There is simply nothing like waking up to a hearty, comforting skillet brimming with all the flavors and textures you crave, and that’s exactly what this Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe delivers. Imagine crispy, golden potatoes mingling with tender bell peppers, savory sausage, and a hint of smoky paprika, all topped by perfectly cooked eggs and a gooey blanket of cheddar cheese. This dish isn’t just breakfast; it’s a cozy, satisfying experience that will have you eager to gather around the table and start your day the right way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to build layers of delightful flavor and texture in this recipe. Each component plays a key role, from the crispy potatoes adding heartiness and color to the bright bell peppers and onions bringing sweetness and crunch.
- Olive oil: Provides the perfect base for cooking and helps everything brown beautifully.
- Breakfast sausage or bacon (1/2 pound, chopped): Adds savory, meaty depth to the hash; feel free to choose your favorite.
- Small onion (diced): Brings sweetness and a touch of sharpness once cooked down.
- Red bell pepper (diced): Adds vibrant color and a mild, sweet flavor.
- Green bell pepper (diced): Offers a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and complexity.
- Russet potatoes (4 medium, peeled and diced small): The hearty backbone of this hash, crisping up wonderfully.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle smoky kick that lifts the savory notes.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of heat and earthiness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle spicy zing, if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into the hash to create layers of creamy indulgence.
- Large eggs (4): Serve as the crowning glory, adding richness and protein.
- Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish): Bring freshness and a pop of color to the final dish.
How to Make Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage or bacon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. This step builds the savory foundation of the dish, so take your time letting those flavors develop. Once cooked, remove the meat and set aside, leaving about a tablespoon of the drippings in the pan for added flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Next, toss the diced russet potatoes into the skillet with the reserved drippings and cook, stirring occasionally. Let them cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are fork-tender. This is where the hash starts to come alive, with the potatoes’ crispy edges contrasting perfectly against their pillowy insides.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Once the potatoes are nearly done, add the diced onions, red and green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for another 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften and their sweet, aromatic flavors meld together. This mix adds both color and texture to the dish, creating a beautiful medley.
Step 4: Season and Combine
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the skillet. Stir well to ensure every morsel is coated with these warm spices. Return the cooked sausage or bacon to the pan and fold everything together, allowing those flavors to become a harmonious blend.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Scatter the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the hash, then reduce the heat to low. Let the cheese melt slowly over the warm mixture, making the whole dish irresistibly gooey without burning.
Step 6: Cook the Eggs
In a separate nonstick skillet, prepare your eggs however you prefer—fried, scrambled, or even poached. The eggs add a creamy, rich element that perfectly complements the savory hash underneath.
Step 7: Assembly and Garnish
Plate the cheesy, savory hash and top each serving with a perfectly cooked egg. Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley over the top for a final touch of brightness and freshness that elevates the dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Serve Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like green onions or parsley add that lovely contrast of color and a mild oniony freshness that cuts through the richness. For a little extra flair, try adding slices of ripe avocado or a drizzle of hot sauce to give your plate an exciting pop of flavor.
Side Dishes
This hash is quite the star on its own, but pairing it with simple toast or fresh fruit can round out the meal beautifully. A side of tangy yogurt or fresh salsa can provide complementary flavors that keep things exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch twist, serve the hash inside crispy tortilla bowls or stuff it into bell pepper halves before topping with eggs and cheese. This not only amps up the presentation but makes the meal feel extra special and shareable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover hash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to four days, making it an easy grab-and-go option for busy mornings or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save the hash for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. To help maintain the best texture, freeze the hash without the eggs and add fresh ones when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the hash in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Add the eggs freshly cooked to preserve their texture and flavor. Microwaving is fine too, but reheating on the stovetop gives you the best result for crispiness and taste.
FAQs
Can I make this hash vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage or bacon and swap in your favorite plant-based protein or extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. The smoked paprika adds plenty of smoky flavor to keep it satisfying.
What type of potatoes works best?
Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture that crisps up nicely, but sweet potatoes can add a delightful sweetness and vibrant color if you’re looking to mix it up.
Can I prepare the hash ahead of time for a crowd?
Yes, you can prep the potato and veggie mix a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Just cook the sausage and eggs fresh on the day to keep everything tasting its best.
How spicy is this recipe?
The dish includes optional crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. You can leave them out if you prefer mild flavors or add more if you love some heat.
What’s the best way to cook the eggs?
Personal preference plays a big role here! Fried eggs with runny yolks create a luscious sauce for the hash, while scrambled eggs provide a fluffy texture. Both work wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe is your go-to. It’s straightforward, comforting, and endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekend brunches. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen—it’s breakfast happiness, one crispy bite at a time.
Print
Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Loaded Breakfast Hash recipe combines crispy potatoes, savory sausage or bacon, colorful bell peppers, and melty cheddar cheese for a hearty and satisfying morning meal. Topped with perfectly cooked eggs and fresh green onions or parsley, this skillet dish is perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch that’s full of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1/2 pound breakfast sausage or bacon (chopped)
Vegetables
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced small)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
Instructions
- Cook the meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped breakfast sausage or bacon and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove the meat and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pan.
- Cook the potatoes: Add diced russet potatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes until they are golden brown and fork-tender.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add diced onion, red and green bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
- Season the hash: Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the potato and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Combine with meat and cheese: Return the cooked sausage or bacon to the skillet, stirring to blend everything together. Then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Reduce heat to low to let the cheese melt slightly.
- Prepare the eggs: In a separate nonstick skillet, cook the eggs to your liking—fried or scrambled.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy breakfast hash, top with the cooked eggs, and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use sweet potatoes in place of russet potatoes for a different flavor and added sweetness.
- Top your hash with avocado slices or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the meat or substitute with a plant-based sausage alternative.
