Learn how to make homemade hash browns the easy way.

Heres how to make perfecthash browns: Know that excess water is the enemy.

Well show you how to cook hash browns in a frying panthe best way to make homemade hash browns.

Perfect Hash Browns

Credit: Blaine Moats

But first, check that you choose the best potatoes for your hash browns.

Start with a package of frozen or refrigerated shredded or cubed hash browns.

Check the label for the most accurate directions, but heres a good rule of thumb to start.

colander lined with a paper towel with shredded potatoes

Credit:BHG / Sonia Bozzo

In a 12-inch skillet heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Carefully add 4 cups hash browns; spread evenly.

Cook 5 to 6 minutes.

pressing shredded potatoes to form a cake in pan

Credit:BHG / Sonia Bozzo

Drizzle top with 1 tablespoon oil.

Cook 5 to 7 minutes more until golden brown.

Coarsely shred potatoes using a handheld shredder or a food processor with a coarse shredding blade.

flipping finished hash brown out of pan

Credit:BHG / Sonia Bozzo

BHG / Sonia Bozzo

Place shredded potatoes in a large bowl; add enough cool water to cover potatoes.

Drain in a colander set in a sink.

Repeat rinsing and draining two or three times until water runs clear.

Drain again, pressing out as much water as you’re able to with a rubber spatula.

Line a salad spinner with paper towels; add potatoes and spin.

Repeat, if necessary, until potatoes are dry.

Transfer potatoes to a large bowl.

Sprinkle potatoes with salt and pepper, tossing to combine.

Add potatoes to the skillet, spreading into an even layer.

Gently press with the back of a spatula to form a cake.

Reduce heat to medium.

Cook, without stirring, about 12 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown and crisp.

Test Kitchen Tip: A skillet with sloping sides works particularly well.

Invert a baking sheet or plate over the top of the skillet.

If needed, add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet.

Using the baking sheet or plate, slide the potatoes back into the skillet, uncooked side down.

Cook, without stirring, about 8 minutes more or until the bottom is golden brown.

If desired, sprinkle with paprika before serving.

Make-Ahead Hash Browns Recipe

Shred potatoes as directed in Step 1.

Place shredded potatoes in a bowl of cool water.

Chill in the refrigerator overnight.

Rinse and continue with Steps 2 through 4 as directed.

2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.