Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups
Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups are little flavor-packed delights that transform ordinary hash browns into something truly special. Using simple ingredients, these cups combine crispy, golden potato goodness with the rich, savory flavor of Parmesan cheese. Imagine popping one of these crispy cups into your mouth, made even better by a sprinkle of fresh green onions. These bites are perfect for any gathering, and trust me, they’ll be gone before you know it!
Table of Contents
I first stumbled upon the idea of Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups at a family gathering. Everyone was searching for light snacks, and I thought, why not take the humble hash brown and turn it into a bite-sized wonder? This dish not only satisfied the crowd’s appetite but also sparked conversations and smiles. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just craving something crispy and cheesy, you’ll find that these cups are an effortless and budget-friendly choice. I can’t wait for you to try them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in about 35 minutes, these cups are perfect for a fast snack or appetizer.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of crispy potatoes and melt-in-your-mouth Parmesan offers a delightful flavor experience.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: These cute little cups are impressive on platters and perfect for parties.
- Flexible Serving: Great as an appetizer, party snack, or even for breakfast.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily customize toppings to accommodate dietary preferences!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (thawed): Essential for that crispy base. If fresh hash browns are available, they can be used too for an even fresher taste.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided): The star of the dish! Always opt for fresh cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- 2 large eggs: These bind everything together while adding richness. Make sure they are at room temperature for even incorporation.
- 2 green onions (chopped): Add freshness and crunch when sprinkled on top. Feel free to replace with chives if you prefer a milder flavor.
- 1 tsp salt: To enhance the overall flavor of the mixture; adjust according to your taste.
- ½ tsp black pepper: A little bit of warmth and spice goes a long way, but feel free to omit or replace with white pepper if desired.
How to Make Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, grease a muffin tin generously with nonstick spray; this prevents sticking and ensures your cups come out perfectly.
Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, half of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, the two large eggs, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or your hands to mix until everything is well combined and the hash browns are evenly coated.
Form the Cups: Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture into each muffin slot in the greased tin. Press down firmly to shape them into cups. This step is critical; ensure they are compact so that they hold their shape while baking.
Bake for Initial Time: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look out for a golden-brown hue and crisp edges—this is the key to getting that perfect hash brown texture.
Add Remaining Cheese: Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the cups. Pop them back in for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Top with the chopped green onions before serving warm. These little crispy cups are best enjoyed fresh but are still delicious as leftovers!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you have any leftovers after that, refrigerate them in a container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the cups for up to 3 months by placing them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until warmed through. Keep in mind the texture may soften a bit, but they will still taste divine!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Be sure to thaw the frozen hash browns completely; excess moisture can lead to soggy cups.
- If you like extra flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños with the hash browns.
- To ensure even baking, try to pack the potato mixture evenly into each muffin slot.
- If you want crunchier edges, bake these cups a little longer, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings! Customize based on your guests’ preferences.
Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups are a must-try in your kitchen adventures. They embrace the simplicity of ingredients while delivering astounding flavor and charming presentation. Whether enjoyed for a special occasion or just because, these cups invite creativity and experimentation, so don’t hesitate to tweak the recipe to make it your own. Dive into the crispy, cheesy goodness today!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh hash browns can be used for a more delicate texture. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing to ensure they hold their shape while baking.
How can I customize these hash brown cups?
The options are endless! You can mix in cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños for a kick, or even chopped herbs for added freshness. These cups are incredibly versatile, so feel free to play around with toppings and mix-ins.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill the muffin tin and follow the baking instructions. Just remember they taste best fresh out of the oven!
What should I serve with Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups?
These cups shine as a standalone snack, but they also pair well with dipping sauces such as sour cream, ranch, or even a spicy aioli. Add a fresh green salad for a complete meal or serve them alongside your favorite brunch items.
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📖 Recipe Card
Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups are delightfully crispy and cheesy, combining hash browns and eggs for a quick, comforting dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, mix thawed hash browns, half of the Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture into each muffin slot and press firmly to form cups.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Top with chopped green onions before serving warm.
Notes
Feel free to use other cheeses for variation, like cheddar or mozzarella.
Ensure the hash browns are well-thawed for better consistency when forming cups.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
