Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet

A breakfast skillet is the perfect way to start your day with a hearty and flavorful meal. This Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet recipe combines crispy bacon, savory sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh vegetables, topped off with eggs and melted cheese for the ultimate breakfast dish. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a filling meal on a busy morning or a weekend brunch option, this skillet recipe is a winner.

Ingredients

• 4-6 strips bacon (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 20 oz refrigerated potatoes (or 3-4 cups frozen hash browns)
• ½ cup sweet onion (diced, optional)
• ½ cup red bell pepper (diced, optional)
• 8-10 sausage links (cooked, chopped)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite)
• Green onions (sliced)
• Tomatoes (sliced)
• Avocado (sliced)
• Jalapenos (seeds removed and sliced)
• Parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Bacon
   In a large skillet or cast iron pan, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pan and set it on a paper towel to drain any excess grease.
2. Cook the Potatoes
   Add the refrigerated or frozen potatoes to the skillet, and cook them until they’re browned and crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Add Vegetables (Optional)
   If you’re using vegetables like diced sweet onion and red bell pepper, add them to the skillet. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re tender.
4. Stir in the Meat
   Add the cooked sausage and bacon back into the skillet. Stir to combine everything and heat through.
5. Season with Salt and Pepper
   Add salt and pepper to taste, making sure the dish is seasoned just right.
6. Make Wells for the Eggs
   Create small wells in the mixture with a spoon. Carefully break one egg into each well, ensuring the yolk stays intact.
7. Cook the Eggs
   Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium-low heat until the whites of the eggs are set but the yolks are still runny, about 8-10 minutes.
8. Add the Cheese
   Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese) on top of the eggs and continue cooking until the cheese is melted.
9. Serve with Toppings
   Serve the skillet immediately with your choice of toppings, such as sliced green onions, tomatoes, avocado, jalapenos, and a sprinkle of parsley for garnish.
10. Store Leftovers
    If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet

This recipe is versatile, so you can mix and match ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you want to keep it simple with just bacon and eggs or load it up with vegetables, sausage, and cheese, it’s entirely customizable. It’s also an easy one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of crispy bacon, savory sausage, and gooey cheese over perfectly cooked potatoes creates a satisfying and delicious meal that will keep you full throughout the morning.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

1. Customize with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! You can add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
2. Pair with a Side: Serve your breakfast skillet with a side of crusty toast, fresh fruit, or even some crispy hashbrowns for an added touch.
3. Add a Protein Boost: For even more protein, add a side of turkey bacon or extra sausage links. This can make it even more filling and satisfying.
4. Make it Spicy: For a spicy twist, top with pickled jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce right before serving.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerating Leftovers: If you have any leftover skillet, let it cool down to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the skillet in a pan over low heat until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the eggs may become firmer.
3. Freezing: Although not recommended due to the texture of the eggs, you can freeze leftovers without eggs for up to a month. Reheat on the stovetop and add fresh eggs if desired.
4. Store the Toppings Separately: If you have leftover toppings like avocado, tomatoes, or jalapenos, store them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Add them to the skillet just before serving to keep them fresh.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and sausage and load up on more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also add beans or tofu for a protein boost.
2. Sweet Potato Skillet: Replace the regular potatoes with diced sweet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutrient-dense version. Sweet potatoes also add a vibrant color and a rich, earthy flavor.
3. Southwest Skillet: Add black beans, corn, and diced green chilies for a southwestern twist. Top with some salsa and a dollop of sour cream to complete the theme.
4. Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, feta, or even goat cheese for a more tangy flavor.
5. Keto-Friendly Skillet: For a keto version, use cauliflower rice instead of potatoes, and skip the bread and higher-carb ingredients. You can also replace the sausage with ground turkey or chicken sausage.
6. Bacon and Avocado Lovers: Increase the amount of bacon for extra crunch and flavor, and top the skillet with extra slices of creamy avocado for a richer, more indulgent dish.
7. Spicy Skillet: Add diced jalapenos or other hot peppers into the mix for some heat. For an extra spicy kick, sprinkle in a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
8. Greek-Inspired Skillet: Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, red onion, and some fresh oregano to give the skillet a Mediterranean flair. You can even add a dollop of tzatziki sauce on top when serving.
9. Egg-Free Option: For those who prefer egg-free dishes, simply omit the eggs and instead top the skillet with a vegan cheese or another protein source like chickpeas or tempeh.
10. Smoky Flavors: Incorporate smoked sausage or smoked paprika into the skillet for a smoky, deep flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes and vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I make this breakfast skillet ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time by chopping vegetables, cooking the sausage, and frying the bacon. You can then assemble and cook the skillet in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
2. Can I use frozen hash browns instead of refrigerated potatoes? Absolutely! Frozen hash browns work just as well and can save you time. Simply thaw them before using for the best results.
3. What kind of cheese is best for this recipe? Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to use any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites.
4. Can I make this skillet without eggs? Yes, you can skip the eggs and still have a delicious meal. You can replace the eggs with extra vegetables, tofu, or a different protein source if you prefer.
5. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until hot.
6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to double-check any pre-packaged ingredients like sausage or cheese to ensure they are gluten-free.
7. Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, kale, zucchini, or even roasted tomatoes.
8. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet? You can make this recipe keto-friendly by replacing the potatoes with cauliflower rice or simply skipping the potatoes altogether.
9. Can I cook this on the stovetop? Yes, you can make this breakfast skillet entirely on the stovetop. Just cook the ingredients in a large skillet and follow the same steps for adding eggs and cheese.
10. How can I make this breakfast skillet spicier? Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to increase the heat. You can also add spicy sausage or chili flakes for an extra kick!

This Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet is the perfect way to fuel your day. It’s a complete meal in one skillet that brings together all your breakfast favorites in a single dish. With options to customize based on your taste, it’s an easy and satisfying recipe that can be made in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a family, this skillet will quickly become a breakfast favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a filling, flavorful start to your day!

Print