Skillet Breakfast Hash

If there’s one breakfast that never fails to impress my family and satisfy my own cravings, it’s this Skillet Breakfast Hash. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together in one pan — a major win for both taste and clean-up. I’ve made this hash on lazy Sunday mornings, during holiday brunches, and even for dinner when I wanted something comforting and simple. It always hits the spot.

What I love most about this recipe is how it blends crispy potatoes, savory sausage, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked eggs into a single dish. The textures and flavors work in harmony, and you can easily adjust it depending on what’s in your fridge. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish brings comfort with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Skillet Breakfast Hash

This dish is the definition of a crowd-pleaser. It’s rich, filling, and customizable. You get golden, crispy potato cubes, sizzling sausage or hot dogs, melted cheddar cheese, and sunny-side-up eggs — all in one skillet. It’s easy to prep, quick to cook, and versatile enough to suit meat lovers and vegetarians alike (just swap the protein). Plus, it’s perfect for any meal of the day, not just breakfast.

What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Skillet Breakfast Hash?

I like to use russet potatoes because they crisp up beautifully and hold their shape during cooking. Yukon golds also work well and bring a slightly buttery texture. If you're short on time, parboiling the potatoes beforehand will help get that irresistible golden crust even faster. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerlings—they tend to steam rather than crisp.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best parts about this hash is how adaptable it is. Don’t have sausage? Use bacon, diced ham, or even leftover grilled veggies for a vegetarian twist. Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella, pepper jack, or whatever’s in your fridge. Not into eggs with runny yolks? Scramble them or omit them altogether. You can also throw in bell peppers, onions, or spinach to boost the veggie content.

Ingredients for this Skillet Breakfast Hash

• Potatoes – The base of the hash. Diced into small cubes, they become crispy and golden in the skillet, adding texture and heartiness.
• Sausage or Hot Dogs – Adds a savory, smoky flavor and protein. Easily switchable based on preference.
• Eggs – Cooked sunny-side up or to your liking, they complete the dish with richness and creaminess.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the potatoes and sausage, creating a gooey, flavorful layer.
• Green Onions – Brings a fresh bite and color contrast. They also balance the richness of the other ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning everything from the potatoes to the eggs.
• Olive Oil or Butter – Needed to crisp up the potatoes and enhance flavor throughout.
• Crushed Red Pepper (optional) – For a touch of heat, if you like a spicy kick.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by peeling (optional) and dicing your potatoes into small cubes. Slice your sausage or hot dogs into bite-sized rounds. Crack your eggs into a bowl if you prefer to pour them in easily. Grate your cheddar cheese and chop your green onions.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the potatoes in an even layer. Season with salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to form a crispy crust, then stir occasionally until browned and tender (about 12–15 minutes total).

Step 3: Add the Sausage

Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, stir in the sliced sausage or hot dogs. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the edges start to caramelize and they’re heated through.

Step 4: Make Space for the Eggs

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Use a spatula to create small wells in the hash, then gently crack or pour in each egg into its space. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but yolks remain runny. Cook longer if you prefer firm yolks.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the skillet while the eggs are still finishing. Let the cheese melt into the hash — about 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped green onions and a pinch of crushed red pepper if desired. Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, satisfying breakfast experience.

How Long to Prepare the Skillet Breakfast Hash

Prep Time: Prepping your ingredients takes about 10–15 minutes. This includes dicing the potatoes, slicing the sausage or hot dogs, grating cheese, and chopping green onions. If you're parboiling the potatoes in advance, add another 5–7 minutes.

Cook Time: From frying the potatoes to finishing the eggs, cooking typically takes 20–25 minutes. Potatoes need the most time, while sausage and eggs cook relatively quickly. In total, you're looking at about 35–40 minutes from start to serve.

Tips for Perfect Skillet Breakfast Hash

• Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for the best crisp on the potatoes.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan — give the potatoes room to brown evenly.
• Parboil potatoes for 5 minutes beforehand if you want extra crispy results.
• Shred your cheese fresh from the block for better melt and flavor.
• Covering the skillet while cooking eggs helps set the whites without overcooking the yolks.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Cutting potatoes too large – Larger chunks take longer to cook and won’t crisp up evenly.
• Adding eggs too early – Wait until everything else is nearly done before adding the eggs.
• Skipping the lid – Without covering, your eggs may remain undercooked.
• Over-stirring the potatoes – Let them sit undisturbed to form a golden crust.
• Overloading the pan – It traps moisture, preventing proper browning.

What to Serve With Skillet Breakfast Hash?

1. Fresh Fruit Salad

The brightness of citrus, berries, and melon contrasts perfectly with the richness of the hash.

2. Toast or Buttery Biscuits

A great way to soak up the yolk and any cheesy bits left in the skillet.

3. Avocado Slices or Guacamole

Creamy and cool, avocado balances out the savory components beautifully.

4. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

A dollop on the side adds tanginess and creaminess.

5. Freshly Brewed Coffee or Iced Tea

A hot or cold beverage rounds out the meal and helps reset your palate.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The potatoes may lose some crispness, but the flavors will deepen overnight.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to bring back the crisp texture. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, though this method softens the potatoes.

Freezing: Not ideal for eggs, but you can freeze the potato and sausage mix alone for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before adding freshly cooked eggs.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, 1 of 4)

• Calories: ~430 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Cholesterol: 210mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this hash vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the sausage or replace it with plant-based meat or extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.

What’s the best type of cheese to use?

Cheddar melts well and adds sharp flavor, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack.

How do I know when the eggs are cooked just right?

Watch the whites — once they’re opaque and firm, the eggs are done. If you prefer firmer yolks, cook 1–2 minutes longer.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can parboil and refrigerate the potatoes and pre-chop all ingredients. Just assemble and cook fresh when ready.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, but it’s better to cook in batches or use two skillets so everything browns properly.

Conclusion

Skillet Breakfast Hash is the kind of recipe that checks every box — simple, filling, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether it’s a cozy morning at home or a brunch gathering with friends, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. From golden potatoes to cheesy eggs, every bite is comfort in its most delicious form.

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