Craving a hearty breakfast? Try this easy homemade steak and potato hash, a quick weeknight dinner favorite made with tender steak and crispy potatoes, Save for later
Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash – Hearty, Savory & Satisfyingly Bold!
Introduction
Imagine starting your day with a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with flavors and textures that will keep you going until lunchtime. The Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash is exactly that – a hearty, savory, and satisfyingly bold breakfast option that combines the richness of steak with the comfort of potatoes, all in one skillet. This recipe is a masterclass in ease, flavor, and creativity, using everyday ingredients to create something truly special. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick breakfast solution or a weekend brunch enthusiast, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Why This Works
- Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between the savory flavor of steak, the earthiness of potatoes, and the slight crunch of onions and bell peppers, all of which are easily found in most grocery stores.
- Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation and flavor profile, the Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash is surprisingly easy to prepare. It requires minimal ingredients and can be cooked in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy mornings.
- Impressive results with minimal effort: The key to this recipe’s success lies in its layering of flavors and textures, which creates a dish that’s far more impressive than the sum of its parts. With just a few simple steps, you can achieve a breakfast hash that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Key Ingredients
The Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash relies on a few key ingredients to deliver its bold flavor and satisfying texture. These include:
– Steak: Preferably ribeye or sirloin, cut into small cubes for quick cooking. You can also use leftover steak if you have some on hand.
– Potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold work well, peeled and diced into small pieces for even cooking.
– Onions and Bell Peppers: These add a sweet and crunchy texture to the dish. Any color bell pepper works, and you can also use shallots or scallions as a substitute for onions.
– Olive Oil: For cooking the steak and vegetables. Avocado oil or any other oil with a high smoke point can be used as a substitute.
– Salt, Pepper, and Any Desired Spices: To taste, for adding depth to the dish. Consider paprika for a smoky flavor or garlic powder for an extra savory kick.
Instructions
- Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the steak into small cubes, peel and dice the potatoes, and slice the onions and bell peppers. This step is crucial for ensuring that all components of the dish cook evenly and quickly.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the steak cubes and cook until they’re browned on all sides and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary, then add the diced potatoes. Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes, or until they start to brown, stirring occasionally. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and continue cooking until the vegetables are tender and the potatoes are golden brown.
- Step 4: Add the cooked steak back into the skillet with the potatoes and vegetables. Stir everything together, adding any desired spices or seasonings to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Handy Tips
- For an extra crispy texture on the potatoes, try soaking the diced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking to remove excess starch. Then, pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the skillet.
- Don’t overcook the steak. It should be cooked to your desired level of doneness but still retain some juiciness. Use a thermometer to check for internal temperatures: 130°F – 135°F for medium-rare, 140°F – 145°F for medium, and 150°F – 155°F for medium-well.
- Experiment with different seasonings and spices to give the dish your own twist. Smoked paprika, chili flakes, or a sprinkle of grated cheese can add interesting dimensions to the flavor.
Heat Control
Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when cooking the steak and potatoes. Start with a medium-high heat to get a good sear on the steak, then adjust the heat to medium or medium-low to cook the potatoes and vegetables more gently. This prevents burning and ensures that all ingredients are cooked through without being overcooked.
Crunch Factor
Achieving the right crunch factor in the Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash is key to its appeal. The potatoes should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the onions and bell peppers add a satisfying crunch. To enhance the crunch, make sure to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the ingredients to steam instead of sear. Cooking in batches if necessary can help maintain the desired texture.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use a cast-iron skillet for this recipe if you have one. Cast iron retains heat well and can achieve a beautiful sear on the steak and a crispy exterior on the potatoes.
- Don’t stir the potatoes too much as they cook. Allow them to develop a nice crust on the bottom, which adds to the overall texture of the dish.
- Consider adding some diced bacon or pancetta to the skillet with the onions and bell peppers for an extra smoky flavor.
Storage Tips
- The Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Simply cool the dish to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- To reheat, place the desired amount in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though be cautious of the texture becoming mushy.
- While it’s possible to freeze the dish, the texture of the potatoes might become less appealing after thawing. If you choose to freeze, it’s best to do so before adding the steak, then cook the steak fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Gift Packaging Ideas
While the Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash is typically served hot and fresh, it can also be packaged in creative ways for gifting, especially if you’re making it for a brunch gathering or as part of a gift basket. Consider portioning the hash into small, decorative cast-iron skillets or ramekins, then wrapping each in a colorful towel or napkin and tying with a ribbon. You could also package the ingredients separately in a gift basket, along with a printed recipe card, for a DIY breakfast kit.
Flavor Variations
- 🌟 Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cumin for a southwestern twist, or some dried thyme for a more rustic, herby flavor.
- 🌟 Creative toppings: Add some fried eggs on top for a breakfast skillet, or sprinkle with shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
- 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter hash, or use different types of peppers for varying levels of heat and flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Texture problems: If your potatoes are too mushy, it might be because they were overcooked or not drained properly after soaking. If they’re too hard, they might not have cooked long enough.
- Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have steak, you can substitute with sausage, bacon, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the color and texture of your ingredients. Steak should be browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness, potatoes should be golden and tender, and vegetables should be softened but still crisp.
FAQs
- Can I freeze it? Yes, but it’s best to freeze the hash without the steak, then cook the steak fresh when serving.
- Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through.
Conclusion
The Steak and Potato Breakfast Hash is a versatile and delicious meal option that’s perfect for any time of day. With its hearty combination of steak, potatoes, and vegetables, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and ingredients to make the recipe your own, and consider sharing it with friends and family as a unique and thoughtful gift. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a great way to start your day off right.