Pin This hearty sausage and potato hash has been my weekend breakfast champion for years. The magic happens when those golden potatoes meet savory sausage in a single skillet, creating a meal that works just as beautifully for dinner as it does for brunch. I love how the potatoes develop crispy edges while the peppers add bright pops of color and flavor.
I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu brunch for friends who stayed overnight after a snowstorm. With limited ingredients but a hungry crowd, this hash came together beautifully and has since become my signature dish when entertaining for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- Smoked sausage or breakfast sausage: 350g creates the savory foundation. Look for high quality sausage with visible spices and minimal fillers
- Yukon Gold or russet potatoes: 600g provide the perfect texture. Choose firm potatoes without green spots or sprouts
- Yellow onion: adds aromatic sweetness when caramelized. Select one with tight dry skin
- Red and green bell peppers: bring color and vitamins. Look for glossy firm peppers without soft spots
- Fresh garlic cloves: offer more flavor than pre minced versions. Choose firm bulbs without sprouts
- Olive oil: helps achieve the perfect crisp texture on potatoes. Extra virgin adds more flavor
- Smoked paprika: delivers deep smoky notes that complement the sausage beautifully
- Dried thyme: adds earthy herbal notes that stand up to the robust flavors
- Salt and pepper: enhance all the other ingredients. Kosher salt works best here
- Fresh parsley: brightens the finished dish with color and freshness
Instructions
- Crisp the Potatoes:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the diced potatoes in a single layer if possible, allowing them to develop a golden crust before stirring. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they develop a light golden exterior but remain tender inside. The key is patience here. Do not rush this step as properly crisped potatoes form the foundation of this dish. Once golden, remove them to a plate and set aside.
- Soften the Vegetables:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet, maintaining all those flavorful bits from the potatoes. Add the diced onion and bell peppers, spreading them evenly across the pan. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften and the onions become translucent. The vegetables should maintain some texture rather than becoming completely soft.
- Brown the Sausage:
- Add the sliced sausage to the vegetables, distributing evenly throughout the pan. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the edges to brown and caramelize. The sausage will release some fat which will further flavor the vegetables. If using precooked sausage, you are primarily looking to heat it through and develop some color on the edges.
- Add Aromatics and Seasonings:
- Sprinkle in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly for about 1 minute. This brief cooking time allows the garlic to become fragrant without burning and helps bloom the spices, releasing their essential oils and intensifying their flavors. You should be able to smell the garlic and spices becoming aromatic.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the reserved potatoes to the skillet, gently folding everything together to ensure even distribution of ingredients and flavors. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the potatoes to reheat and absorb the flavors from the sausage and seasonings. During this time, occasionally press the mixture against the pan to create more crispy edges. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if using. The residual heat will slightly wilt the parsley, releasing its bright aroma. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation or transfer to a serving dish.
Pin The smoked paprika is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power years ago when I accidentally grabbed it instead of regular paprika. The subtle smokiness it imparts makes even the simplest ingredients taste like they spent hours developing flavor. My family now requests this hash specifically for our holiday breakfasts, and the aroma filling the house has become part of our celebration tradition.
Storage and Reheating
This hash stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they have time to meld together. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of water to prevent drying out. For best results, avoid microwave reheating which can make the potatoes soggy.
For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a skillet. While the texture of the potatoes will change slightly after freezing, the flavor remains excellent.
Customization Options
This recipe welcomes endless variations based on what you have available. Try swapping the smoked sausage for chorizo to add a spicy kick, or use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Vegetarians can substitute plant based sausage or simply add an extra cup of diced vegetables.
For the vegetables, feel free to incorporate whatever needs using up in your refrigerator. Mushrooms add wonderful umami flavor, zucchini brings summer freshness, and spinach or kale can be stirred in during the final minutes for added nutrition. Sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes for a different flavor profile and nutritional boost.
Serving Suggestions
Transform this hash into a complete brunch by topping each serving with a fried or poached egg. The runny yolk creates a natural sauce that elevates the entire dish. For dinner, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
For entertaining, set up a hash bar with various toppings like avocado slices, hot sauce, shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs. Let guests customize their own bowls for a fun interactive meal.
Nutritional Benefits
This hash delivers a well balanced meal in a single dish. The potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while the sausage offers protein to keep you satisfied. Bell peppers contribute vitamins A and C, and the olive oil adds healthy fats.
For a more nutritionally dense version, incorporate additional vegetables like kale or spinach, which add vitamins K, A, and C plus iron and calcium. Using sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes increases the vitamin A content significantly.
Pin This sausage and potato hash is a versatile dish perfect for any meal. Its hearty flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend brunches.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, both smoked sausage and breakfast sausage work well. Feel free to use turkey or chorizo for a twist.
- → What potatoes are best for this dish?
Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are ideal, as they become golden and tender when fried in a skillet.
- → Is it possible to make this meal gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free sausage and always check packaging for hidden allergens.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Definitely. Chopped spinach, kale, or other seasonal vegetables can add nutrition and fresh flavor.
- → How do you store leftovers?
Cool completely and keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
- → What pairs well with this hash?
Try topping with poached eggs and serving alongside a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.