Loaded Breakfast Hash with Eggs

Loaded Breakfast Hash delivers everything you crave in a morning meal. Crispy golden potatoes tossed with savory sausage or bacon and colorful veggies become the perfect base for runny eggs and a blanket of melted cheddar. This all-in-one skillet breakfast is just as great for lazy weekend brunch as it is for a make-ahead weekday treat. The best part is you can swap in whatever extras you love to make it yours.

I first made this breakfast hash when hosting friends for brunch and everyone loved piling extra cheese on top Their requests for seconds told me I had found a new favorite for our breakfast rotation

Ingredients

• Diced potatoes: choose russet or Yukon Gold for a crispy outside and creamy inside Tip look for firm smooth potatoes without green spots
• Bell peppers: chopped for sweet flavor and a burst of color Choose bright peppers for the best flavor
• Yellow onion: diced which provides a savory depth Select onions with tight dry skins and no sprouting
• Large eggs: create perfect pockets of protein and richness in each bite Fresh eggs give the best results with creamy yolks
• Cooked sausage or bacon: crumbled adds savory intensity and protein Use high quality sausage or thick cut bacon for enhanced flavor
• Shredded cheddar cheese: gives the final melty delicious finish Opt for sharp cheddar if you like a stronger cheese taste
• Extra virgin olive oil: brings it all together and crisps up the potatoes beautifully Use fruity golden oil for best results
• Salt pepper and paprika: spice the hash and bring warmth Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness if you have it

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Vegetables:

Wash and dice potatoes into small even cubes for even cooking Chop bell peppers and onion into similarly sized pieces to ensure every bite has a little of everything

Brown the Potatoes:

Add olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium Cook diced potatoes for about ten to fifteen minutes stirring every few minutes until both sides are golden and the inside is tender This step builds the foundation of flavor and texture for the entire hash

Sauté the Veggies:

Stir in diced onion and bell peppers with the potatoes Continue cooking for about five minutes until the onion turns translucent and the peppers soften This creates a mix of sweet and savory aromas

Incorporate the Meat:

Add in your cooked crumbled sausage or bacon Stir everything together and cook just until the meat is warmed through Each bite gets a little bit of salty savory goodness

Create Egg Wells:

Make four shallow pockets in the hash using the back of a spoon Crack one egg into each well Cover the pan and let the eggs cook gently until the whites set but yolks remain runny This method keeps eggs nestled and perfectly cooked

Melt the Cheese:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the hot mixture Cover again and let the cheese melt down into every nook and cranny then serve right from the pan

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My favorite ingredient in this hash is the smoked paprika which brings a gentle warmth to the whole dish I always think of weekend breakfasts at my childhood home where we made big batches of hash to share the smell always got everyone out of bed early

Storage Tips

This breakfast hash keeps well in an airtight container for up to three days To reheat pop it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave I find that the potatoes remain crispier if reheated on the stovetop rather than microwaved Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the potatoes may become mushy

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not eat pork try using turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage links For dairy free versions sprinkle on your favorite plant based cheese blend Sometimes I swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor You can also toss in spinach or mushrooms for even more veggies

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Serving Suggestions

This dish shines as a stand alone breakfast but pairing it with avocado slices or a dollop of salsa takes it over the top For brunch serve with toasted sourdough and fresh fruit For a make ahead option scoop into meal prep containers and top with chopped herbs

Cultural Context

Breakfast hash originated as a classic way to use up leftovers with potatoes eggs and meat cooked together in a skillet Its roots go back centuries across American and European tables and today it is beloved for its versatility and comfort food status Every family seems to have their own take mine always included plenty of peppers and sharp cheddar

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?

Start with well-drained diced potatoes and preheat your skillet before adding them. Cook the potatoes until browned and avoid stirring too often, allowing a golden crust to form.

→ Can I use other meats instead of sausage or bacon?

Absolutely! Try diced ham, leftover steak, or even plant-based alternatives for different flavor profiles.

→ Are there vegetarian options for this dish?

Skip the meat and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, to keep it flavorful and satisfying.

→ What’s the best way to melt the cheese evenly?

Sprinkle cheese while the skillet is still hot, then cover with a lid. The steam helps melt the cheese smoothly over the entire hash.

→ How can I make this ahead for busy mornings?

Prepare the potato and vegetable mixture in advance and refrigerate. Reheat in a skillet, add eggs and cheese just before serving for freshness.