Corned Beef Hash Skillet: The Ultimate One-Pan Breakfast Recipe

Corned Beef Hash Skillet: the ultimate comfort food that transforms humble leftovers into a hearty and satisfying meal! Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Do you have leftover corned beef from a recent celebration? Then prepare to be amazed by this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make dish. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a culinary adventure that will awaken your taste buds and leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of corned beef hash are debated, it’s widely believed to have emerged as a way to utilize leftover corned beef, particularly in regions with strong Irish-American communities. Think of it as a delicious act of culinary resourcefulness! Over time, it evolved from a simple way to avoid food waste into a beloved dish enjoyed across generations and cultures.

What makes a Corned Beef Hash Skillet so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, slightly charred potatoes, the savory corned beef, and the optional (but highly recommended!) fried egg on top create a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. It’s also incredibly convenient. This one-pan wonder is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable – add your favorite vegetables, spices, or sauces to create your own signature version. Trust me, once you try this Corned Beef Hash Skillet, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 pound cooked corned beef, diced
• 1 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Vegetables and Corned Beef

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep our veggies and corned beef. This is the most time-consuming part, but trust me, it’s worth it!

1. Dice the Onion: Grab your medium yellow onion and carefully dice it into small, even pieces. We want them to cook evenly and not overpower the other flavors. Set aside.
2. Dice the Bell Peppers: Now, take your green and red bell peppers. Remove the seeds and membranes, and then dice them into pieces similar in size to the onion. The colorful peppers add a nice sweetness and visual appeal to the hash. Set aside with the onion.
3. Dice the Corned Beef: If you haven’t already, dice your cooked corned beef into ½-inch cubes. I like to use leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day, but you can also find pre-cooked corned beef at most grocery stores. Make sure it’s cooked, though! Set aside.
4. Dice the Potatoes: This is arguably the most important step. Peel your Yukon Gold potatoes and dice them into ½-inch cubes. Yukon Golds are my favorite because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture. Make sure the potato cubes are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place the diced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the other ingredients. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust on the potatoes.

Cooking the Hash

Now for the fun part – cooking! We’re going to build layers of flavor in the skillet, starting with the potatoes and then adding the other ingredients.

1. Sauté the Potatoes: Drain the diced potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help them crisp up nicely in the skillet. Heat the olive oil in a large (12-inch) cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced potatoes. Spread them out in a single layer as much as possible.
2. Season the Potatoes: Season the potatoes with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – potatoes need a good amount of salt to bring out their flavor.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. The key here is to let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes at a time to develop a nice crust on the bottom. If they start to stick, add a little more olive oil.
4. Add the Onion and Bell Peppers: Once the potatoes are mostly cooked, add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir to combine with the potatoes.
5. Continue Cooking: Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the onion and bell peppers are softened, about 5-7 minutes. They should be tender but still have a little bit of bite.
6. Add the Corned Beef: Add the diced corned beef to the skillet. Stir to combine with the potatoes, onion, and bell peppers.
7. Season with Spices: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the hash. Stir to combine and ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
8. Cook Until Heated Through: Cook the hash, stirring occasionally, until the corned beef is heated through and everything is well combined, about 5-7 minutes. The flavors should meld together beautifully.

Creating Wells and Adding the Eggs

Almost there! Now we’re going to create little nests for our eggs right in the hash. This is what makes it a skillet dish!

1. Create Wells: Using a spoon, create four wells in the hash, spacing them evenly around the skillet.
2. Crack the Eggs: Carefully crack one egg into each well. Try not to break the yolks!
3. Cook the Eggs: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny, about 5-7 minutes. The cooking time will depend on how runny you like your yolks. If you prefer your yolks cooked through, cook for a few minutes longer.

Serving and Garnishing

The final touch! A little garnish and some hot sauce (if you’re feeling spicy) will take this dish to the next level.

1. Garnish with Parsley: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the hash. The parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the corned beef hash skillet immediately.
3. Add Hot Sauce (Optional): If you like a little heat, drizzle some hot sauce over the eggs and hash. I recommend a vinegar-based hot sauce for a nice tang.

Tips and Variations:

• Potato Choice: While I love Yukon Gold potatoes, you can also use Russet potatoes or red potatoes. Russets will give you a crispier hash, while red potatoes will be slightly waxier.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can omit it altogether.
• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the hash, such as mushrooms, carrots, or celery. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Cheese: For an extra cheesy hash, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the eggs during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Hollandaise Sauce: For a truly decadent treat, top the hash with a dollop of hollandaise sauce.
• Leftovers: Corned beef hash is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this corned beef hash skillet as much as I do! It’s a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Corned Beef Hash Skillet isn’t just another breakfast recipe; it’s a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone who appreciates simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. The combination of crispy potatoes, savory corned beef, and perfectly cooked eggs creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. It’s comfort food at its finest, and I’m confident it will become a regular in your rotation.

But what makes this skillet truly exceptional is its versatility. While I’ve presented my favorite version, the possibilities are endless! For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the skillet while the potatoes are cooking. If you’re a fan of vegetables, feel free to incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients. You could even throw in some leftover roasted vegetables for a quick and easy way to use them up.

Serving suggestions are just as varied. I personally love enjoying this Corned Beef Hash Skillet straight from the pan, topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh chives. However, it’s also fantastic served with a side of toast or English muffins for soaking up all those delicious juices. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of baked beans or a simple green salad. And don’t forget the condiments! Ketchup, mustard, or even a bit of horseradish sauce can add an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the corned beef.

For a brunch gathering, consider making individual skillets for each guest. This adds a touch of elegance and allows everyone to customize their hash to their liking. You could even set up a toppings bar with various cheeses, vegetables, and sauces for a truly interactive and memorable experience.

I’ve found that this recipe is also a fantastic way to use up leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or any other occasion. It’s a much more exciting and flavorful alternative to simply reheating the meat, and it’s a great way to stretch your leftovers into a completely new and satisfying meal.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. It’s a simple, straightforward dish that’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd. The beauty of this Corned Beef Hash Skillet lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your skillet, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Please share your photos, comments, and variations in the comments section below. Let me know what you thought of the recipe, what changes you made, and how you served it. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating delicious and inspiring recipes for you to enjoy. Happy cooking!

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