Hearty Loaded Breakfast Hash

This loaded breakfast hash is the perfect way to start a weekend morning with a satisfying and flavorful meal. Packed with sausage, ham, veggies, and melted cheddar, it hits all the right notes for anyone craving a hearty breakfast that takes under an hour from start to finish.

I put this together one Saturday when the family wanted something more exciting than plain toast, and it quickly became our weekend go-to breakfast.

Ingredients

• Butter: brings richness and helps everything crisp nicely. Use salted for seasoning or unsalted if you want full control of salt.
• Frozen shredded hash browns: save time but make sure they are fully thawed to get that golden, crispy finish. Freshly shredded potatoes can work but take extra time to dry.
• Salt and black pepper: for basic seasoning. Adjust to your taste but layering salt at this stage builds flavor.
• Ground pork sausage: adds juicy, savory flavor. Choose good quality sausage with natural spices for best taste.
• Diced ham: for extra meaty goodness and a bit of smoky sweetness. Go for a fresh cut from the deli or a quality packaged option.
• White onion: provides a mild sweetness and aroma. Look for firm, smooth-skinned onions without sprouting.
• Red bell pepper: adds color, crunch, and a gentle sweetness. Pick a firm pepper with glossy skin.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and ties all flavors together. Freshly shredded from a block gives the best melt and flavor.

Instructions

Build The Crispy Base:

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat so it coats the pan nicely without burning. Add the fully thawed hash browns with salt and pepper. Cook without stirring too much for about 10 minutes until the edges turn golden and crispy. This step creates that satisfying contrast of textures.

Cook The Sausage:

Push the hash browns to one side of the skillet. Add the ground pork sausage to the open space. Cook over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through about 8 to 10 minutes. This gradual cooking develops deep meaty flavor.

Sauté The Veggies And Ham:

Stir in the diced ham, onion, and red bell pepper right into the sausage. Continue cooking and stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and peppers soften about 5 minutes. This step blends savory and sweet with a touch of freshness.

Combine Everything:

Mix the sausage, ham, veggies, and crispy hash browns thoroughly in the skillet. Make sure all ingredients are evenly spread for consistent flavor in every bite.

Melt The Cheese:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil for a few minutes so the cheese melts smoothly without overcooking the other ingredients.

Serve Hot:

Scoop out generous portions while everything is warm and gooey. This hash pairs amazingly with a fried egg on top or a side of fresh fruit.

I have a soft spot for the melted cheddar on top& it’s the comfort layer that makes this hash feel like a treat. One Sunday morning my kids insisted on eating straight from the pan which is always a good sign.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the hash crispy instead of soggy. This hash is best enjoyed fresh but warms up surprisingly well.

Ingredient swaps

Try smoked sausage instead of pork for an extra smoky flavor profile. Switch out ham for diced cooked bacon or leftover roast chicken to change things up. Use pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar if you want a different cheese flavor or melt texture.

Serving ideas

Top with a fried or poached egg for more protein and richness. Serve alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for balance on the plate. Add a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce to punch up the flavors.

This loaded breakfast hash is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for weekend mornings or brunch.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of sausage works best for this hash?

Ground pork sausage offers a rich and savory flavor that complements the ham and vegetables perfectly. You can also use spicy or breakfast sausage depending on your preference.

→ Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, peeled and shredded fresh potatoes can be used. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before cooking to achieve a crispy texture.

→ How do I ensure the hash browns get crispy?

Cook the hash browns over medium heat in butter without stirring too often. Let them brown and crisp before flipping or mixing with other ingredients.

→ What cheeses can replace cheddar in this dish?

Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, mozzarella offers a mild meltiness, and gouda brings a smoky depth. Choose based on your flavor preference.

→ Can I add eggs to this hash?

Absolutely! Topping with a fried or poached egg adds creamy richness and extra protein to the dish.