Frika Potato and Cheese Hash is a crispy, golden-brown potato dish packed with melted cheese and simple seasonings. This comforting and hearty dish originates from European alpine regions, where it’s loved for its rich flavor and crispy texture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a side dish, this cheesy potato hash is incredibly satisfying and easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Cheesy – Golden brown potatoes with gooey, melty cheese.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Versatile Dish – Enjoy as a main dish or side for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Comfort Food Classic – Rich, hearty, and satisfying.
- Customizable – Add herbs, meats, or vegetables to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, grated)
- Cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or Cheddar, grated)
- Butter or olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs (chives or parsley, for garnish)
Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Grate the potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using.
Step 2: Cook the Hash
- Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the grated potatoes and press them down into an even layer.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
Step 3: Add Cheese & Flip
- Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the potatoes.
- Carefully flip the hash (or fold it in half like an omelet) and cook for another 3-5 minutes until crispy and melted.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Bacon & Cheese Frika – Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Spicy Frika – Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Veggie Hash – Add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Herbed Frika – Use rosemary, thyme, or dill for a fresh twist.
- Extra Crispy Version – Cook in duck fat or bacon grease for extra crispiness.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as potatoes can become mushy.
FAQs
What’s the best potato for Frika?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for crispiness and texture.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly grated cheese melts better, but pre-shredded can work.
How do I keep my potatoes from sticking?
Use a well-greased non-stick or cast-iron skillet and let the potatoes cook undisturbed.
Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What cheese melts best?
Gruyère, Swiss, and Cheddar are great choices for their meltability.
How do I get extra crispy edges?
Squeeze out excess moisture from the potatoes before cooking and use high heat.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based cheese and oil instead of butter.
Can I add eggs to this?
Absolutely! Serve with a fried or poached egg on top for extra richness.
How do I flip the hash without breaking it?
Use a large spatula or slide it onto a plate and flip it back into the pan.
What’s the best way to serve Frika?
Enjoy it as a main dish, with sour cream, or as a side with eggs and sausage.
Conclusion
This Frika Potato and Cheese Hash is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that combines crispy potatoes with gooey cheese. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or a side dish, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today for a comforting and satisfying meal!
PrintFrika Potato and Cheese Hash
This Frika Potato and Cheese Hash is a rustic, crispy potato dish loaded with melted cheese. Inspired by traditional European-style potato hash, it’s simple yet packed with flavor. Serve it as a standalone dish or with eggs and bacon for a complete meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 20-22 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European-inspired
Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
2. Cook the Hash:
- Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the grated potatoes, spreading them evenly in the pan.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, pressing down occasionally, until the bottom is crispy and golden brown.
3. Add the Cheese & Flip:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the potatoes.
- Use a spatula to carefully flip sections of the hash, allowing the cheese to melt and crisp up.
- Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is golden and gooey.
4. Serve & Garnish:
- Transfer to a plate and sprinkle with Parmesan (if using) and fresh parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy with eggs, bacon, or sour cream on the side!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, soak grated potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes, then dry thoroughly before cooking.
- Try different cheeses: Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda work well.
- Make it heartier: Add cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed onions for extra flavor.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for 2 days and reheat in a skillet for best texture.