Breakfast Hash

Introduction

There’s something about a hearty breakfast hash that makes everything feel right in the world. Maybe it’s the crispy potatoes, the perfectly cooked eggs, or the way all the flavors come together with just a dash of seasoning. Whatever it is, this breakfast hash has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I’m sure it will win over your family, too.

I first discovered breakfast hash one chilly fall morning when I was craving something warm and filling to start my day. I was in the mood for something beyond the usual oatmeal or toast—something hearty and satisfying, but easy to whip up. After scouring my kitchen and pulling together some leftover roasted potatoes, a few eggs, and a handful of veggies, I created what would soon become my go-to breakfast recipe. It was so simple, yet packed with flavor.

What makes this recipe so special is how customizable it is. You can easily adapt it to what you have in the fridge or to your dietary needs. Plus, the whole thing comes together in less than 30 minutes—making it perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches.

So, whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend breakfast or something to energize you during the week, this breakfast hash is here to save the day. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to fall in love with this breakfast hash for so many reasons! Here are a few:

• Quick & Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. Minimal prep, minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: If you’re someone who likes to have breakfast ready to go, this hash holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days. Just heat it up, add a fresh egg, and you’re good to go!
• Customizable: Use whatever vegetables, proteins, or spices you have on hand. Love spicy food? Add jalapeños. Want it extra hearty? Add some turkey bacon or sausage. It’s your kitchen, your rules!
• Comforting & Satisfying: The crispy potatoes and savory veggies with runny eggs on top make this the ultimate comfort food. Every bite is a little piece of heaven.

The combination of crispy potatoes, tender vegetables, and savory eggs creates a flavor-packed bite every time. There’s also something so satisfying about cooking everything in one pan—less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 generous servings
• Calories per Serving: Approx. 350-400 (depending on ingredients used)
• Protein: 15g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s what you’ll need for a perfectly satisfying breakfast hash:

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or your favorite cooking oil)
• 1/2 onion, diced (I love using yellow onion for its sweet flavor)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or green)
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (adds a smoky warmth)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, but gives a great herbal flavor)
• 4 eggs (fried sunny-side-up or scrambled)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Why These Ingredients Matter:

• Potatoes: The crispy potatoes are the base of this hash. They soak up the flavors from the veggies and seasoning, giving each bite a satisfying crunch.
• Onion and Bell Pepper: These add sweetness and color, making your hash more vibrant and flavorful.
• Garlic and Thyme: These elevate the flavor profile, giving the hash an aromatic and savory base.
• Eggs: They tie everything together, adding richness and texture. I recommend sunny-side-up eggs, but scrambled works too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have everything we need, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to make your breakfast hash.

1. Prep Your Ingredients
   Begin by washing and peeling the potatoes. Then, dice them into small, bite-sized cubes. The smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll cook and get that crispy texture. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using). Mince the garlic. Keep everything separate so it’s easy to toss into the pan when it’s time.
2. Cook the Potatoes
   In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan). Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to turn golden brown. You want them crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.Tip: If you want extra crispy potatoes, cook them in batches. This allows them to fry evenly without steaming.
3. Add the Veggies
   Once the potatoes are crispy, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir everything together and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and caramelize a bit. This is where the magic happens—those sweet onions and peppers mix with the smoky paprika, creating an irresistible aroma.
4. Add Garlic
   Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can become bitter when overcooked.
5. Fry the Eggs
   While the vegetables are cooking, in a separate small skillet, heat a little oil over medium-low heat and crack the eggs into the pan. Fry until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny (about 3-4 minutes). If you prefer scrambled eggs, feel free to scramble them and add them to the hash instead.Tip: You can also poach your eggs if that’s your thing, or even make a batch of soft-boiled eggs.
6. Assemble Your Hash
   Once the potatoes and veggies are cooked and the eggs are ready, it’s time to assemble your hash. Spoon a generous portion of the hash onto each plate, then top with an egg. Sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve

Now that your hash is ready, here are some ways to serve it up:

• With Toast: Serve the hash alongside some crispy toast or your favorite bread for a complete breakfast.
• With Avocado: Add some creamy avocado slices for extra richness.
• With Hot Sauce: Drizzle with your favorite hot sauce or salsa for a spicy kick.
• For a Hearty Brunch: Pair with a side of mixed greens or fruit salad to balance out the richness of the hash.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make sure your breakfast hash turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are starchy and crisp up beautifully. Yukon golds work well too, but they’ll be a bit creamier.
2. Don’t Rush the Potatoes: Give the potatoes enough time to cook through and get crispy. Patience is key!
3. Customize Your Hash: If you have leftover roasted veggies or meats from another meal, toss them into the hash! It’s a great way to use up leftovers.
4. Make It Spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of chili powder to spice things up.
5. Keep It Crispy: To keep the potatoes crispy, avoid covering the pan with a lid after cooking.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about this breakfast hash is how versatile it is! Here are some ideas for variations:

• Meat Lovers: Add crumbled turkey bacon or cooked sausage for extra protein.
• Vegetarian: Swap the eggs for scrambled tofu or just add more vegetables, like spinach, zucchini, or kale.
• Gluten-Free: This hash is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re serving it with bread, opt for gluten-free toast or a rice cake.
• Herb Variations: Switch up the herbs! Try rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Cheese: Add a sprinkle of cheddar, feta, or goat cheese for an extra creamy and savory touch.

Serving Suggestions

Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Side Dishes: Serve with a side of roasted tomatoes or a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Beverages: Pair with freshly brewed coffee or a mimosa if you’re feeling extra fancy.
• For Kids: Kids love breakfast hash too! Serve it with a side of fruit or a smoothie for extra nutrients.

Freezing and Storage

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), breakfast hash stores and reheats wonderfully. Here’s how to store it:

• Fridge: Store the hash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little extra oil if necessary to keep the potatoes crispy.
• Freezer: While the potatoes might lose some of their crispiness when frozen, you can still freeze the hash. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. If you’ve frozen the eggs, you can reheat them separately in the microwave and add them on top after reheating the hash.

FAQ: Breakfast Hash

1. Can I make breakfast hash ahead of time?
Yes! Breakfast hash is great for meal prep. You can cook the potatoes and vegetables in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat in a skillet, then top with freshly fried or scrambled eggs. It’s a quick way to enjoy a delicious breakfast without having to cook from scratch every morning!

2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes make a great alternative to regular potatoes. They add a slightly sweeter flavor and are packed with extra nutrients. Just make sure to cook them until they are tender and crispy, just like the regular potatoes in the recipe.

3. How do I make the hash spicier?
If you like your breakfast hash with a bit of heat, there are a few ways to spice things up:

• Add a chopped jalapeño or other chili pepper to the vegetables.
• Use spicy paprika or a sprinkle of chili powder.
• Drizzle some hot sauce or sriracha over the finished dish for a spicy kick.

4. Can I make this breakfast hash vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is easy to make vegetarian. Simply omit any meats, like sausage or bacon, and focus on the vegetables and eggs. You can even add more veggies such as spinach, kale, zucchini, or mushrooms to make it heartier.

5. What other proteins can I add to the hash?
If you’re looking to add more protein, try crumbled turkey bacon, sausage (chicken or pork), or even leftover roast chicken or steak. Tofu is a great vegetarian protein option, too. Just make sure to cook your protein separately and mix it into the hash at the end.

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Conclusion

Breakfast hash is a game-changer. Whether you’re making it for a special weekend brunch or to enjoy throughout the week, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. The best part? You can customize it however you like, making it a truly versatile dish that fits any taste or dietary need.

I hope this recipe brings some warmth and joy to your mornings. The combination of crispy potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and a perfectly cooked egg will make you feel like a breakfast champion every time. So, grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!