Cajun Spiced Potato Hash with Sausage & Eggs: The Ultimate Hearty Breakfast Skillet
There’s nothing quite like a hearty, flavorful breakfast to kickstart your day, and this **Cajun Spiced Potato Hash with Sausage and Eggs** truly delivers. Imagine perfectly crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and vibrant bell peppers, all infused with a bold Cajun spice blend, topped with your favorite style of eggs. It’s a dish that brings the soul-warming flavors of Louisiana straight to your breakfast table, making it an absolute favorite in my household.
While my local diner’s version often features **Louisiana style Hot Links** – a personal breakfast obsession – this recipe is incredibly versatile. I often use lean, flavorful Andouille chicken sausage, but any spicy or robust breakfast sausage would be an excellent choice. Don’t limit yourself; even a rich, crumbly Mexican Chorizo can transform this hash into a new culinary adventure. (If you’re a Chorizo fan, be sure to check out my **Baked Mexican Chorizo and Eggs** or these **Easy Baked Chorizo Egg Bites** for more inspiration!) The secret to that irresistible kick lies in a generous amount of readily available Cajun seasoning, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a satisfying dinner, its vibrant flavors and comforting textures make it a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Let’s dive into how you can create this amazing skillet dish right in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents
- What Exactly is Potato Hash?
- Crafting Your Cajun Spiced Potato Hash: The Essential Ingredients
- Let’s Get Cooking: Crafting Your Spicy Potato and Sausage Skillet Breakfast
- Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Potato Hash
What Exactly is Potato Hash? Unpacking a Culinary Classic
The term “hash” might conjure images of the quintessential New England Corned Beef Hash for many in the United States, a beloved classic synonymous with hearty breakfasts. But the concept of hash is far older and broader than just one dish. The word itself is derived from the French verb “hacher,” which literally means “to chop” or “to mince.” This etymology perfectly encapsulates the dish’s fundamental nature: a collection of finely chopped or diced ingredients, typically cooked together in a skillet until wonderfully browned and integrated.
At its core, traditional hash relies on a simple yet satisfying trio of ingredients: **potatoes**, a **protein** (usually meat), and **aromatic vegetables** like onions. Historically, hash was a resourceful way to repurpose leftovers from previous meals, transforming day-old roasts, vegetables, and potatoes into a fresh and appealing dish. This resourceful spirit is what has allowed hash to evolve into countless regional and personal variations around the world, each reflecting local ingredients and culinary traditions.
From the hearty corned beef hashes of the Northeast to the spicy potato and sausage hashes of the South, the versatility of this dish is truly remarkable. Our Cajun Spiced Potato Hash embraces this tradition, using the robust flavors of Louisiana to elevate the classic combination of potatoes, sausage, and peppers. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with the right spices and cooking techniques, can create an extraordinary meal.
Crafting Your Cajun Spiced Potato Hash: The Essential Ingredients
One of the best things about this Cajun Spiced Potato Hash is its simplicity, requiring just a handful of primary ingredients amplified by a potent spice blend. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s incredible flavor and texture.
The Core Ingredients:
- Potatoes: You’ll need 3-4 small to medium Russet potatoes. Russets are ideal for hash because their high starch content leads to a wonderfully crispy exterior when cooked, while remaining fluffy inside. Make sure to peel and cube them uniformly for even cooking.
- Bell Peppers: Half a red bell pepper and half a green bell pepper, chopped. These add a vibrant color, a hint of sweetness, and a fresh crunch that complements the savory sausage and earthy potatoes.
- Red Onion: Half a small red onion, finely chopped. Onions are the aromatic backbone of any good hash, providing a pungent sweetness that deepens in flavor as it caramelizes in the skillet.
- Sausage: 12 oz of Andouille sausage (chicken or pork) or Louisiana-style Hot Links, sliced. This is where a significant part of the “Cajun” flavor comes from. Andouille offers a smoky, spicy kick, while Hot Links bring a distinct, fiery Louisiana flair. Any spicy or breakfast sausage can be substituted if you prefer, allowing for great flexibility.
- Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (or canola/vegetable oil). This fat is essential for browning the sausage and crisping the potatoes, developing that coveted deep flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
- Cajun Seasoning: The star of the show! A good amount of your favorite Cajun spice blend is key to achieving that authentic, zesty flavor.
Understanding Your Cajun Spice Blend
The quality and complexity of your Cajun spice blend can truly elevate this hash. For this particular recipe, I’ve had fantastic results using a blend from Penzey’s spices, which is known for its rich and multifaceted flavor profile. A comprehensive Cajun seasoning often includes a dynamic mix of:
- Paprika (for color and mild sweetness)
- Salt (a fundamental flavor enhancer)
- Celery (adds a subtle, fresh earthiness)
- Sugar (balances heat and aids in caramelization)
- Garlic & Onion (for pungent, savory depth)
- Black & Red Pepper (for warmth and heat)
- Oregano, Basil, Marjoram, Rosemary, Thyme, Bay Leaf (for aromatic, herbaceous notes)
- Caraway, Dill, Turmeric, Cumin, Mace, Cardamom (for unique, complex undertones)
This intricate combination creates a flavor that is smoky, earthy, savory, and spicy – the hallmark of true Cajun cuisine. If your preferred store-bought blend seems to lack a bit of punch, don’t hesitate to augment it with extra garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat, or additional herbs to suit your palate. Adjusting the seasoning to your taste is crucial for perfecting this dish.
Let’s Get Cooking: Crafting Your Spicy Potato and Sausage Skillet Breakfast
With our ingredients prepped and ready, we’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying this incredibly delicious and satisfying breakfast skillet. The key to a fantastic hash lies in achieving that perfect balance of crispy textures and deeply developed flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
- Heat the Skillet: Begin by placing a large, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to get nice and hot before adding any ingredients. A properly heated pan is essential for achieving a good sear on the sausage and crispy potatoes.
- Cook the Sausage: Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil (or canola oil) to the hot skillet, unless you are using a fatty pork sausage, in which case you might be able to omit the oil entirely, relying on the rendered fat from the sausage itself. Add your sliced sausage to the pan. Since most sausages (like Andouille or Hot Links) are precooked, your goal here isn’t to cook them through, but rather to develop a beautiful char and heat them thoroughly. This char adds a crucial layer of smoky, savory flavor and a delightful texture. Sauté for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned.
- Set Sausage Aside: Once the sausage is charred and heated, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This step is important to prevent the sausage from overcooking and becoming tough while the potatoes do their thing.
- Cook the Potatoes and Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pan (if needed, depending on how much fat rendered from the sausage). Let it heat until it glistens but isn’t smoking. Then, add your cubed potatoes, chopped bell peppers, and diced red onion. Season this mixture generously with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and a grind of fresh black pepper.
- Sauté for Crispy Perfection: Sauté the potato mixture thoroughly. The trick to crispy hash is patience and proper technique. Give the mixture a good turn every few minutes, allowing the potatoes to develop a golden-brown crust and a slight char on all sides. Avoid stirring too frequently, as this prevents browning. Continue to cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender on the inside and beautifully crisp on the outside. You’ll notice the peppers softening and the onions caramelizing, adding sweetness to the savory base.
- Adjust Seasoning: Towards the end of the potato cooking time, taste a piece of potato. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or Cajun spice to achieve your desired flavor intensity. Remember, the Cajun spice is packed with flavor, so don’t be shy!
- Reintroduce Sausage: Finally, add the cooked sausage back into the pan with the potato and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together gently, allowing the sausage to heat through completely and meld its flavors with the hash.
Serving Your Delicious Hash
Serve this **Cajun Spiced Potato Hash with Sausage** piping hot, traditionally crowned with eggs prepared exactly to your liking. Whether you prefer a perfectly fried egg with a runny yolk, a fluffy scramble, or a delicate poached egg, it will complement the robust flavors of the hash beautifully. For an extra layer of indulgence, consider sprinkling some shredded sharp cheddar cheese or spicy pepper jack cheese over the hash while it’s still warm, allowing it to melt into a gooey topping. A garnish of fresh chopped green onions or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can also add a fresh, zesty finish.
This dish is incredibly satisfying on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast or brunch spread. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those of your family and friends with this unforgettable skillet meal!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Potato Hash
Yes, you absolutely can use frozen diced potatoes or hash browns as a convenient shortcut! If you opt for frozen potatoes, I recommend adding them to the hot skillet first and cooking for about 5-7 minutes on their own to help remove some moisture and start the browning process. Then, add your peppers and onions and proceed with the rest of the recipe as instructed. Keep in mind that frozen potatoes may take a few minutes longer to achieve that desired golden-brown crispness compared to fresh ones.
Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable for vegan or vegetarian diets. Simply substitute the traditional sausages with your preferred plant-based meat alternative, such as vegan chorizo or spicy plant-based sausage. The cooking method should remain largely the same. To make it a fully plant-based skillet, you can top it with delicious alternatives like Just Eggs or a tofu scramble instead of conventional eggs. You’ll still get all the amazing Cajun flavor!
Transforming this hash with a Southwestern flair is simple and delicious! Instead of using red and green bell peppers, replace them with roasted Hatch chiles (canned or fresh, peeled and diced) and a white onion. These ingredients will infuse the dish with a distinct smoky and slightly spicy Southwestern character. Follow the rest of the recipe instructions for cooking the potatoes and sausage, and enjoy a wonderfully unique variation!
Yes, you can certainly do some prep work in advance! You can chop all your vegetables (potatoes, bell peppers, and onion) and slice the sausage a day or two before. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. If you want to partially cook it, you can sauté the potatoes until they are mostly tender but not fully crispy, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the potatoes in a hot skillet, add the sausage back in, and finish cooking until everything is heated through and the potatoes are crispy. This makes weeknight cooking or brunch preparation much easier!
Leftover Cajun Spiced Potato Hash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, spread the hash in a single layer in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the potatoes to crisp up again. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy, stirring halfway. Microwaving is an option for heating, but it won’t yield the same crispy texture.
The beauty of hash is its versatility with eggs! Traditionally, a fried egg (sunny-side up or over easy/medium) with a runny yolk is often favored, as the yolk mixes beautifully with the hash. However, scrambled eggs, poached eggs, or even an omelet can be delightful additions. Feel free to prepare your eggs exactly how you love them – they’ll all be fantastic with this flavorful hash!
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All content and photographs ©Claudia’s Table and claudiastable.com
Cajun Spiced Potato Hash with Sausage
Ana | Claudia’s Table
November 17, 2021
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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skillet, non stick
Ingredients
- 3-4 whole potatoes, small-medium russet peeled and cubed
- 1/2 whole red bell pepper, seeded chopped
- 1/2 whole green bell pepper, seeded chopped
- 1/2 small red onion chopped
- 12 oz Andouille sausage, or Lousiana style Hot Links chicken or pork
- 1-2 tsp Cajun spice blend
- salt and pepper
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin or canola or vegetable oil
Instructions
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Over medium high heat, start with a hot, non stick skillet. Add 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil or canola if you are using chicken sausage, if you are using pork sausage, you can omit oil.
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Add sliced sausage to hot skillet.
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Since most sausage is precooked, you just need to give the sliced sausages a little char and allow to be heated through. About 5 minutes.
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Remove sausage from pan and set aside.
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Add 1 tbsp of oil and allow to heat. Add potatoes, peppers, onions, 1 tsp of Cajun seasoning, pinch of salt, and pepper.
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Sauté the potato mixture well. Give the potato mixture a stir every few minutes, you want a little char, but not to burn. About 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
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Taste for salt, and add more salt and Cajun spice if needed.
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Now add sausage back in to the pan with the potato mixture and allow to completely heat through.
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Serve this Cajun Spiced Potato Hash and Sausage hot, with eggs of your choice on top. You can add cheddar cheese or pepper jack as an option.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is calculated online and should be used as a guide.
All content and photographs ©Claudia’s Table and claudiastable.com
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