Loaded Breakfast Hash is the ultimate hearty breakfast or brunch dish that combines crispy potatoes, savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked eggs into one irresistible skillet. Bursting with flavors and textures, this dish is endlessly customizable and comes together in a single pan, making it both easy to prepare and a delight to serve. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, fueling up for a busy day, or craving breakfast-for-dinner, this Loaded Breakfast Hash is a crowd-pleasing recipe that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Loaded Breakfast Hash is a one-pan wonder that combines all your breakfast favorites in a single, satisfying dish. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any time of day. The crispy potatoes form a golden base for a medley of flavorful ingredients, from savory sausage or bacon to vibrant veggies and rich, runny eggs. Plus, it’s an ideal recipe for meal prep or using up leftovers. Whether you’re feeding a large group or treating yourself, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious.
Preparation Time and Servings:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Serving Size: Approximately 1½ cups
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
Ingredients
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 ounces breakfast sausage (or bacon, diced)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Dice the potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes for even cooking. Place the diced potatoes in a large bowl and toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned potatoes and spread them out into an even layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage or Bacon
In the same skillet, add the breakfast sausage (or diced bacon) and cook over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If using bacon, cook until crisp. Remove the cooked sausage or bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of fat in the pan for the vegetables.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet if needed. Toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until they release their moisture and turn golden. If using spinach, stir it in during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to wilt.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked potatoes and sausage (or bacon) to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together to combine, creating an even layer in the skillet.
Step 6: Add the Eggs
Using the back of a spoon, make four small wells in the hash mixture. Crack one egg into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny. For fully cooked eggs, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Optional Toppings
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hash during the last minute of cooking. Garnish the finished hash with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the Loaded Breakfast Hash straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Pair it with toast, avocado slices, or a dollop of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Ingredient Background
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for hash due to their buttery flavor and ability to crisp up beautifully when pan-fried. You can substitute them with red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a twist.
- Breakfast Sausage or Bacon: Both options add a savory, smoky flavor to the dish. Turkey sausage or plant-based sausage can be used for a healthier or vegetarian-friendly version.
- Bell Peppers and Mushrooms: These vegetables add sweetness, earthiness, and a pop of color, making the hash visually appealing and nutrient-dense.
- Eggs: A classic addition to breakfast hash, eggs tie the dish together and add a rich, creamy element.
Technique Tips
- Perfectly Crispy Potatoes: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the potatoes. Crowding traps steam, which prevents them from crisping up.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet retains heat evenly, creating a perfectly golden crust on the potatoes and enhancing the flavors of the dish.
- Timing the Eggs: To achieve runny yolks, keep a close eye on the eggs as they cook. Covering the skillet helps the egg whites cook evenly while leaving the yolks soft.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Sheet Pan Hash: Instead of cooking everything in a skillet, spread the potatoes, sausage, and vegetables on a sheet pan. Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, then add the eggs and bake until set.
- Breakfast Bowls: Serve the hash over a bed of greens or cooked quinoa for a nutritious breakfast bowl.
- Individual Portions: Divide the hash mixture into ramekins, crack an egg into each, and bake until the eggs are done.
Additional Tips for Success
- Parboil the potatoes before pan-frying for even cooking and extra crispiness.
- Use pre-cooked sausage or bacon to save time during busy mornings.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Hash: Replace the sausage or bacon with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or tomatoes.
- Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, and a dash of chili powder. Top with avocado, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
- Cheesy Hash: Stir in a mix of shredded cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or feta for a melty, gooey texture.
- Herbed Hash: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for an aromatic twist.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Freezing: Allow the hash to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the hash in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a boost of vitamins A and C.
- Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a leaner protein option.
- Add more greens like kale or arugula for extra nutrients.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Brunch Party: Serve the hash with a spread of sides like fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, and croissants for a complete brunch menu.
- Holiday Breakfast: Pair the hash with mimosas and freshly squeezed juice for a celebratory breakfast.
- Breakfast-for-Dinner: Round out the meal with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a satisfying dinner option.
Special Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for achieving crispy potatoes and even cooking.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula makes flipping the potatoes and stirring the hash easy.
- Lid for the Skillet: Helps the eggs cook evenly without drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes or hash browns can save time. Just make sure to cook them until crispy before adding the other ingredients.
2. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The hash will still be flavorful without it.
3. What’s the best way to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?
Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the potatoes, and avoid moving them too often during cooking. Adding enough oil also helps prevent sticking.
4. Can I cook the eggs separately?
Yes, you can fry or scramble the eggs in a separate pan and serve them on top of the hash.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage and skip the eggs or use tofu scramble as a substitute.
6. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, simply use a larger skillet or prepare the hash in two batches. Keep the first batch warm in the oven while cooking the second.
7. How do I make the hash spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, red chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the hash for extra heat.
8. Can I add other proteins to the hash?
Certainly! Shredded chicken, diced ham, or even leftover steak work wonderfully in this recipe.
Conclusion
Loaded Breakfast Hash is a recipe that embodies the best of breakfast in one skillet. With its crispy potatoes, savory proteins, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked eggs, it’s the ultimate combination of flavor, texture, and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this hash is a versatile and satisfying option. Customize it to your taste, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a breakfast or brunch that’s as delightful as it is filling. Try it today and make it your new go-to breakfast classic!
Print
Loaded Breakfast Hash
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 ounces breakfast sausage (or bacon, diced)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Dice the potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes for even cooking. Place the diced potatoes in a large bowl and toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned potatoes and spread them out into an even layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage or Bacon
In the same skillet, add the breakfast sausage (or diced bacon) and cook over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If using bacon, cook until crisp. Remove the cooked sausage or bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of fat in the pan for the vegetables.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet if needed. Toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until they release their moisture and turn golden. If using spinach, stir it in during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to wilt.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked potatoes and sausage (or bacon) to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together to combine, creating an even layer in the skillet.
Step 6: Add the Eggs
Using the back of a spoon, make four small wells in the hash mixture. Crack one egg into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny. For fully cooked eggs, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Optional Toppings
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hash during the last minute of cooking. Garnish the finished hash with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the Loaded Breakfast Hash straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Pair it with toast, avocado slices, or a dollop of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1½ cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g