Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once it gets hot, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt, and tilt the pan to distribute evenly.
Place the hash browns in the hot pan in an even layer. Cube two of the remaining tablespoons of butter and dot it randomly on top of the hash browns, add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t stir or flip them for several minutes. They need time to form a crispy, brown layer.
16 ounces frozen shredded hash browns
After approximately 7-8 minutes, use a spatula to lift the edge of the hash browns. If the hash browns are brown, use the spatula to flip them over in sections and cook the other side. If they aren’t browned yet, allow them to continue to cook for a few more minutes.
In the meantime, begin grilling the onions. Heat a small pan over low-medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the last ½ tablespoon of butter and the diced onions. Use a wooden spoon to stir the onions every couple of minutes. The onions will begin to soften and become translucent. Remove from heat just as they begin to caramelize.
1 cup yellow onions
Check to see if the bottom side of the hash browns are crispy. If so, remove from heat. If not, allow them to cook for a few more minutes.
Heat the chili in a microwave-safe bowl on half power until the desired temperature is reached, or in a small pan on the stove top over low-medium heat.
10 ½ ounces chili
To assemble the hash browns, place ¼ of the cooked hash browns on a plate. Top with 2.625 ounces of warm chili. Add ½ ounce of shredded cheese to the top of the chili, then add 1-2 tablespoons of grilled onions.
2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
Notes
The calories listed are an approximation based on the ingredients and a serving size of 1/4 of the final product (4 ounces of hash browns, 1/4 cup onions, 2.625 ounces of chili, and 1/2 ounce of cheese per serving). Actual calories will vary. The shredded hash browns can be garnished with sliced jalapenos. I would not recommend storing any leftovers, as the fat and grease from the meal will make the hash browns soggy while setting in your fridge.