Bacon, Egg, and Potato Hash: A One-Pan Breakfast Delight

Introduction & Inspiration

As someone who loves a hearty and flavorful breakfast, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both quick and satisfying. This Bacon, Egg, and Potato Hash is a winner on both fronts! It’s a classic breakfast dish that comes together in minutes, making it perfect for those mornings when you’re short on time but still want a nourishing and delicious meal. The inspiration for this recipe came from my love of simple, wholesome ingredients that shine when cooked together.

Homemade Focus

While you can certainly use pre-cooked bacon or frozen hash browns, I encourage you to embrace the freshness and flavor of homemade ingredients whenever possible. This recipe is so simple that there’s no need for shortcuts, and using quality ingredients will elevate the taste of your breakfast hash. Plus, making it from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking.

Flavor Goal

The goal here is to create a breakfast hash that’s bursting with savory flavors and satisfying textures. We’re talking crispy potatoes, smoky bacon, fresh chives, and perfectly cooked eggs, all seasoned with a touch of garlic and onion powder. This combination creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s explore the key players in this delicious breakfast hash:

• Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor that’s irresistible in a breakfast dish. Using center-cut bacon helps to reduce the fat content while still providing that delicious bacon flavor.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to cook the potatoes and adds a healthy dose of fats to the dish.
• Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for hash because they crisp up beautifully when cooked.
• Kosher Salt: Kosher salt is used to season the potatoes and enhance their flavor.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These spices add a subtle depth of flavor to the hash.
• Chives or Green Onions: Chives or green onions add a touch of freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• Eggs: Eggs are a breakfast staple, providing protein and richness to the hash.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds a sharp and cheesy flavor that melts beautifully over the eggs.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the dish.

Equipment

You’ll need just a few essential tools to whip up this breakfast hash:

• Medium skillet with a lid
• Paper towels
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 6 slices center-cut bacon, diced
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 ½ lbs russet potatoes, skinned and diced small (about ¾ inch chunks)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ⅓ cup minced chives or chopped green onions
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ cup shredded, reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: Cook the diced bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until almost done. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Drain and wipe the bacon grease from the skillet. Return to heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add potatoes in a single layer. Let them cook without mixing for a few minutes, then flip. Continue cooking until browned and nearly cooked through. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt in the final minute of cooking.
3. Add Bacon and Chives: Mix in chives (or green onions) and bacon, ensuring all ingredients are evenly dispersed throughout the potatoes.
4. Make Egg Pockets: Create 4 pockets or nests for the eggs in the potato mixture.
5. Cook Eggs: Carefully crack each egg into the pockets, then cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are done to your liking.
6. Season and Serve: Finish with freshly ground black pepper and extra salt, as needed. Cut into 4 portions and serve immediately.

Troubleshooting

• Potatoes not crispy: Make sure to let the potatoes cook undisturbed in a single layer for a few minutes before flipping them. This will help them develop a crispy crust. You can also increase the heat slightly to ensure they brown properly.
• Eggs overcooked: If you prefer runny yolks, keep a close eye on the eggs and remove the pan from the heat as soon as they reach your desired doneness.
• Dish too bland: Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices to taste.

Tips and Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spices.
• Feel free to substitute the russet potatoes with another type of potato, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
• You can add other vegetables to the hash, such as diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a plant-based bacon alternative or add some crumbled tofu for protein.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Bacon, Egg, and Potato Hash is a hearty and satisfying breakfast that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of toast, fruit, or avocado. It’s perfect for brunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or a cozy weekend breakfast with family and friends.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, approximate)

• Calories: ~400
• Fat: ~25g
• Cholesterol: ~200mg
• Sodium: ~700mg
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Protein: ~20g

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Recipe Summary and Q&A

Recipe Name: Bacon, Egg, and Potato Hash

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Yields: 4 servings

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Absolutely! You can use any type of cheese that you like, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a Mexican cheese blend.

Q: Can I make this hash ahead of time?

A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the potatoes and bacon ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, simply reheat and add the eggs when ready to serve.

Q: Can I bake this hash in the oven instead of cooking it on the stovetop?

A: Yes, you can bake the hash in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown. Then, create wells for the eggs and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.