McDonald's Hash Brown: Calories & Nutrition
Per serving (56g (2 oz)). Source: McDonald's USA Nutrition Facts, March 2026.
The McDonald's Hash Brown is a crispy, golden breakfast side made from shredded potatoes. Introduced as a breakfast menu staple, it has become one of the most popular morning items at McDonald's. At just 140 calories, it is a relatively light side dish. The majority of calories come from fat (8g) due to the frying process, while the 18g of carbohydrates come from the potato itself. With only 2g of protein, the Hash Brown is best paired with a protein-rich item like the Egg McMuffin for a balanced breakfast. Each piece is formed into a distinctive oval shape and fried until the exterior is golden and crunchy while the interior stays soft and fluffy.
Full Nutrition Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 140 | 7% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 7% |
| Fat | 8g | 10% |
| Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Sugar | 0g | 0% |
| Sodium | 310mg | 13% |
% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA reference).
What's in a McDonald's Hash Brown?
Calorie and macro contribution of each ingredient.
| Ingredient | Cal | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shredded Potatoes | 80 | 1g | 15g | 1g |
| Frying Oil (absorbed) | 60 | 0g | 0g | 7g |
Daily Intake
7% of a 2,000-calorie diet. 1860 calories remaining.
Burn Off 140 Cal
Estimates for a 70 kg (154 lb) person. See all activities
Make It at Home: Hash Brown Recipe
A homemade version of the McDonald's Hash Brown with similar nutrition and flavor.
Ingredients
- •1 large russet potato (about 300g / 10.5 oz)
- •2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Peel and shred the russet potato using a box grater or food processor. Place the shredded potato in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
- 2
Season the shredded potato with salt and pepper. Toss to distribute evenly.
- 3
Divide the mixture into two equal portions and form each into an oval patty about 1cm (1/2 inch) thick, pressing firmly so the patty holds together.
- 4
Heat the oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Similar Dishes
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a McDonald's Hash Brown?
A McDonald's Hash Brown contains 140 calories, with 2g of protein, 18g of carbohydrates, and 8g of fat. It also has 2g of fiber and 310mg of sodium. At 140 calories, it is one of the lighter items on the McDonald's breakfast menu.
Are McDonald's Hash Browns gluten-free?
No, McDonald's Hash Browns are not gluten-free. They contain wheat and milk derivatives in their ingredient list. The dehydrated potatoes include sodium acid pyrophosphate to prevent browning, and the coating contains wheat-derived ingredients. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this item.
How many hash browns can I eat on a diet?
At 140 calories each, one Hash Brown is a reasonable breakfast side that fits within most calorie-controlled diets. Two would add 280 calories, which may be too much for a calorie-restricted plan, especially when paired with a full breakfast sandwich. If you are following a 1,500-calorie diet, one Hash Brown represents about 9% of your daily intake.
What goes well with a McDonald's Hash Brown?
The Hash Brown pairs well with an Egg McMuffin (310 cal) for a 450-calorie breakfast with 19g of combined protein. You could also pair it with a black coffee (5 cal) to keep the total meal light. For a heartier breakfast, combine it with a Sausage McMuffin (400 cal) for a 540-calorie meal, though this combination is higher in fat.
Track Your Own Hash Brown
Restaurant portions vary. Snap a photo of your actual hash brown and CaloBurner will calculate the exact calories and macros for your serving.
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