This hearty breakfast skillet is the perfect weekend indulgence for your family. Packed with crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and crispy bacon, all topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and a creamy sauce, this dish is a breakfast winner. It’s easy to make, hearty, and satisfying—ideal for lazy Saturday mornings or when you need something that will keep everyone full all day. Whether you serve it with a side of toast or enjoy it as a standalone meal, this breakfast skillet is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
Ingredients
- 400 grams of potatoes, peeled and sliced
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 hunting sausages, sliced
- 100 grams bacon, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 100 ml cream (20% fat)
- 100 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into even, thin slices. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the potato slices in a single layer. Season with salt and paprika, then fry until golden and crispy, about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to avoid burning. Once cooked, transfer the potatoes to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage and Bacon: In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and sliced hunting sausages. Cook until the bacon is crispy and the sausages are browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and bacon. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the crispy potatoes back into the skillet with the sausage, bacon, and vegetables. Stir to combine everything, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Cream: Layer the sliced tomatoes over the mixture, then pour the cream evenly over the top. Let it cook for 2 minutes to warm through and allow the cream to thicken slightly.
- Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the skillet and cover. Allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 2mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Breakfast Skillet
The breakfast skillet, often filled with eggs, meat, potatoes, and cheese, has long been a beloved dish in many countries, particularly in the United States. It likely evolved from the classic American breakfast, which includes hearty ingredients like bacon, sausage, eggs, and potatoes. While it’s hard to pin down a specific origin, the dish is a natural evolution of the rustic, farm-to-table meals that farmers and workers would prepare in one pan for a filling, nutritious start to their day. The addition of cream, cheese, and vegetables in more modern versions adds richness and flavor, turning the skillet into a meal that can be served at any time of day, not just breakfast. The concept of the skillet meal has spread across various cultures, each adding its own twist. The Hearty Potato, Sausage, and Bacon Breakfast Skillet, in particular, has grown in popularity due to its simplicity, delicious combination of flavors, and ability to feed a crowd. It’s perfect for weekends, gatherings, or busy mornings when you need something that’s satisfying and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it combines all of your favorite breakfast ingredients into one simple, flavorful dish. The crispy potatoes provide a satisfying crunch, the sausages and bacon add savory depth, and the melted mozzarella creates a rich, gooey finish. The addition of tomatoes gives the skillet a light, refreshing element that balances out the richness of the cream and cheese. It’s filling, comforting, and makes for the perfect family-friendly breakfast or brunch. Plus, it’s easy to make, with only a few steps to follow, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Health Benefits of Hearty Potato, Sausage, and Bacon Breakfast Skillet
While this dish is indulgent, it also offers several health benefits when made with fresh ingredients. Potatoes are a great source of potassium and vitamin C, which are important for heart health and immune function. The bacon and sausage provide a source of protein, though they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The tomatoes provide antioxidants, including lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health and fighting inflammation. The mozzarella cheese is a source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. The cream, although rich in fat, adds a luxurious texture and flavor. When paired with vegetables and served in moderation, this hearty breakfast skillet can be part of a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty breakfast skillet can be served in various ways. For a more complete breakfast, add a side of fresh fruit or a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish. Whole-grain toast or crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce and melted cheese. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider serving it with a refreshing cucumber or avocado salad on the side. For a heartier version, top it off with a fried or poached egg to add more protein and flavor. You can also pair this dish with a hot cup of coffee or a fresh juice to complement the flavors.
Tips
- For crispier potatoes, make sure to fry them in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- You can replace the cream with milk or a lighter version for a less rich dish.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño with the onions.
- Feel free to switch up the type of sausage—chorizo, breakfast sausage, or turkey sausage are all great options.
- Don’t skip the tomatoes—they add a nice burst of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Skillet: Replace the sausage and bacon with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Smoky Skillet: Add a few drops of liquid smoke or use smoked sausage for a smoky flavor that pairs well with the potatoes and cheese.
- Spicy Skillet: Add diced green chilies or hot sauce to bring heat to the dish, making it perfect for spice lovers.
- Creamy Spinach Skillet: Add a handful of spinach along with the tomatoes and cream for a nutritious green twist.
- Mexican Skillet: Replace the mozzarella with cheddar cheese, and top with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro for a delicious Mexican-inspired version.
Conclusion
This Hearty Potato, Sausage, and Bacon Breakfast Skillet is a versatile, comforting meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Whether you make it for a weekend brunch or an everyday breakfast, it’s sure to satisfy your family’s hunger and keep everyone coming back for more. With a combination of crispy potatoes, savory meats, fresh tomatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s a one-pan dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and sausage mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat and add the cream and cheese. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can swap mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or any other cheese that melts well. -
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the skillet to make the dish spicy. -
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen potatoes can work, but be sure to cook them thoroughly to achieve that crispy texture. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.