Smoked Sausage Breakfast Hash with Sweet Peppers

Ever have one of those mornings where you open the fridge and just stare, hoping a delicious and satisfying meal will magically appear? Yeah, me too. That’s exactly how this Smoked Sausage Breakfast Hash with Sweet Peppers was born. It’s my go-to solution for turning a handful of simple ingredients into a breakfast that feels like a warm, hearty hug. It’s perfect for a bustling weekday or a lazy weekend brunch. Honestly, isn’t it wonderful when the easiest meals are also the most flavorful?

Why You’ll Love This

You’re going to love this because it’s a complete one-pan wonder. That means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your coffee. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a champion of easy weeknight dinners or a stress-free weekend brunch. The combination of savory smoked sausage, tender potatoes, and sweet, colorful peppers is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those healthy dinner recipes that doesn’t taste like it’s trying to be healthy—it’s just genuinely good, hearty food that will keep everyone at the table happy.

Equipements Needed

1 large skillet (a 12-inch cast-iron is my favorite for that perfect crispy sear)
1 sharp knife and cutting board
1 spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
1 measuring spoons

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and getting that beautiful browning.
1 lb smoked turkey sausage, sliced into rounds: Provides a hearty, smoky flavor without the pork.
1 large yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet, savory base note.
2 sweet bell peppers (any color), chopped: Brings color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch.
4 cups frozen diced potatoes (O’Brien style with onions and peppers is great!): The super convenient shortcut that makes this hash so quick.
2 cloves garlic, minced: For that essential punch of flavor.
1 tsp smoked paprika: Deepens the smoky, savory profile.
1/2 tsp dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthy note.
Salt and black pepper to taste: To season everything perfectly.
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish): For a fresh, bright finish.

Step By Step

Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked turkey sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, until beautifully browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, you’ll have all those delicious sausage drippings. Add the diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and get a little color.
Add the entire bag of frozen potatoes to the skillet. Spread them out in an even layer and let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. This is the secret to getting them crispy and golden brown on one side. Give everything a good stir, then let it cook for another 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for one more minute until the garlic is incredibly fragrant.
Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the entire hash is piping hot. Taste it and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately!

Pro Tips For Success

Don’t crowd the pan when browning the sausage and potatoes. Giving them space ensures a good sear instead of steam.
That initial period of not stirring the potatoes is key. It’s what gives you those deliciously crispy, browned bits we all love in a hash.
Feel free to get creative with your potato choice! Leftover baked potatoes or diced russets work great, though they’ll take a few minutes longer to cook.
For a little extra something, make a few small wells in the hash and crack eggs right into them. Cover the skillet for 4-5 minutes for perfectly runny-yolked eggs on top.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Twist: Swap the smoked sausage for a plant-based sausage alternative or a can of drained black beans for a protein punch.
Spice Lover: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers.
Potato Swap: Use diced sweet potatoes for a different flavor and a nutrient boost. Just note they may cook a tad faster.
Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love cheese? Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar or pepper jack over the top at the very end and cover for a minute to let it melt gloriously.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This hash is a full meal all on its own, but it plays well with others. For a bigger breakfast spread, serve it alongside some fluffy scrambled eggs or crispy bacon. A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce never hurt anybody. If you’re serving it for dinner, it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It’s one of those fantastically easy dinner dishes that always feels like a treat.

Storage & Reheating

Let any leftover hash cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 4 days. The best way to reheat it is in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. You can also microwave it, but the skillet will help bring back that desirable crispy texture. I don’t recommend freezing this one, as the potatoes can become a bit grainy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time for meal prep? Absolutely! This is a fantastic candidate for healthy dinner ideas you can prep on Sunday. Cook the hash completely, let it cool, and store it in containers. Reheat individual portions throughout the week for a speedy breakfast or easy dinner.
What’s the best sausage to use? I use smoked turkey sausage to keep things a bit lighter, but any fully-cooked smoked sausage like beef, chicken, or andouille will work wonderfully here. It’s a great way to create cheap dinners for a family using what you have.
My hash is sticking to the pan. What did I do wrong? Don’t you worry, it happens to the best of us. You might need just a touch more oil, or your heat could be a little too high. A well-seasoned cast-iron or a non-stick skillet is your best friend for recipes like this.