Nothing kickstarts the day like a hearty, satisfying breakfast, and this Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet does just that. Packed with crispy potatoes, eggs cooked to perfection, savory sausage, and a medley of veggies, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Perfect for leisurely weekend mornings or even a quick dinner option, this breakfast skillet is as versatile as it is delicious. Let’s cooking our Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups potatoes, diced (russet or Yukon Gold work best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Protein and Veggies:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 pound breakfast sausage (ground or sliced links)
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sliced avocado
- Hot sauce or salsa
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced potatoes, spreading them out in an even layer. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and crispy.
2. Cook the Sausage:
- Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the breakfast sausage to the empty space.
- Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
- Add bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the skillet. Stir everything together.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the Eggs:
- Create small wells in the skillet mixture and crack an egg into each well.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Cook for 4-6 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny. (For firmer yolks, cook a bit longer.)
5. Finish with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet, if using.
- Cover for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley, sliced avocado, or your favorite hot sauce.
- Serve the skillet directly at the table with warm toast or tortillas.
Tips
- Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, parboil them for 5 minutes before adding to the skillet.
- Customizable Protein: Substitute sausage with bacon, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
- One-Pan Clean-Up: Use an oven-safe skillet for everything and avoid extra dishes.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- Make Ahead: Dice and cook the potatoes, sausage, and veggies ahead of time. Reheat them and add fresh eggs when ready to serve.
Variations
- Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cumin. Top with salsa and sour cream.
- Meatless Monday: Skip the sausage and double up on the veggies—spinach and zucchini make great additions.
- Cheesy Explosion: Use a blend of mozzarella, pepper jack, and cheddar for extra gooeyness.
- Brunch Vibes: Serve with a side of fresh fruit, a mimosa, or a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Nutrition Details
Per Serving (based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
FAQ
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the potatoes, sausage, and veggies ahead of time, then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a skillet and cook fresh eggs on top.
Q: Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Frozen hash browns are a great shortcut. Just cook them according to the package instructions before proceeding with the recipe.
Q: How can I make this dairy-free?
A: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. This skillet is still delicious without it!
Q: What’s the best skillet to use?
A: A large cast-iron or non-stick skillet works best for even cooking and easy clean-up.
Q: Can I bake the eggs instead of cooking them on the stove?
A: Yes, place the skillet in a 375°F oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.