Start your day off right with this Loaded Hashbrown Breakfast recipe! Crispy hashbrowns are topped with all your favorite breakfast ingredients—melted cheese, crispy bacon, fresh green onions, and a perfectly fried egg. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and sure to keep you full and energized throughout the day. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special breakfast, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Hashbrown Base
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns (thawed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying eggs)
- Optional garnishes: Paprika, sour cream, hot sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Hashbrowns
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thawed hashbrowns, salt, and black pepper. Spread them evenly in the skillet and press down slightly. Cook for 5-7 minutes on one side without stirring, until crispy and golden brown. Flip the hashbrowns and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side, until they are crispy throughout. Transfer to a serving plate.
Step 2: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hot hashbrowns while they are still in the skillet, allowing the cheese to melt. Cover with a lid for about 1-2 minutes if necessary to help melt the cheese completely.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Eggs
In a separate skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Crumble the bacon once cooled.
Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook to your preference—sunny side up, over easy, or over medium.
Step 4: Assemble the Loaded Hashbrowns
Once the hashbrowns are ready and topped with cheese, add the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions on top. Carefully place a fried egg on each portion of hashbrowns.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with paprika, sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Cook Notes
- Hashbrown Cooking Tip: For extra crispy hashbrowns, make sure to press them down into an even layer and avoid stirring too much during cooking.
- Cheese Options: Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses also work great for this recipe.
- Egg Doneness: The runny yolk of a sunny side up or over-easy egg adds a rich, velvety texture to the hashbrowns, but feel free to cook the eggs to your liking.
Variations
1. Loaded Veggie Hashbrowns
Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the hashbrowns for a veggie-loaded version. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the hashbrowns to ensure they are tender.
2. Spicy Loaded Hashbrowns
Add a bit of heat by sprinkling red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices over the hashbrowns. You can also use pepper jack cheese for extra spiciness.
3. Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast
Replace the bacon with cooked breakfast sausage crumbles for a slightly different flavor. Sausage and hashbrowns make an excellent combination.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast.
- Toast: Pair with buttered toast or English muffins to soak up the delicious egg yolk.
- Avocado: Add sliced avocado on top for a creamy, nutritious addition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hashbrowns?
Yes! You can shred fresh russet potatoes and soak them in water for about 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry thoroughly before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover loaded hashbrowns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to maintain crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can spread the hashbrowns on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway through. Then add the toppings and bake until the cheese melts.
This Loaded Hashbrown Breakfast is a hearty and flavorful way to start your day. With crispy hashbrowns, melted cheese, and a perfectly fried egg, it’s a breakfast that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Feel free to add your favorite toppings or variations to make it uniquely yours. Whether for a lazy weekend brunch or a busy weekday treat, this dish will leave you feeling full and happy!
Did you make this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below and share your favorite breakfast toppings!
