Classic Hamburger Hash

 

The Ingredients

For the Hash:

• 1½ lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (about 3-4 medium), scrubbed and diced into ½-inch cubes

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 gives the best flavor)

• 1 large yellow onion, diced

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, divided

• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds wonderful depth)

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, rosemary)

For Serving:

• Fried eggs (highly recommended)

• Ketchup or hot sauce

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

• Shredded cheese (cheddar is perfect)

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The Method: One Pan, Big Flavor

Step 1: Par-Cook the Potatoes (The Secret to Crispy Success)

1. Place diced potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons water. Cover and microwave for 4-5 minutes, until just starting to soften but not fully cooked.

2. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to crispy potatoes.

Alternatively: Boil potatoes in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain and dry thoroughly.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Heat a large skillet (cast-iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil.

2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until browned and cooked through, 6-8 minutes.

3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer beef to a plate, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet. The beef fat + oil combination is flavor gold.

2. Add the par-cooked potatoes in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until deeply golden brown on one side.

3. Stir and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and crispy on multiple sides.

Step 4: Add Onions and Aromatics

1. Push potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add onion to the empty space and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.

2. Add garlic, bell pepper, or mushrooms (if using) and cook for 2 minutes more.

3. Stir everything together with the potatoes.

Step 5: Combine and Season

1. Return the browned beef to the skillet.

2. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Add Worcestershire sauce or tomato paste if using.

3. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.

Step 6: Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with a fried egg if desired, and garnished with fresh herbs.