Description
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)
Instructions
- 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. - 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. - 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. - Stir in the Meat
Add the cooked sausage and bacon back into the skillet. Stir to combine everything and heat through. - Season with Salt and Pepper
Add salt and pepper to taste, making sure the dish is seasoned just right. - 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. - 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. - Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese) on top of the eggs and continue cooking until the cheese is melted. - 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. - Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Make it Spicy: For a spicy twist, top with pickled jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce right before serving.
Storage Tips:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.