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This egg topped hash browns with bacon gravy is my favorite for a lazy weekend breakfast when I want something hearty that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to pull together. It combines crispy potatoes with silky eggs and a savory bacon gravy that turns a classic brunch into comfort food perfection.
Making this was a happy accident on a Sunday morning when I realized I had most of these ingredients in the fridge. It quickly became my go to when I want to impress without fuss.
Ingredients
- Large eggs: make the creamy base for the eggs fresher eggs create fluffier curds
- Salted butter: adds richness and depth for scrambling eggs
- Heavy cream and whole milk: combine for smooth velvety gravy and egg texture
- Thick-cut bacon: provides the flavorful backbone and drippings for the gravy select good quality bacon for best taste
- Frozen hash brown patties: are convenient and crisp nicely when cooked well make sure to avoid ones that are too thick for even cooking
- Flour: thickens the gravy and creates that perfect silky mouthfeel
- Black pepper coarse salt and dried parsley: season the dish to balance flavors and add freshness
Instructions
- Build The Bacon Base:
- Cut bacon into bite-sized pieces then cook in a cold skillet over medium heat. This slow start slowly renders the fat and ensures the bacon crisps nicely without burning. Once crispy remove bacon pieces and drain on paper towels leaving drippings in the pan.
- Prepare Hash Browns:
- Cook the frozen hash brown patties according to package instructions aiming for extra crispiness through careful flipping and cooking on medium heat. This forms the crunchy foundation of the dish.
- Scramble The Eggs:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Whisk eggs with a tablespoon of warm water for better texture. Pour eggs slowly into the butter stirring constantly to form soft tender curds. Stir in one tablespoon of heavy cream and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cover the pan and set aside gently to keep warm without overcooking.
- Make The Bacon Gravy:
- Add flour to the reserved bacon drippings in the skillet and whisk continuously until golden brown to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in heavy cream and milk whisking constantly over low heat to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened and silky. Season with salt pepper and dried parsley. If gravy thickens too much add milk gradually to reach desired consistency.
- Assemble The Dish:
- Place cooked hash browns on plates. Top with scrambled eggs and ladle warm bacon gravy over everything. Garnish with extra black pepper salt or parsley if desired. Serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh.
I love how the crispy bacon drippings transform simple flour and cream into a luscious gravy. It reminds me of family breakfasts growing up where the whole kitchen smelled like bacon and laughter creating that cozy weekend feeling everyone looks forward to.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The gravy will thicken when chilled gently reheat with a splash of milk to bring it back to smooth creaminess. Reheat eggs low and slow to avoid drying them out. Re-crisp hash browns in a hot skillet for best texture.
Ingredient swaps
Turkey bacon works for a lighter version though it will produce less fat for gravy. Use half and half instead of heavy cream and milk to simplify liquids. For a dairy-free option substitute almond or oat milk and vegan butter but expect a slightly different flavor profile.
Serving ideas
Pair with sautéed greens or a fresh tomato salad to cut through richness. A side of roasted mushrooms or grilled asparagus also complements the smoky eggs and gravy beautifully. A dollop of hot sauce or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar adds another layer of indulgence.
Friends and family rave about this dish whenever I make it. One brunch gathering turned into three requests for the recipe and a few surprise dinner invites just to eat the leftovers. It’s a dish that feels homemade full of love and comfort perfect for when you want to make everyone smile.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I get the hash browns crispy?
Cook the hash brown patties according to package instructions, preferably frying them in a hot skillet with a bit of oil or butter to enhance crispiness and golden color.
- → What’s the best way to make soft scrambled eggs?
Whisk eggs with a little warm water, cook slowly over low heat while stirring constantly, and add butter and cream to keep the eggs moist and silky.
- → How is the bacon gravy thickened properly?
Start by whisking flour into the hot bacon drippings to form a roux, then gradually add milk and cream while stirring until the gravy thickens smoothly.
- → Can I adjust the seasoning in the gravy?
Yes, taste and adjust salt, pepper, and parsley according to your preference to balance the savory flavors.
- → Are there healthier alternatives to bacon in this dish?
You can substitute turkey bacon or reduce the amount of heavy cream to lighten the dish while keeping similar flavors.