Pin It Sweet Potato and Bacon Breakfast Hash is my go to recipe when I want a cozy, savory brunch without a lot of fuss. It transforms humble sweet potatoes and a few pantry staples into something hearty and flavorful enough to please any crowd. This skillet dish packs in smoky bacon, tender caramelized sweet potatoes, and soft onions so every bite tastes like comfort.
This was the first big breakfast my partner and I made together after moving in. It has become our rainy Saturday tradition because it feels like a treat but is so easy to pull off that we always have energy left for weekend adventures.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: They add sweetness and earthy flavor Choose firm sweet potatoes that feel heavy for their size and have vibrant orange flesh without greenish spots
- Thick cut bacon: This brings a punchy salty flavor and helps crisp the hash Seek out bacon with a high meat content for best texture
- Yellow onion: Adds mellow sweetness and rounds out the base Look for firm onions with papery skins and no soft spots
- Red bell pepper: Brightens everything with a mild sweetness and pop of color Choose peppers that feel heavy and taut
- Fresh garlic: Gives the hash savory depth Pick heads that are tight and free of sprouting
- Smoked paprika: Provides a gentle smokiness and warmth Spanish smoked paprika is my favorite
- Kosher salt: Ensures all the flavors come forward Taste as you go
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper bumps up the savoriness
- Olive oil: Helps the potatoes brown evenly and keeps them from sticking Use a neutral oil if you prefer
- Eggs: Optional but highly recommended for serving Look for eggs with golden yolks for best presentation
Instructions
- Render and Crisp the Bacon:
- Cut the bacon crosswise into bite sized strips before cooking This lets it brown evenly Work in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat Stir occasionally for 7 to 10 minutes until the pieces are just crisp but not burnt Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon onto a plate and leave the fat in the pan
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the leftover bacon fat The goal here is to soften the vegetables and draw out their sweetness over about 5 minutes Lower the heat if needed so they do not brown too quickly
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
- Toss diced sweet potatoes into the skillet and sprinkle with salt paprika and black pepper Stir to coat every piece well Pour in a splash of water around two tablespoons and cover with a lid Let the potatoes steam for about 8 minutes until nearly tender stirring once or twice
- Caramelize and Crisp Everything:
- Remove the lid raise the heat and drizzle in a little olive oil This step is about letting the sweet potatoes take on golden crispy edges Stir every couple minutes for 6 to 8 minutes until everything is just browned and cooked through Scatter in minced garlic for the final minute
- Return the Bacon and Finish:
- Tip the crisp bacon back into the skillet Stir well so that every bite has a bit of everything Taste and adjust seasoning Now is the time to fry or poach a few eggs if you want that extra brunch touch
- Serve:
- Pile the hash onto plates with eggs on top Garnish with fresh herbs or hot sauce if you like
Pin It Cooking sweet potatoes in bacon fat is pure magic My kids think it is the best part and always sneak bites while it is still sizzling in the pan This is one of those meals everyone in my family looks forward to and I know there will never be leftovers when I serve it
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator Hash is best eaten within three days For quick mornings reheat portions in a hot skillet to bring back their crispiness Microwaving works but will soften the texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have bacon try diced ham chicken apple sausage or smoked turkey Even without meat you can use smoked paprika and an extra hit of olive oil for depth Red onions or even leeks work in place of yellow onion and feel free to toss in greens like spinach at the end for extra color
Serving Suggestions
I love this with fried eggs and a sprinkle of chopped chives For heat offer hot sauce or a side of salsa If you need a more filling spread serve toasted country bread on the side or add a simple green salad with crunchy apples to cut through the richness
Cultural and Historical Context
Breakfast hash has roots in many food cultures as a way to use up leftovers stretching precious ingredients into a full meal In America it became especially popular in diners and at weekend family tables Hash proves that you do not need fancy cuts of meat or special equipment to make something deeply comforting and delicious
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap butternut squash or diced pumpkin for sweet potatoes in autumn Use chopped asparagus and peas for a spring version Add fresh corn or jalapeños to highlight summer produce
Pin It Trust me making hash is all about confidence and using what is in your fridge The first time I made this I nearly burned the potatoes but learned that patience and tasting as you go is the real secret to getting the best skillet hash every time
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of potato works best?
Sweet potatoes provide a soft texture and natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor balance.
- → Can this hash be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the bacon and add mushrooms or bell peppers for a delicious meat-free version.
- → How should the bacon be cooked for best results?
Cook bacon until crisp in the skillet, then remove and crumble it before combining with the sweet potatoes.
- → Can you add eggs to breakfast hash?
Yes, eggs can be fried or poached and served on top for extra richness and protein.
- → What herbs pair well with this dish?
Fresh parsley, chives, or thyme add color and earthy notes that complement the sweet potato and bacon.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Prepare the hash ahead and reheat portions for quick breakfasts throughout the week.