Start your mornings on a hearty and flavorful note with this Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet! Packed with crispy potatoes, sizzling bacon, fresh veggies, and gooey melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort breakfast. This one-pan dish combines all your favorite breakfast components into a single satisfying meal.
Perfect for weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, this skillet is as versatile as it is delicious. The recipe is easy to customize with your preferred ingredients, from sausage to spinach, making it a crowd-pleaser for all palates.
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this skillet breakfast is sure to become a go-to in your morning routine. Let’s dig into this hearty and satisfying recipe that guarantees a great start to your day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortlessly Fast and Simple
This one-pan breakfast skillet is a breeze to make, offering a delicious combination of flavors in just 30 minutes. It streamlines your morning routine while ensuring a satisfying, hearty meal to start your day on a positive note.
Endlessly Customizable
You can easily swap or add ingredients to suit your personal tastes—choose your favorite meats, veggies, and cheeses. Whether you prefer bacon, sausage, mushrooms, or spinach, this skillet adapts effortlessly to your preferences.
Family-Friendly Comfort
The classic combination of crispy potatoes, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked eggs appeals to kids and adults alike. It’s a reliable breakfast choice that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied appetites.
Great for Gatherings
With generous portions and a visually appealing presentation, this skillet is a hit at family brunches, brunch gatherings, or any breakfast-centric event where hearty and filling dishes are a must.
Nutrient-Packed Start to the Day
Filled with essential nutrients, this skillet combines proteins, carbs, and vitamins from eggs, potatoes, and vegetables, ensuring a balanced and energy-boosting breakfast.
How to Make the Recipe
- Cook the Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add diced bacon. Allow it to cook for 5–7 minutes until it turns golden and crispy, releasing its smoky aroma. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet for flavor. - Prepare the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet with the bacon grease, spreading them evenly in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to achieve a crispy exterior, then stir occasionally for 8–10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for added warmth and depth. - Sauté the Vegetables
Push the cooked potatoes to one side of the skillet and add chopped onions and bell peppers to the other. Cook the vegetables for 3–5 minutes, stirring until they soften and their natural sweetness enhances the dish. Mix them with the potatoes for even distribution. - Add the Eggs
Using the back of a spoon, create small wells in the potato mixture, making space for the eggs. Crack an egg into each well and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the eggs cook for 3–5 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks reach your preferred consistency. - Finish with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across the skillet, allowing it to melt into the eggs, potatoes, and vegetables. Let it sit uncovered for 1–2 minutes, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that ties the dish together beautifully. - Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot, pairing it with toast, sour cream, or avocado for extra flair.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Pre-Cook Potatoes: For faster cooking, use pre-cooked or frozen diced potatoes.
- Control the Heat: Keep the heat medium-low when adding eggs to avoid overcooking.
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet: Prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup by using a good-quality skillet.
- Add Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the bacon and load up on colorful veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes for a plant-based breakfast packed with nutrients.
- Spicy Fiesta: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the skillet for a zesty, fiery twist that pairs perfectly with a dollop of sour cream.
- Protein Powerhouse: Replace bacon with sausage, ham, or even shredded chicken to create a heartier version that’s perfect for post-workout fuel.
- Southwestern Style: Incorporate black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cumin for a Tex-Mex-inspired skillet, topped with avocado slices and salsa.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, Gouda, or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan to experiment with different cheese flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes are a great alternative and add a touch of natural sweetness to the dish.
2. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute to make this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets.
3. Can I meal prep this skillet?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the potato and veggie mixture in advance and reheat it before adding eggs.
4. What other proteins can I use?
Sausage, ham, or even leftover shredded chicken work wonderfully in this skillet.
5. How can I make the eggs runnier?
Reduce the cooking time after adding the eggs, keeping a close eye on them to achieve the desired doneness.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes. For best results, add a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
The Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet is your ultimate solution for a hearty, satisfying, and effortless morning meal. Combining crispy potatoes, smoky bacon, fresh veggies, and perfectly cooked eggs, this skillet is a delightful way to start your day. Whether you’re preparing it for a family breakfast or a weekend brunch, its customizable nature ensures it will suit everyone’s taste.
With its bold flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or when you’re craving a comforting, home-cooked meal. Give it a try and elevate your breakfast game! Don’t forget to follow Tasty by Ava on Pinterest for more creative and delicious recipes to bring joy to your table.
