Save This hearty American breakfast skillet combines tender diced beef with golden crispy potatoes for a protein-packed morning meal. The russet potatoes are pan-fried until perfectly crisp, then joined by colorful bell peppers and aromatic onions. Smoked paprika and dried thyme infuse the dish with warm, savory depth throughout the 25-minute cooking process. Each serving delivers 14 grams of protein while remaining naturally gluten-free.
The versatile hash welcomes optional sunny-side-up eggs nestled directly into the skillet, creating rich, runny yolks that complement the crisp potato cubes. Leftover roast beef or steak transforms beautifully into this 40-minute breakfast, making it an excellent choice for repurposing weekend meals into weekday starts. Customize with shredded cheese, hot sauce, or swap sweet potatoes for russets to match your taste preferences.
The kitchen was cold that morning, but the sound of potatoes sizzling in olive oil warmed the whole house up quickly. I stumbled out of bed just wanting something hearty, and this hash ended up being exactly what I needed. There is something deeply satisfying about transforming leftover roast into a meal that feels entirely new.
I remember making this for a crowd of hungry friends after a late night out, and the silence around the table was the best compliment. Everyone was too busy eating to talk, just scraping forks against the pan. It is one of those dishes that disappears the moment it hits the table.
Ingredients
- Cooked Beef: Leftover roast or steak works best here because it adds a rich depth to the dish.
- Russet Potatoes: These are essential for getting that perfect crunch on the outside while staying soft inside.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice brings a warm, smoky flavor that ties everything together beautifully.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green peppers adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- Fresh Parsley: Do not skip the garnish as it adds a fresh note that cuts through the richness.
Instructions
- Start the Potatoes:
- Heat oil in a skillet and add the potatoes, letting them cook undisturbed until they turn golden brown.
- Add Vegetables:
- Toss in the onions and peppers, cooking them until they are soft and fragrant.
- Bloom the Spices:
- Stir in the garlic and spices, cooking for just a minute to wake up their flavors.
- Combine and Heat:
- Mix in the diced beef and cook until everything is hot and well combined.
- Add Eggs (Optional):
- Make wells in the hash, crack in the eggs, and cover the pan until the whites are set.
Save My dad always used to make hash on Sunday mornings, and he would insist on using the big cast iron skillet passed down from his mother. The sheer weight of that pan made the food taste better somehow, heavy and comforting. Now whenever I use my own skillet, I think of those slow, quiet mornings.
Mastering the Cast Iron
If you have a cast iron skillet, this is the time to use it because it holds heat so well. It creates a beautiful crust on the potatoes that is hard to achieve with lighter pans.
Making It Your Own
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have in your crisper drawer. Sometimes I throw in spinach or kale at the very end for some extra greens.
Best Ways to Serve
While this is filling enough on its own, a few sides can elevate the experience.
- A dollop of sour cream on top adds a nice tangy contrast.
- Toasted crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover juices.
- Hot sauce on the side lets everyone control their own spice level.
Save This skillet meal brings a rustic charm to the breakfast table that everyone will appreciate. Grab a fork and dig in while it is hot.
Common Questions
- → What type of beef works best?
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Cooked roast beef, steak, or even leftover brisket work perfectly. Dice the meat into small, uniform cubes for even heating and easy eating with each forkful of potatoes.
- → Can I make this ahead?
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The hash stores beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crispy texture of the potatoes before serving.
- → How do I get crispy potatoes?
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Pat diced potatoes dry before cooking, use adequate oil, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes between flips to develop golden-brown crusts.
- → What sides pair well?
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Crusty bread, toasted English muffins, or buttered toast complement the hearty nature. A fresh fruit salad or lightly dressed greens add brightness to balance the rich flavors.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
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Yes, cooled hash freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet for best texture restoration.
- → Is the egg addition necessary?
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Completely optional. Eggs add richness and protein, but the hash remains satisfying and complete without them. Many enjoy the dish purely as a beef and potato medley.
