Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty breakfast skillet, and this Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet is no exception. Packed with savory flavors and satisfying textures, it’s the perfect dish to kickstart your day or serve up for brunch. With crispy hash browns, juicy sausage, and perfectly cooked eggs, this skillet meal is not just easy to prepare; it’s also incredibly delicious. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this delightful breakfast!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet is a go-to recipe for several reasons. Firstly, it brings together the classic breakfast staples that everyone loves, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Secondly, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your food. Lastly, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. If you love breakfast as much as I do, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients at a Glance
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if necessary
- 2 cups sweet Vidalia or yellow onions, peeled and diced small (about 1 large onion)
- One 20-ounce bag hashbrowns (refrigerated preferred or thaw if using frozen)
- 3 to 4 garlic cloves, peeled and finely minced
- About 20 Johnsonville Classic Italian Style Meatballs, thawed (about 1 pound meatballs; or use 1 pound de-cased Fresh Italian Sausage Links or Ground Sausage)
- About 6 large eggs
- ½ cup bell peppers, seeded and diced small (optional for garnishing; I used a combination of red and yellow peppers)
- 1 tablespoon fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley leaves, finely minced (stems discarded, optional for garnishing)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste
Must-Have Equipment
- Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking.
- Spatula: Ideal for flipping and mixing ingredients without scratching your skillet.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping veggies and meatballs.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
Stepwise Method: Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onions and bell peppers if using, and mince the garlic. If you are using frozen hashbrowns, make sure they are thawed.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. If you need more oil later, you can add it as necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions to the skillet. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and start to caramelize.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Meatballs
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the thawed meatballs. If you’re using sausage, remove it from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Hashbrowns
Add the hashbrowns to the skillet. Stir everything together, pressing the hashbrowns down slightly so they can crisp up. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until the bottom is crispy before flipping to cook the other side.
Step 6: Create Wells for the Eggs
Once the hashbrowns are crispy, use a spatula to create small wells in the mixture for the eggs. Crack the eggs into the wells, taking care not to break the yolks.
Step 7: Cook the Eggs
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the eggs are set to your desired doneness, typically about 5-6 minutes for runny yolks. If you prefer firmer yolks, cook a few minutes longer.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, sprinkle the dish with diced bell peppers and fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet!
Seasonal Spins
- Spring: Add fresh asparagus and cherry tomatoes for a vibrant touch.
- Summer: Incorporate zucchini and corn for a fresh summer flavor.
- Fall: Mix in roasted pumpkin or butternut squash cubes for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Include sautéed kale or spinach for a nutrient boost.
Chef’s Rationale
This Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet is all about balance. The crispy hashbrowns provide a hearty base, while the savory meatballs or sausage add a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the eggs. Plus, the addition of onions and garlic creates a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist. This dish can be customized to suit your taste, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or even switch up the proteins. It’s the ultimate breakfast comfort food that’s both satisfying and adaptable!
How to Store & Reheat
Leftover Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but for the best texture, the skillet method is recommended.
Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet Q&A
Can I use frozen hashbrowns for this recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen hashbrowns, be sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the skillet for even cooking.
What can I substitute for meatballs or sausage?
You can use crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option, or skip the protein altogether and load up on veggies for a lighter dish.
How do I know when the eggs are done?
Cover the skillet and keep an eye on the eggs. They are done when the whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for yolk doneness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the hashbrowns and meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the eggs and cook when you’re ready to serve!
In Closing
If you’re looking for a satisfying and easy breakfast dish that the whole family will love, look no further than this Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your home. So, gather your loved ones around the table, dig in, and enjoy every delicious bite! This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a great way to bring everyone together for a warm, filling meal. Happy cooking!
Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onions and bell peppers if using, and mince the garlic. If you are using frozen hashbrowns, make sure they are thawed.
- In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. If you need more oil later, you can add it as necessary.
- Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions to the skillet. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and start to caramelize.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the thawed meatballs. If you’re using sausage, remove it from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the hashbrowns to the skillet. Stir everything together, pressing the hashbrowns down slightly so they can crisp up. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until the bottom is crispy before flipping to cook the other side.
- Once the hashbrowns are crispy, use a spatula to create small wells in the mixture for the eggs. Crack the eggs into the wells, taking care not to break the yolks.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the eggs are set to your desired doneness, typically about 5-6 minutes for runny yolks. If you prefer firmer yolks, cook a few minutes longer.
- Once cooked, sprinkle the dish with diced bell peppers and fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your Easy Eggs, Sausage, and Hash Browns Skillet!
Notes
- Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute meatballs with crumbled tofu.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
