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Crispy Loaded Breakfast Hash Browns Skillet with Smoked Sausage

crispy loaded breakfast hash browns skillet - featured image

A quick and easy breakfast skillet featuring crispy hash browns layered with smoky smoked sausage, sautéed veggies, and melted cheddar cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (about 600g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and patted dry
  • 12 oz (340g) smoked sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds (kielbasa or andouille recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 cup (150g) bell peppers, diced (red, green, or mixed)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1½ cups (170g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Thaw and dry hash browns: Let frozen shredded hash browns thaw for 10-15 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
  2. Prepare veggies and sausage: Dice onion and bell peppers, mince garlic, and slice smoked sausage into ½-inch rounds.
  3. Heat skillet: Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a large 10-12 inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once oil shimmers, spread hash browns evenly and press down gently.
  4. Cook hash browns undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until bottom is golden and crispy.
  5. Flip hash browns carefully and cook for another 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy on the other side. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  6. Sauté sausage and veggies: In a separate pan, add a bit of oil and cook sausage slices for 4-5 minutes until browned. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic; cook 3-4 minutes until softened.
  7. Combine and layer: Spread sausage and veggie mixture evenly over hash browns in skillet. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  8. Melt cheese: Reduce heat to low, cover skillet with lid or foil, and cook 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and gooey.
  9. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh chives on top, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Thoroughly drying the hash browns before cooking is essential for crispiness. Cook sausage and veggies separately to avoid sogginess. Use a cast iron skillet for best crust. Reheat leftovers in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: breakfast, hash browns, smoked sausage, skillet, crispy, cheesy, quick breakfast, brunch