years, and I have two daughters that keep me busy!