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Haunted Hash Browns: Crispy Ghost Shapes for Halloween Breakfast

Five golden-brown, crispy, ghost-shaped haunted hash browns decorated with peppercorn eyes on a white plate.

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Make fun, crispy ghost-shaped hash browns for a spooky Halloween breakfast or brunch. These potato ghosts use peppercorns for eyes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for frying
  • Whole peppercorns or small olive pieces for eyes

Instructions

  1. Grate the peeled potatoes using the large holes of a box grater.
  2. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Twist and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is key for crispy hash browns.
  3. Transfer the dried potatoes to a bowl. Add the flour, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine evenly.
  4. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers (about 350°F).
  5. Shape the potato mixture into small, flat ghost shapes directly in the hot oil. Make them about 1/2 inch thick. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. Fry for 4 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to keep them from burning before they cook through.
  7. Carefully remove the crispy hash browns with a slotted spatula and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. While the hash browns are still warm, press two whole peppercorns or small olive pieces into the top half of each ghost shape to create eyes.
  9. Serve immediately as part of your Halloween breakfast ideas or spooky brunch spread.

Notes

  • For the best shape, press the potato mixture firmly together before placing it in the hot oil.
  • If you do not have peppercorns, you can use small dots of ketchup or mustard after frying for the eyes, but this may make the surface less crispy.
  • Use a metal spatula to press down lightly on the ghosts while they cook to help them maintain a flat, even shape.

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