You are about to dive into a true breakfast delight with this Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe that perfectly balances crispy, savory, and cheesy flavors in one skillet. Imagine golden hash browns intertwined with juicy sausage, tender ham, and vibrant vegetables, all topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese—this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s not only incredibly satisfying but also simple enough to whip up on a busy morning or a leisurely weekend brunch. Trust me, once you try this Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe, it will become an instant favorite in your breakfast rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze because each one plays a crucial role in creating the hearty, comforting flavors and textures that define this dish. From the buttery hash browns to the well-seasoned ground pork sausage and the colorful mix of vegetables, it all comes together beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons salted butter: Adds rich flavor and helps crisp up the hash browns to golden perfection.
- 20 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed: The starchy base that offers a crispy, tender texture when cooked right.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- 1 pound ground pork sausage: Provides a savory, juicy component that’s essential for that hearty bite.
- 8 ounces diced ham: Brings a smoky, meaty texture that pairs beautifully with the sausage.
- 1 medium white onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch once cooked.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced: Offers vibrant color and a mild, sweet flavor to brighten the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the hot hash, adding creamy, tangy richness.
How to Make Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Hash Browns
Start by melting 4 tablespoons of salted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The butter not only prevents sticking but also infuses the hash browns with a savory richness. Next, add 20 ounces of thawed shredded hash browns and season them lightly with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Patience is key here—cook the hash browns with minimal flipping for about 10 to 12 minutes until they develop a beautiful, crispy golden crust. This crispy texture is what makes this dish so irresistible. Once perfectly cooked, remove the hash browns from the pan and set them aside, taking a moment to wipe out the skillet for the next steps.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
With the skillet ready, add 1 pound of ground pork sausage. Let it sizzle and brown for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking. As the aroma fills the kitchen, stir in 8 ounces of diced ham, the diced white onion, and the red bell pepper. The veggies will soften and gently caramelize in about 6 to 8 minutes, creating a wonderful balance of sweetness and meaty flavors. Season again with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, making sure the mixture is well-rounded in taste. This combination brings a robust heartiness and vibrant color to the dish.
Step 3: Combine Hash Browns and Meat
Return the crispy hash browns to the skillet and gently fold them into the sausage and vegetable mixture. This step is about blending textures without breaking the crispy edges you worked so hard to achieve. Turning off the heat now preserves the perfect balance of crisp and juicy components in your hash.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the hash; the residual heat will melt it in about 2 to 3 minutes. This melted layer of cheese brings the whole dish together with its creamy, tangy finish, making each bite wonderfully indulgent. Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and all the flavors are at their peak.
How to Serve Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing, a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or parsley adds a burst of fresh color and a subtle sharpness that complements the rich and savory hash. If you love a little extra kick, a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños on top can elevate the flavors wonderfully. These simple additions really bring the dish to life and make it look as vibrant as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe stands well on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon strips, warm buttered toast, or even a fresh fruit salad. The crispness of bacon contrasts beautifully with the tender hash, while toast helps mop up every last bit of melted cheese and savory goodness. Fresh fruit adds a light, juicy balance to the hearty plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the hash in individual cast-iron skillets or rustic ramekins, which keep the dish warm and add charm to your presentation. You can also create breakfast bowls by layering the loaded hash with fried or poached eggs on top, making it perfect for a brunch gathering. Another idea is to stuff the hash into breakfast burritos or even atop toasted English muffins with a dollop of sour cream—this recipe is wonderfully versatile and perfect for showcasing your creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of this delicious Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe, no worries! Simply place the cooled hash in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen upon resting, so leftovers taste fantastic.
Freezing
You can freeze the hash for up to 2 months to enjoy it later. Portion it into meal-sized containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to regain that crispy exterior, adding a little butter or oil if needed. Alternatively, microwaving works well for a quicker option, but the hash may lose some crispness. To restore some texture after microwaving, a quick sear in a hot pan works wonders.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! You can shred fresh potatoes and use them just like the frozen hash browns. Just be sure to pat the shredded potatoes dry to remove excess moisture, which helps them crisp up nicely in the skillet.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and ham, and substitute with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Adding plant-based sausage alternatives can also keep that meaty texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it later?
Definitely. This hash holds up well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day. Just reheat it gently in a skillet to bring back the crisp texture before serving.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is classic for this dish thanks to its sharp flavor and great melting qualities, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a blend for a different twist.
How do I ensure the hash browns get crispy?
The key is cooking them in plenty of butter or oil, spreading them out in a single layer, and letting them cook undisturbed until golden before flipping. Using thawed hash browns also prevents sogginess.
Final Thoughts
Making this Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe is like bringing a bright, flavorful morning to your table with every bite. It’s easy to prepare, packed with hearty ingredients, and perfect for satisfying hungry appetites. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious start to your day!
Print
Loaded Breakfast Hash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Loaded Breakfast Hash is a hearty and satisfying dish featuring crispy golden hash browns combined with savory ground pork sausage, diced ham, sautéed onions, and red bell peppers, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch, this recipe offers a flavorful blend of textures and rich flavors in just about 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 20 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
- 1 pound ground pork sausage
- 8 ounces diced ham
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Hash Browns: Melt 4 tablespoons salted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 20 ounces of thawed frozen shredded hash browns, seasoning with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook the hash browns, flipping them minimally, until they become golden brown and crispy, about 10-12 minutes. Once done, remove the hash browns from the skillet, set aside, and wipe out the pan to prepare for the next step.
- Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: Add 1 pound of ground pork sausage to the cleaned skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking the sausage into crumbles as it browns. Then stir in 8 ounces of diced ham, the diced white onion, and diced red bell pepper. Season the mixture with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Continue cooking for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
- Combine Hash Browns and Meat: Return the cooked hash browns to the skillet and gently fold them into the sausage and vegetable mixture until well combined. Turn off the heat to prepare for the final cheese topping step.
- Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the hash mixture. Allow the heat from the skillet and the food underneath to melt the cheese naturally, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Serve the hash hot immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best crispiness, avoid stirring the hash browns too much while cooking initially.
- You can substitute ground pork sausage with breakfast sausage or turkey sausage if preferred.
- To add extra flavor, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of smoked paprika.
- This recipe can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Make sure to thaw the hash browns completely for even cooking and crisp texture.
