Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet – Hearty, Flavorful, and Quick

Mornings are busy, but breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated. A Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet delivers all the flavors of a brunch spread in one pan, making it perfect for lazy weekends or quick weekday meals. Think crispy potatoes, savory sausage or bacon, fresh vegetables, melted cheese, and sunny-side-up eggs all in one colorful, hearty skillet.

This recipe brings together flavors, textures, and nutrition in a way that’s satisfying and versatile. You can make it vegetarian, add extra veggies, or switch proteins depending on your taste. Best of all, cleanup is minimal because everything cooks in a single pan.

The magic of a breakfast skillet lies in its layered textures. Crispy golden potatoes form the base, while caramelized onions and peppers add sweetness. Sausage or bacon brings savory depth, and eggs tie everything together with creamy richness. Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for the finishing touch.

Why Breakfast Skillets Are a Game-Changer

• All-in-One Meal: Proteins, carbs, and vegetables all cooked together.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients based on what you have in the fridge.
• Fast Prep: Most ingredients can be chopped ahead of time.
• Family-Friendly: Feeds a crowd with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 4 breakfast sausages, sliced (or bacon strips)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep Ingredients
   Dice potatoes, onion, and bell pepper. Slice sausage or bacon. Pre-measure seasonings and cheese.
2. Cook Potatoes
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Vegetables and Protein
   Add onions, bell peppers, and sausage/bacon. Cook 5–7 minutes until vegetables soften and meat is browned.
4. Create Wells for Eggs
   Push potato mixture slightly aside to make 4 small wells in the skillet. Crack an egg into each well. Cover skillet and cook 5–6 minutes, or until eggs reach desired doneness.
5. Add Cheese
   Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the skillet. Cover briefly until cheese melts.
6. Garnish and Serve
   Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives. Serve immediately for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Variations and Tips

• Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with extra bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Extra Creamy: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices before serving.
• Make-Ahead: Cook potatoes and vegetables ahead of time; reheat and add eggs for a fast morning meal.

Nutrition Benefits

A loaded breakfast skillet isn’t just indulgent — it’s nourishing:

• Potatoes: Complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Eggs: High-quality protein and essential vitamins.
• Vegetables: Fiber, antioxidants, and flavor.
• Cheese: Adds calcium and protein.

This balanced skillet keeps you full and energized without relying on processed breakfast foods.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fresh fruit or a side salad.
• Serve with whole-grain toast or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
• Ideal for brunch gatherings with coffee, orange juice, or mimosas.

Simple Loaded Breakfast Skillet

A hearty one-pan breakfast with crispy potatoes, vegetables, sausage, eggs, and melted cheese — quick, customizable, and satisfying.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 medium potatoes diced
• 1 onion diced
• 1 bell pepper diced, any color
• 4 breakfast sausages sliced, or bacon strips
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• salt and black pepper to taste
• fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls

Method

 

1. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Cook diced potatoes with seasonings until golden and crispy.
2. Add onions, bell peppers, and sausage/bacon. Cook until vegetables are tender and meat is browned.
3. Create 4 wells in the skillet and crack eggs into each. Cover and cook until eggs reach desired doneness.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over skillet and cover until melted.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve immediately.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, replace meat with extra vegetables or tofu. Prep vegetables the night before for faster morning cooking.