Breakfast Skillet

This Breakfast Skillet is the perfect way to start your day! Packed with hearty potatoes, flavorful eggs, and savory sausage, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s quick to prepare and satisfying. Ideal for brunch gatherings or busy weekday mornings, this dish is all about convenience and taste. The combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone craving more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan, you can whip up a delicious breakfast in under 35 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your skillet with any seasonal vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
• Hearty and Filling: This meal is packed with protein and carbs to keep you energized throughout the day.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make extra servings for easy reheating during the week.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Breakfast Skillet a breeze, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything comes together perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking and perfect browning.
• Wooden spoon: Gentle on non-stick surfaces while allowing you to stir without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Protein

• 8-10 slices chicken bacon, chopped
• 8 breakfast turkey sausage links

For the Vegetables

• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Base

• 1.5 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½’’ cubes (about 3 cups)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

For Topping

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, or your favorite cheese
• 2 green onions, chopped, for garnish

For Serving

• Salsa, for serving
• Hot sauce, for serving

How to Make Breakfast Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Add turkey sausage links to a 12’’ skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan onto a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bacon

In the same pan, add chicken bacon pieces. Cook until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove bacon to the plate with sausage while leaving some grease in the pan (add oil or butter if needed).

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Add diced potatoes in a single layer to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until crispy on all sides. Push potatoes off to one side of the pan.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the empty side of the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until tender.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Chop cooked sausage into bite-sized pieces and return both sausage and chicken bacon back to the pan. Sprinkle everything with smoked paprika.

Step 6: Add Eggs

Use a wooden spoon to create six wells in the mixture. Crack an egg into each well and season lightly with salt and pepper. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheese over everything.

Step 7: Cook Covered

Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat until egg whites are set, approximately a few minutes. Garnish with green onions before serving alongside salsa and hot sauce.

Enjoy your delicious Breakfast Skillet!

How to Serve Breakfast Skillet

Serving a Breakfast Skillet is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal. It can be customized with various toppings and sides, making it versatile for any occasion.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or cilantro: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an added burst of flavor and color.

Include Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado: Offer sliced avocado on the side for a rich, buttery texture that complements the dish.

Pair with Toast

• Crusty bread or bagels: Serve with toasted bread or bagels to soak up the delicious juices from the skillet.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Salsa or hot sauce: Provide red or green salsa, or your favorite hot sauce for those who like an extra kick.

Offer Fresh Fruit

• Seasonal fruit salad: A light fruit salad on the side can balance the richness of the skillet.

How to Perfect Breakfast Skillet

Creating a perfect Breakfast Skillet involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use even-sized potatoes: Cut potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.

• Pre-cook frozen hash browns: If using frozen hash browns, thaw them first for better texture and quicker cooking.

• Control the heat: Cook on medium heat for crispiness, but lower it when adding eggs to ensure they cook gently without burning.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Breakfast Skillet

Complement your Breakfast Skillet with these tasty side dishes. They enhance the meal while providing additional flavors and textures.

1. Fruit Smoothie: A refreshing blend of fruits and yogurt, perfect for a nutritious drink alongside your skillet.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a sweet and healthy side.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender can add color and nutrition to your plate.

4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruits makes for a wholesome complement.

5. Crispy Hash Browns: Extra crispy hash browns provide a delightful crunch that pairs well with eggs.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting touch that goes hand-in-hand with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the perfect Breakfast Skillet. Here are some tips:

• Overcrowding the Pan: When you add too many ingredients at once, they will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Using Inconsistent Potato Sizes: If your potato pieces are uneven, some will be undercooked while others are overcooked. Aim for uniform ½ inch cubes.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning your ingredients can result in bland flavors. Don’t forget to season each layer for maximum taste.
• Not Covering the Pan: Leaving the pan uncovered while cooking eggs can lead to runny whites. Use a lid to ensure even cooking and melting cheese.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Different ingredients have varying cook times. Pay attention to each step to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Breakfast Skillet

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Breakfast Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Breakfast Skillet:

Can I customize my Breakfast Skillet?

Yes! You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute meats according to your preference.

How do I make my Breakfast Skillet healthier?

Opt for leaner meats and include more vegetables. You can also reduce cheese or use low-fat options.

What is the best type of skillet for this recipe?

A cast iron skillet works wonderfully as it retains heat well and gives great browning.

Can I prepare this Breakfast Skillet ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients ahead of time but it’s best cooked fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Breakfast Skillet is not only hearty and filling but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your choice of veggies or proteins. Try this easy recipe today, and enjoy a delicious breakfast that caters to everyone’s tastes!