How to Cook Ore-Ida Diced Hash Browns in the Oven
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty breakfast idea, look no further than Ore-Ida diced hash browns. These delicious potato bites are seasoned to perfection, making them a perfect match for your morning eggs or omelets.
Today, we’ll show you how to cook Ore-Ida diced hash browns in the oven. Not only will baking them this way give you a crispy exterior, but it’s also an easy way to have your potatoes ready while you focus on other things like cooking bacon or preparing coffee.
Introduction
Before we dive into the recipe itself, let’s talk about what exactly Ore-Ida diced hash browns are and why baking them in the oven is so beneficial. Ore-Ida is a brand that specializes in frozen potatoes, including french fries, tater tots, and yes – diced hash browns.
These pre-made potato bites offer convenience and speed on busy mornings. But cooking them in the oven instead of frying or microwaving them gives them a satisfying crispiness that doesn’t come with other cooking methods.
In addition to providing that crispy texture, baking hash browns in the oven allows you to make multiple servings at once. This is perfect if you’re feeding a family or having friends over for brunch.
Recipe Variations
This recipe will showcase one basic way to bake Ore-Ida diced hash browns in the oven. But feel free to add your own twists! Here are some suggestions:
- Add chopped onions or peppers for added flavor
- Mix shredded cheese into the potatoes for some cheesy goodness
- Use different seasoning blends such as garlic powder or paprika for variety
Ingredients and Materials
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 bag of Ore Ida Diced Hash Browns
- Oil (or non-stick spray)
- Salt and pepper (optional)
Aside from the ingredients, you’ll also need a baking sheet and an oven preheated to 425°F.
Preparing the Hash Browns
Thawing
Before cooking, it’s important to thaw your Ore-Ida diced hash browns. This will ensure they cook evenly throughout. There are two ways to do this:
- Overnight in the fridge – If you know you’re going to be making breakfast in the morning, move your bag of hash browns from the freezer to the fridge before you go to bed.
- Quick-thawing at room temperature – If you don’t have time for overnight thawing, take the frozen hash browns out of their packaging and let them sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Seasoning
Once your hash browns are thawed, now is a good time to add some optional seasoning if desired. Some folks prefer salt and pepper, while others might enjoy garlic powder or other seasonings. It’s up to you!
Cooking Instructions
Now that your potatoes are thawed and seasoned, it’s time to bake them in the oven! Here are our step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Grab a baking sheet and cover it with oil or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Spread Out Your Hash Browns
Dump one full bag of Ore-Ida diced hash browns onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula or fork to spread them out evenly across the pan.
Step 3: Bake for Crispiness
Bake your potatoes until they’re golden brown and crispy around the edges. For a thin layer of hash browns, this should take about 12-15 minutes on one side/
If you made a thicker layer of potatoes on your baking sheet, you’ll need to flip them halfway through cooking. This will ensure that each side gets crispy and golden brown. Give them another 12-15 minutes on the other side before checking for doneness.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
There are a few visual cues you can look for to see if your Ore-Ida diced hash browns are done cooking:
- The potatoes should be an even golden brown all over
- They should be crispy and break apart easily with a fork If they still seem undercooked, give them another couple of minutes in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Once your hash browns are cooked to perfection, it’s time to eat! Here are some pairing suggestions:
- Cook up some eggs and bacon for a classic breakfast platter
- Use the hash browns as a base for breakfast burritos or tacos
- Top with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for added flavor
Additionally, garnish ideas include chopped green onions or fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.
Tips for Success
While Ore Ida diced hash browns are easy to cook, there are some common issues that can arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
Dealing with Sogginess / Undercooked Hash Browns
Sometimes potatoes can come out moist instead of crispy. This is often due to excess moisture on the baking sheet or overcrowding the pan. Try patting the potatoes dry beforehand and spreading them out thin on the sheet.
Dealing with Burned Edges / Overcooking
On the flip side, sometimes potatoes can come out too dark around the edges. This is often due to leaving them in too long without flipping or using an oven that runs hot. Check on your potatoes frequently during cook-time and adjust as needed.
Conclusion
Baking Ore Ida diced hash browns in the oven is an excellent way to get crispy, flavorful potatoes without the hassle of frying. With some simple seasoning and a little patience in the oven, you’ll have a delicious breakfast staple that can be paired with anything else on your plate. Don’t forget to experiment with new flavors and garnishes to keep things interesting!
Q&A
Q1. Can I cook Ore-Ida diced hash browns on a baking sheet in the oven?
Yes, you can easily cook Ore-Ida diced hash browns in the oven using a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 425°F and spread the frozen hash browns evenly on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
Q2. Do I need to thaw Ore-Ida diced hash browns before cooking them in the oven?
No, there is no need to thaw Ore-Ida diced hash browns before cooking them in the oven. You can directly bake them from frozen by following the package instructions or our recipe above.
Q3. What are some creative ways to season Ore-Ida diced hash browns before baking them?
There are plenty of seasoning options that will make your Ore-Ida diced hash browns more flavorful and exciting! Some ideas include adding garlic powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, cajun seasoning, dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary), grated parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.
Q4. Can I use parchment paper instead of spraying my baking sheet when cooking Ore-Ida diced hash browns in the oven?
Yes, you can definitely use parchment paper instead of spraying your baking sheet when cooking Ore-Ida diced hash browns in the oven. Simply line your baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper that fits snugly and place the frozen hash browns on top. Bake as directed above for perfectly crispy results without sticking!
