The Hashbrown Trend on TikTok: What It Is & Why It's Everywhere

How to Make the Viral Hashbrown Casserole

1. Prepare the Hashbrowns: Thaw a 30-ounce bag of frozen shredded hashbrowns. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which prevents a soggy casserole.
2. Create the Binding Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of chopped onion.
3. Combine and Season: Add the dried hashbrowns to the binding mixture. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir until all hashbrowns are evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with an additional 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

What Is the Best Method for Making Crispy Hashbrowns?

The best method for making crispy hashbrowns is the “squeeze and sear” technique, which involves removing as much moisture from the shredded potatoes as possible before cooking. According to a 2025 guide from Serious Eats, the key to achieving a golden-brown crust is to use a clean kitchen towel to wring out all liquid from the shredded potatoes. After squeezing, the potatoes are seasoned and then pressed into a hot skillet with a thin layer of oil. The hashbrowns are cooked undisturbed for 5-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat. This method, corroborated by America’s Test Kitchen in their 2025 cookbook, ensures a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

How to Replicate McDonald’s Hashbrowns at Home

Replicating McDonald’s hashbrowns at home requires a specific technique involving blanching, freezing, and double-frying. The process, popularized by food blogger Joshua Weissman in a 2025 video, involves first blanching shredded potatoes in boiling water for 2 minutes, then shocking them in an ice bath. After drying, the potatoes are formed into patties and frozen for at least 30 minutes. The frozen patties are then deep-fried at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This method creates the signature crispy exterior and fluffy interior that mimics the fast-food original.

What Are the Key Ingredients and Tools for the Hashbrown Trend?

The key ingredients for participating in the hashbrown trend are shredded potatoes (fresh or frozen), oil or butter for cooking, and salt for seasoning. Common toppings and mix-ins include shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, sour cream, chives, and avocado. Essential tools include a box grater or food processor for shredding, a clean kitchen towel for drying, and a non-stick skillet or waffle iron for cooking. For the casserole variation, a 9x13 inch baking dish is required. For the McDonald’s replica, a deep-fry thermometer is recommended for maintaining the correct oil temperature.

What Are the Health Considerations of the Hashbrown Trend?

The health considerations of the hashbrown trend are significant, as most popular variations are high in calories, fat, and sodium. A standard serving of the viral hashbrown casserole (approximately 1 cup) contains an estimated 350-400 calories, 25 grams of fat, and 800 milligrams of sodium, according to nutritional data from the USDA FoodData Central database. The deep-fried McDonald’s replica is even higher, with a single patty containing approximately 150 calories and 9 grams of fat. For a healthier alternative, users can bake or air-fry the hashbrowns and use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. According to the American Heart Association’s 2025 dietary guidelines, limiting fried potato consumption is recommended for heart health.