There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sizzle of sausage in a hot skillet—it’s the sound of a hearty breakfast coming together in minutes. This breakfast skillet with sausage has been my go-to lazy weekend meal for years, especially when I need something filling but don’t want to fuss over multiple pans. It’s got everything you crave—golden potatoes, melty cheese, runny eggs (or firm, if that’s your thing), and, of course, savory sausage that infuses every bite with flavor.
The best part? It’s endlessly flexible. Swap in whatever veggies you have, adjust the spice level, or even skip the meat for a veggie-packed version. One pan, minimal cleanup, and maximum satisfaction—that’s what breakfast should be.
Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Skillet with Sausage
This isn’t just another breakfast recipe—it’s your new secret weapon for mornings when you need something delicious fast. Here’s why it’ll become your favorite:
- One-pan wonder: Sausage, potatoes, eggs—all cooked in a single skillet (hello, easy cleanup!)
- Crazy customizable: Swap in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Prefer spicy? Add jalapeños or hot sauce!
- Brunch-worthy with zero effort: Looks impressive but takes just 30 minutes start to finish
- Leftover magic: Tastes even better reheated—perfect for meal prep
- Crowd-pleaser: My kids scarf it down, and my in-laws always ask for seconds
Trust me, once you try this skillet, you’ll wonder how you ever made breakfast without it.
Ingredients for Breakfast Skillet with Sausage
The magic of this skillet starts with simple ingredients—nothing fancy, just good, honest flavors that work together perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage – I use mild, but spicy would be delicious too!
- 2 cups (300g) diced potatoes – About ½-inch cubes (or use frozen to save time)
- ½ cup (75g) diced bell peppers – Any color works—I love the sweetness of red ones
- ½ cup (75g) diced onions – White or yellow, whatever’s in your pantry
- 4 large eggs – Farm-fresh if you can get them
- ½ cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese – Pack it lightly in the measuring cup
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil – Or use the sausage drippings for extra flavor
- Salt and pepper – To taste, but be generous!
See? Nothing complicated—just everything you need for the coziest breakfast ever. Feel free to raid your fridge and toss in whatever extras sound good!
How to Make Breakfast Skillet with Sausage
Okay, let’s get cooking! This breakfast skillet comes together in three simple steps—just follow along and you’ll have a piping hot meal in no time. I’ve made this so many times I could do it in my sleep (and honestly, some weekend mornings I practically do!).
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
First, grab your favorite large skillet—cast iron works great here—and heat it over medium heat. Add that olive oil, then toss in your sausage. Now comes the fun part: use a wooden spoon to break it up into little crumbles as it cooks. You want nice browned bits everywhere! Once it’s cooked through (about 5-7 minutes), scoop it out onto a plate, but leave those glorious drippings in the pan. Trust me, that’s where all the flavor magic happens!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Same pan, same heat—toss in your potatoes, peppers, and onions. Here’s my secret: don’t stir too much! Let them get a little crispy on one side before flipping. Cook until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork (about 8-10 minutes). If things start sticking, just add a tiny splash of water. When they’re perfect, mix the sausage back in—the smells at this point will have everyone running to the kitchen!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Cheese
Now for the pièce de résistance! Use the back of your spoon to make four little wells in the mixture. Crack an egg into each one—try not to break the yolks if you like them runny. Then cover the skillet with a lid (foil works in a pinch) and let the eggs cook to your liking—about 3-4 minutes for soft yolks. Take the lid off, sprinkle that cheese all over, and let it melt into gooey perfection. Grab forks—breakfast is served!
Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Skillet with Sausage
After making this skillet more times than I can count, I’ve picked up a few tricks that’ll take yours from good to unforgettable:
- Pre-cook those potatoes if you’re in a rush—leftover roasted potatoes or even frozen hash browns work like a charm!
- Cheese matters: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gruyère to mix things up (or go wild with a blend).
- Egg anxiety? If you’re worried about overcooking, pull the skillet off the heat a minute early—the residual heat will finish the job.
- Crispy potatoes hack: Spread everything in a single layer and resist stirring too much—that’s how you get those golden edges.
- Salt after eggs go in—sausage and cheese add plenty, so taste first!
Oh, and if your eggs stick? A little nonstick spray in the wells first saves the day. You’re welcome!
Ingredient Substitutions for Breakfast Skillet with Sausage
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge. Here are my go-to substitutions that still keep the skillet delicious:
- Protein swap: Use bacon, ham, or even chorizo instead of sausage—just adjust cook times (bacon needs crispier!)
- Veggie boost: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini with the potatoes—they’ll add freshness without overpowering
- Potato alternatives: Sweet potatoes give a fun twist, or try cauliflower rice for lower carb
- Cheese change-up: Pepper jack adds spice, while feta gives a briny kick
The beauty? This skillet forgives almost any swap—as long as you keep the eggs and crispy potatoes, you’re golden!
Serving Suggestions for Breakfast Skillet with Sausage
This skillet is basically a whole breakfast in one pan, but I love rounding it out with a few simple sides. A stack of buttery toast for scooping up runny yolks is my go-to, or sometimes I’ll add creamy avocado slices for freshness. For weekend brunch, pair it with mimosas—the orange juice cuts through the richness perfectly. And if you’re feeling fancy, a little dollop of sour cream or salsa on top takes it to the next level. Honestly though? It’s so satisfying, you might just eat it straight from the pan (no judgment here!).
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Good news—this skillet keeps like a dream! Just let it cool slightly, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave (stirring halfway) or pop it back in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. The eggs won’t be runny anymore, but the flavors get even better! If the potatoes seem dry, just sprinkle a teaspoon of water before reheating.
Nutritional Information for Breakfast Skillet with Sausage
Here’s the breakdown for one hearty serving (about ¼ of the skillet): roughly 420 calories, 25g protein, 20g carbs, and 28g fat. Keep in mind—these numbers will vary based on your exact ingredients (like using turkey sausage or extra cheese). Not diet food, but packed with protein to keep you full all morning!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this breakfast skillet vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap the sausage for plant-based crumbles or extra veggies like mushrooms. I’ve even used black beans—they add great texture. The eggs and cheese keep it plenty hearty.
How do I prevent soggy potatoes?
Two tricks: First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding them. Second, resist stirring too often—let them get a good crust! If using raw potatoes, dry them well after dicing.
Can I prep this ahead?
Totally! Cook the sausage and veggies the night before, then refrigerate. In the morning, just reheat the mix, add eggs, and you’re golden. Works great for meal prep too!
What if I don’t have a lid for my skillet?
No worries—use a baking sheet or aluminum foil. The key is trapping steam to cook the eggs evenly. Just check them a minute earlier since temps vary.
Alright, now it’s your turn! Grab that skillet and give this breakfast masterpiece a try—I promise it’s easier than it looks. When you do, snap a photo and tag me—I’d love to see your creation (especially if you added any fun twists!). Nothing makes me happier than hearing how this simple skillet became part of your family’s breakfast routine. Happy cooking, and may your mornings always be as delicious as this dish!
Print
Savory Breakfast Skillet with Sausage in Just 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty breakfast skillet with sausage, potatoes, eggs, and cheese for a filling morning meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage
- 2 cups (300g) diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup (75g) diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup (75g) diced onions
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
- Remove sausage and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.
- Add potatoes, bell peppers, and onions to the skillet. Cook until potatoes are tender.
- Return sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Make four wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each well.
- Cover and cook until eggs are set to your liking.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top and let it melt before serving.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked potatoes to save time.
- Swap sausage for bacon or ham if preferred.
- Add hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 245mg
Keywords: breakfast skillet, sausage and eggs, hearty breakfast
