There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a hearty breakfast wafting through the house, am I right? I can remember weekends at my grandparents’ house when I was little; the whole family would gather around the breakfast table, sharing stories over plates piled high with fluffy eggs and crispy hash browns. One dish that always stole the show was the Breakfast Skillet. The way everything came together in one pan was magical—a symphony of flavors that got everyone excited to start the day.
This Breakfast Skillet is not just a nostalgic throwback; it’s a simple, quick meal that you can whip up in no time, whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a busy weekday morning. Packed with cheesy goodness and all the breakfast essentials, it makes for a filling start to your day, and the best part? You can customize it however you like! Let’s dive into what you’ll need to whip up this breakfast favorite.
What’s in Breakfast Skillet?
Frozen Hash Browns: The star of the show! These delightful potatoes add that perfect layer of crispy texture. I always keep a bag in my freezer—they’re such a time saver!
Diced Ham (or Breakfast Sausage): A flavor-packed protein source that adds a delightful savoriness. I personally love using ham because it gives those sweet and salty vibes, but sausage is just as delicious!
Chopped Green Onions: These little green beauties add a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor. I can’t resist tossing in extra—there’s something about green onions that makes everything feel special.
Eggs: Nature’s perfect food! We’re cracking four large eggs right into our skillet for that classic breakfast vibe, plus they bring wonderfully rich flavor and nutrition.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Let’s be honest, cheese makes everything better! I like to use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that cuts through the richness of the eggs.
Salt and Pepper: Basic pantry staples that elevate the entire dish. You can never go wrong with seasoning to taste!
Olive Oil (or Butter): For cooking the hash browns and creating that crispy base. I sometimes switch things up by using butter—who doesn’t love that buttery flavor?
Is Breakfast Skillet Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This Breakfast Skillet isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients too.
Frozen Hash Browns: They provide carbohydrates for energy, perfect for starting the day off right. If you’re watching your carb intake, sweet potato hash browns are a great option to consider.
Diced Ham/Sausage: A source of protein which is key for muscle repair and growth. If you want a leaner option, opt for turkey sausage or ham.
Green Onions: These add not only visual appeal but also antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to overall health.
Eggs: They’re rich in protein and healthy fats, along with vitamins D and B12. Eggs are a powerhouse food that keeps you feeling full longer!
Cheddar Cheese: While it’s delicious, cheese does come with calories and fat, so if you’re watching those, you might want to use a low-fat option or sprinkle lightly.
All in all, the Breakfast Skillet offers a balanced mix of macronutrients, giving you energy to tackle whatever the day throws at you!
Ingredients
– 2 cups frozen hash browns
– 1 cup diced ham (or breakfast sausage)
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
This recipe serves about 4 hungry breakfast lovers, so gather your crew!
How to Make Breakfast Skillet?
1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the frozen hash browns to the skillet. Spread them out evenly and let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
3. Stir the hash browns, then add the diced ham (or sausage) on top. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is heated through and the hash browns are crispy.
4. Make four wells in the hash brown mixture and crack an egg into each well.
5. Season the eggs with salt and pepper, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire skillet.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
And voila! You have a delicious, hearty Breakfast Skillet that’s sure to impress everyone!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for the Perfect Skillet
This Breakfast Skillet is versatile, and you can easily make it your own. Want to throw in some veggies? Go for bell peppers or spinach! Like a spicy kick? Add some jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. Want to switch up the cheese? Try pepper jack or even mozzarella!
I love serving this dish with a side of fresh fruit or some toasted bread. And if you’re feeling extra ambitious, how about a mimosa to really set the brunch vibe?
Whether you’re making this for a crowd or just for yourself, I encourage you to relish every bite and create your own breakfast stories around it. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy, and let me know how yours turns out!