why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the best of two worlds—crispy hashbrowns and loaded baked potato toppings—into one easy, delicious bite. The air fryer gives the hashbrowns a perfectly crunchy texture without excess oil, and the combination of cheddar, sour cream, beef, and ranch seasoning delivers a full flavor punch. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings or a satisfying snack anytime.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Hashbrown patties
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp chives (fresh or dried)
• 1 tsp ranch seasoning
• Crumbled cooked beef (seasoned or leftover)
• Additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping
• Extra chives and ranch for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place hashbrown patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.

3. Remove the basket and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each hashbrown.

4. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts.

5. Meanwhile, mix the sour cream, chives, and ranch seasoning in a small bowl until well combined.

6. Remove the hashbrowns from the air fryer and top each with a dollop of the sour cream mixture.

7. Add crumbled beef on top, then garnish with extra shredded cheddar, chives, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.

8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings, depending on the number of hashbrown patties you prepare.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 23-25 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef for a different protein option.

• Swap ranch seasoning for taco seasoning for a southwestern twist.

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter topping.

• Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place hashbrowns in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

How do I make these hashbrowns vegan or vegetarian?

Use a plant-based cheese and substitute crumbled beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a vegan meat alternative.

Can I bake these in the oven instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, bake hashbrown patties at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add cheese and bake for an extra 5 minutes.

What brand of ranch seasoning do you recommend?

Any good-quality ranch seasoning mix will work. You can also make your own by combining dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Can I prepare the sour cream topping in advance?

Yes, mix the sour cream, chives, and ranch seasoning up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

How do I cook the crumbled beef?

Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices.

Can I use frozen hashbrown patties straight from the freezer?

Yes, no need to thaw. Cook directly from frozen in the air fryer following the same timing.

What’s a good side dish for loaded hashbrowns?

Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness.

Can I use shredded cheese other than cheddar?

Absolutely! Pepper jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend work well.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Check the ranch seasoning and any pre-packaged hashbrowns to ensure they are labeled gluten-free.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the hashbrowns in the oven as described above or pan-fry them in a little oil until crispy.

Conclusion

Loaded hashbrowns bring all the comforting, familiar flavors of a loaded baked potato into a crispy, convenient snack or appetizer. The combination of melty cheddar, seasoned beef, and tangy sour cream with ranch and chives makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings, it’s a fantastic option whether you’re feeding guests or just craving something delicious. Give it a try and enjoy a perfect bite every time.

Crispy Loaded Hashbrowns: The Ultimate Snack or Appetizer

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Crispy air-fried hashbrown patties topped with melty cheddar, savory crumbled beef, and a tangy ranch-chive sour cream mix, perfect as a snack or appetizer.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 23-25 minutes
• Total Time: 28-30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Snack, Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Hashbrown patties (4-8 pieces depending on servings)

Shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup, divided)

1/2 cup sour cream

1 tbsp chives (fresh or dried)

1 tsp ranch seasoning

Crumbled cooked beef (seasoned or leftover, about 1/2 cup)

Additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Extra chives and ranch dressing for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place hashbrown patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.
3. Remove the basket and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each hashbrown.
4. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts.
5. Meanwhile, mix the sour cream, chives, and ranch seasoning in a small bowl until well combined.
6. Remove the hashbrowns from the air fryer and top each with a dollop of the sour cream mixture.
7. Add crumbled beef on top, then garnish with extra shredded cheddar, chives, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Use ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef for a different protein option.
• Swap ranch seasoning for taco seasoning for a southwestern twist.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter topping.
• Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.
• For vegan/vegetarian, use plant-based cheese and substitute beef with lentils, mushrooms, or vegan meat.
• You can bake instead of air frying: 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, then add cheese and bake 5 more minutes.
• Ensure ranch seasoning and hashbrowns are gluten-free if needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 hashbrown patties with toppings)
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg