
This hearty breakfast skillet is just the thing for laid back weekends when you want something filling but easy. With crispy potatoes, juicy sausage, a rainbow of sautéed peppers, and eggs cooked right on top, it is pure comfort in a single pan. I love making this for friends or family when everyone wakes up hungry and there is only one pan to wash.
I started making this skillet after one too many cafeteria breakfasts fell flat and now my people ask for it almost every Sunday. Nothing beats a hot pan straight from the stove with runny eggs and crisped potatoes on a chilly morning.
Ingredients
- Baby potatoes: Diced into cubes give this skillet its signature crispy outside and fluffy inside Choose firm small potatoes with thin skins for best texture
- Breakfast sausage: Brings big savory flavor You can use pork chicken or turkey sausage just make sure to remove the casings Look for sausage with visible marbling and plenty of seasoning
- Onion and bell peppers: Red and green create color and sweetness Fresh peppers should feel heavy and glossy
- Garlic: Minced wakes up the whole dish Buy firm cloves for the brightest flavor
- Eggs: Nestle right into the hash for a classic finish The fresher the eggs the more golden the yolks
- Olive oil or butter: Helps everything brown Choose extra virgin olive oil for fruitiness or unsalted butter for richness
- Salt and black pepper: Build layers of flavor Use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper if possible
- Smoked paprika and chili flakes: Offer optional depth and a gentle kick For the best flavor go for Spanish smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley or chives: Sprinkled on at the end add green freshness Pick vibrant leaves with no yellowing
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat Pour in one tablespoon of oil and let it shimmer Add the diced potatoes then season with salt and pepper Stir and spread into a single layer Cook for about ten to twelve minutes turning every few minutes until the potatoes are golden all over and tender inside Transfer them to a plate and set aside This step gives you the crispy base you want
- Cook the Sausage:
- Return to your skillet and drop in the sausage Break it up with a spatula as it sizzles letting the pieces brown well all over Cook for about five to six minutes until fully cooked and caramelized Spoon off any excess fat for a lighter dish
- Add Veggies:
- If the skillet is dry add another splash of oil Toss in your chopped onion red and green peppers and minced garlic Cook for three to four minutes stirring often until the veggies are soft and fragrant Let the onion get translucent for extra flavor
- Combine and Season:
- Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet Sprinkle smoked paprika and chili flakes over everything if you are using them Toss the whole pan together and let it cook for another two to three minutes This crisps the edges and lets the spices bloom
- Add the Eggs:
- Use your spoon to make four small wells in the hash Crack an egg into each well Keep the heat low Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for four to six minutes The eggs should be just set on top but with yolks as runny or firm as you like
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs and an extra pinch of salt and pepper over the skillet Bring the whole pan right to the table and serve warm

The smoked paprika is what makes this dish a standout for me It gives the potatoes a subtle warmth and an almost campfire flavor My family always gathers in the kitchen when this starts sizzling on the stove and someone always tries to sneak a crispy potato right out of the pan
Storage and Make Ahead
This skillet keeps beautifully Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days To reheat scoop portions into a skillet and warm gently over medium heat or microwave for a couple of minutes The eggs hold up surprisingly well just avoid overcooking them when reheating If you want to prep ahead dice your potatoes and veggies the night before and store them in water in the fridge
Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to substitute sweet potatoes for baby potatoes for a sweeter finish If you are out of sausage try diced ham cooked bacon or even crumbled tofu for a plant based option Use any color bell pepper or add other veggies like zucchini or spinach Swap fresh herbs for whatever you have Thyme or cilantro both make the skillet taste extra fresh
Serving Suggestions
Bring the skillet right to the table for a rustic look and let everyone help themselves Add a basket of warm bread or toast for dunking If you like a little spice a drizzle of hot sauce or a spoonful of salsa brings an extra kick For brunch buffets set out sour cream and shredded cheese for guests to make it their own

This skillet is guaranteed to warm up any morning Serve sizzling and watch how quickly it disappears from the table.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different meat instead of sausage?
Yes! Swap sausage for diced ham, bacon, turkey, or chicken depending on your preference.
- → What potatoes work best for the skillet?
Baby or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and ability to crisp up nicely.
- → How do I prevent the eggs from overcooking?
Cover the pan and cook eggs gently on low heat. Check frequently for your desired doneness.
- → Can I make this dish ahead for meal prep?
Yes, prepare the base and add eggs when reheating. It keeps well refrigerated for up to two days.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! All main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check sausage labels for additives.
- → What cheese melts best in the skillet?
Cheddar or pepper jack are great choices. Sprinkle before covering so the cheese melts with the eggs.