Hearty & Healthy Sweet Potato Vegetable Breakfast Hash: Your New Favorite Skillet Meal
Kickstart your day with a burst of flavor and a rainbow of nutrients! This incredibly delicious and vibrant **Sweet Potato Vegetable Breakfast Hash** is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together in one satisfying skillet. Bursting with fiber-rich sweet potatoes and a medley of colorful vegetables, this hash is designed to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast rotation or a show-stopping centerpiece for any brunch buffet. We love serving ours with perfectly cooked eggs, a sprinkle of salty Feta cheese, a drizzle of creamy Chipotle Crema, and a flourish of fresh micro cilantro. For an extra kick, sometimes we even add a dollop of our homemade Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde!
Table of Contents
- Why This Sweet Potato Hash is a Must-Try
- Gathering Your Ingredients
- Ingredient Notes and Tips
- Delicious Variations to Customize Your Hash
- Step-by-Step Directions for a Perfect Skillet Hash
- How to Serve Your Versatile Breakfast Hash
- Expert Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Hash
- Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Frequently Asked Questions About Vegetable Hash
Why This Sweet Potato Hash is a Must-Try
This isn’t just any breakfast; it’s a wholesome experience. Our sweet potato vegetable hash is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet right from the start of your day. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted for vegan or vegetarian diets, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Beyond its health benefits, its vibrant colors and diverse textures make it incredibly appealing. From the sweet and savory notes of the caramelized sweet potatoes and onions to the slight crunch of bell peppers and the earthiness of mushrooms, every forkful is a delight. It’s incredibly satisfying, ensuring you stay full and energized throughout your morning.
- **Nutrient-Packed:** Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from a wide array of fresh vegetables.
- **Fiber-Rich:** Sweet potatoes and kale contribute significant dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
- **Versatile & Customizable:** Easily swap ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Add your favorite proteins or different spices.
- **Quick & Easy:** Once the chopping is done, this skillet meal comes together in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
- **Visually Appealing:** The vibrant colors make it an attractive dish for family breakfasts or a brunch gathering.
- **Great for Meal Prep:** Prepare a larger batch and enjoy healthy breakfasts throughout the week.
Gathering Your Ingredients
The beauty of this breakfast hash lies in its flexibility and the wonderful variety of flavors and textures it offers. We aim for a full spectrum of colors in our vegetable rainbow! While we sometimes use purple sweet potatoes and kale when they are in season for an even more dramatic presentation, the classic orange sweet potatoes and green kale work just as perfectly and are always delicious. The key to a successful hash is preparing your vegetables correctly to ensure even cooking and delightful texture.
The crucial trick for this recipe is to **chop all your vegetables evenly**. Aim for uniform, bite-sized cubes for most of the hardier vegetables like sweet potatoes, red onions, zucchini, and peppers. Mushrooms can be halved or quartered and then sliced. Kale should be chopped into smaller, manageable pieces with the tough ribs removed, and grape or cherry tomatoes should be simply halved. While the prep work might take a little extra time upfront, it’s absolutely worth it. Once your veggies are ready, this skillet breakfast cooks remarkably quickly, bringing you closer to a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredient Notes and Tips
- Sweet Potatoes: Whether you choose traditional orange, white, or even purple sweet potatoes, they all bring a wonderful sweetness and texture to the hash. They are also packed with Vitamin A and fiber. Ensure they are diced to about 1/2-inch cubes for quick and even cooking.
- Red Onion & Bell Pepper: These add a foundational sweetness and a pop of color and Vitamin C. Red onion mellows beautifully when sautéed.
- Zucchini & Yellow Squash: These summer squashes cook quickly and add moisture and a tender texture. Again, consistent dicing is key.
- Mushrooms: Baby bella (cremini) mushrooms are our favorite for their earthy flavor and firm texture. They absorb the seasonings wonderfully.
- Kale: A nutritional powerhouse! Remember to remove the tough central ribs before chopping the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Spinach or Swiss chard are also great alternatives.
- Grape/Cherry Tomatoes: Added towards the end, these burst with fresh, juicy flavor and a slight acidity that brightens the entire dish.
- Seasoning Mix: Our special blend of Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder is the secret to an incredibly flavorful hash. It adds warmth, depth, and a hint of spice without being overwhelming. Feel free to adjust to your personal preference.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides a healthy fat source and helps in caramelizing the vegetables beautifully.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors of the vegetables. Adjust to taste.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Hash
One of the best things about this sweet potato breakfast hash is its incredible versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste, what’s available, or even the season. Here are some ideas to inspire your next skillet creation:
- Potato Alternatives: While sweet potatoes are stellar, you can easily swap them for **russet potatoes** or **gold potatoes** for a more traditional hash. Just note that cooking times might vary slightly for different potato types. If using russet potatoes, consider par-boiling them briefly before dicing and sautéing to ensure they cook through evenly and achieve a crispy exterior.
- Leafy Green Swaps: If kale isn’t your favorite or isn’t available, **spinach**, **Swiss chard**, or even finely chopped **collard greens** can be used. Add them at the same stage as the kale and cook until just wilted.
- Mushroom Choices: Experiment with **white button mushrooms**, **cremini mushrooms**, or a gourmet blend of **wild mushrooms** for varying textures and flavors.
- Onion Options: For a milder flavor, use **white** or **yellow onions** instead of red. Finely chopped **scallions** (green onions) added at the end also provide a fresh, pungent kick.
- Seasonal Additions: For a delightful **Fall-inspired hash**, incorporate cooked **butternut squash** (dice and add with sweet potatoes) and finely shredded **Brussels sprouts** (add with the quicker-cooking veggies). During spring, add fresh asparagus tips or snap peas.
- Protein Power-Ups: Transform this hash into a more substantial meal by adding cooked proteins. Try diced **chorizo**, crumbled **sausage** (pork or chicken apple), crispy **bacon bits**, or diced **ham**. Add these cooked proteins towards the end of the cooking process, just to heat through, or sauté them first and set aside before cooking the vegetables.
- Vegan/Vegetarian Protein: For plant-based protein, add cooked **black beans**, **chickpeas**, or plant-based sausage alternatives (like Beyond Breakfast sausage) to the skillet towards the end of cooking.
- Other Vegetable Ideas:
- Swap red bell pepper for **green** or **yellow bell peppers**.
- Add peeled and cubed **eggplant** for a rich, tender element.
- Try **patty pan squash** instead of yellow squash or zucchini for a fun shape and similar taste.
- Broccoli florets or cauliflower florets (small pieces) can be added with the sweet potatoes.
- Spice It Up: For those who love heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can be added to the seasoning mix or as a topping.
Step-by-Step Directions for a Perfect Skillet Hash
Achieving a perfectly cooked, beautifully caramelized hash is simpler than you think. Follow these steps for a delicious and easy one-pan meal.
- **Prepare Your Skillet:** Use a sturdy cast iron skillet or a good quality non-stick skillet. These are ideal for ensuring even cooking and achieving that desirable crispy texture on your vegetables.
- **Heat the Oil:** Preheat your chosen skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan.
- **First Sauté:** Add the diced sweet potatoes, red onions, and red peppers to the hot skillet. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Sauté these heartier vegetables for about **7 minutes**, stirring occasionally. You want them to start softening and developing some color.
- **Second Sauté:** Add another tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the pan, along with the diced zucchini, yellow squash, and mushrooms. Continue to sauté for approximately **5 minutes more**. The goal is for these vegetables to become tender-crisp. If your skillet seems dry or vegetables are sticking, don’t hesitate to add a little more oil as needed.
- **Final Veggies & Seasoning:** Stir in the chopped kale, halved grape/cherry tomatoes, the full seasoning mix (Cajun, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder), and the remaining kosher salt and black pepper.
- **Wilt & Coat:** Stir gently but thoroughly until the kale is wilted, and all the vegetables are beautifully coated with the aromatic seasoning mix. This usually takes just 2-3 minutes.
- **Taste & Adjust:** Give your hash a quick taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately!
How to Serve Your Versatile Breakfast Hash
This sweet potato vegetable hash is a chameleon in the kitchen – it’s wonderfully flexible and adaptable to many different meals and preferences! Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this delicious dish:
- **Classic Breakfast Plate:** Our absolute favorite way to savor this hash is alongside perfectly cooked eggs (over easy, scrambled, or poached are all fantastic!), some savory chicken apple sausage, a generous sprinkle of crumbled Feta cheese, and a dollop of our zesty Chipotle Crema. A little fresh micro cilantro or chopped parsley adds a beautiful finish.
- **Breakfast Burritos & Tacos:** This hash makes an incredible filling for breakfast burritos or soft tacos. Simply spoon the hash into warm tortillas, then add your favorite protein like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or crumbled sausage. Top with avocado, salsa, or sour cream for a portable and satisfying meal.
- **As a Side Dish:** It’s not just for breakfast! This hash makes a delicious and healthy side dish for roasted chicken, grilled fish, or any simple weeknight dinner.
- **Grain Bowls:** Create a vibrant and hearty grain bowl by serving the hash over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. Add some extra protein like a fried egg or black beans, and a fresh green like arugula.
- **With Avocado:** A simple topping of sliced or mashed avocado adds healthy fats and a creamy texture that perfectly complements the hash.
- **Spice it Up:** Drizzle with your favorite hot sauce or a dash of sriracha for an extra kick.
- **Cheese Please:** Aside from Feta, try sprinkling with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mild goat cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This sweet potato vegetable hash is an excellent option for meal prepping! Make a larger batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious, healthy breakfasts or lunches ready to go for several days. It reheats beautifully, making your busy mornings a breeze.
Expert Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Hash
- **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** For crispy, caramelized vegetables, avoid overcrowding your skillet. If you’re making a large batch, cook the vegetables in two separate batches. This allows the veggies to sear rather than steam, leading to better texture and flavor.
- **High Heat, Then Medium:** Start with a slightly higher heat to get the initial caramelization on the sweet potatoes, then reduce to medium to ensure they cook through without burning.
- **Even Chopping is Key:** As mentioned, uniform sizing of your vegetables is crucial for even cooking. Smaller pieces cook faster and more consistently.
- **Layering Ingredients:** Add the harder, longer-cooking vegetables (like sweet potatoes, onions, peppers) first, giving them a head start before adding softer, quicker-cooking ones (like squash, mushrooms, kale, tomatoes).
- **Season in Stages:** Seasoning with salt and pepper at different stages helps to build layers of flavor and ensures every component is properly seasoned.
- **Taste as You Go:** Always taste your hash before serving and adjust seasonings. A little extra salt, pepper, or a pinch of garlic powder can make a big difference.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This sweet potato vegetable hash is fantastic for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you have a few options:
- **Skillet Reheat:** For the best results and to regain some crispiness, reheat the hash in a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a tiny bit of olive oil until warmed through and slightly re-crisped.
- **Microwave:** For a quick reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot. The texture won’t be as crispy as skillet reheating, but it will still be delicious.
- **Oven:** Spread the hash on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. This method also helps to maintain some of the crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegetable Hash
For a balanced and flavorful hash, we recommend a mix of leafy greens (like kale or spinach), starchy vegetables (sweet potatoes or other potatoes), and a variety of colorful non-starchy vegetables (bell peppers, onions, zucchini, mushrooms, tomatoes). This blend provides diverse textures, flavors, and a comprehensive nutrient profile. The key is to ensure they are all chopped to a similar size for even cooking.
There are many excellent ways to boost the protein content! You can serve the hash topped with fried, poached, or scrambled **eggs**. For meat-eaters, consider stirring in cooked and crumbled **bacon**, diced **ham**, spicy **chorizo**, or savory **breakfast sausage**. For a vegetarian or vegan protein boost, add cooked **black beans**, **chickpeas**, or plant-based sausage alternatives (like Beyond Breakfast sausage) to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
Absolutely! Baking this hash on a sheet pan is a great hands-off method. We recommend par-cooking the sweet potatoes slightly first (either by boiling for 5 minutes or microwaving for a few minutes) to prevent them from drying out in the oven and to ensure they become tender at the same rate as the other vegetables. To bake: Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. In a large bowl, toss all the veggies (including the par-cooked sweet potatoes) with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, the seasoning mix, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake at **400°F (200°C)** for about **20-30 minutes**, tossing halfway through, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if you omit any dairy toppings (like Feta cheese or Chipotle Crema made with dairy). All the base ingredients are plant-based. Simply serve with avocado, salsa, or vegan sour cream, and ensure any added protein is also vegan (e.g., black beans, chickpeas, or plant-based sausage).
To achieve crispier sweet potatoes, ensure your skillet is hot and not overcrowded. Use enough oil (2-3 tablespoons initially is a good start). When you first add the sweet potatoes, let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a crust before stirring. Additionally, cutting them into slightly smaller, uniform pieces helps. If you’re really chasing maximum crispiness, consider a quick par-boil (3-5 minutes) or steaming before sautéing them in the skillet until golden brown.
We truly hope you enjoy this nutritious, delicious, and incredibly versatile **Sweet Potato Vegetable Breakfast Hash**! It’s a recipe that brings joy and health to any table. If you’re looking for more comforting and easy breakfast ideas, be sure to check out some of our other fan favorites:
- Cajun Spiced Potato Hash with Sausage
- Easy Baked Chorizo Egg Bites
- Weekend Breakfast Casserole
- Pasta with Grilled Vegetables, Feta, and Lemon
- Grilled Asian Marinated Flank Steak
If you tried this recipe, we’d absolutely love to hear from you! Please help other readers by commenting below and sharing some stars. We 🫶🏼 appreciate your feedback!
All content and photographs ©Claudia’s Table and claudiastable.com
Sweet Potato Vegetable Breakfast Hash
Ana | Claudia’s Table
March 25, 2025
Pin Recipe
Equipment
-
1 cast iron skillet or non-stick skillet
Ingredients
Breakfast Hash Seasoning Mix
- 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika ground
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Vegetable Hash
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups sweet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup diced red pepper
- 1 cup diced zucchini squash
- 1 cup diced yellow squash
- 1 cup quartered and sliced mushrooms (I recommend baby bella mushrooms)
- 1 cup chopped kale (leaves only, ribs removed)
- 1 cup halved grape/cherry tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper ground
Instructions
-
Use a cast iron or non-stick skillet; it’s ideal for this vegetable breakfast hash.
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Preheat the skillet over medium heat, and then add one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
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Add sweet potatoes, red onions, and red peppers. Add 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Sauté for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add another tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, zucchini, yellow squash, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Add more oil if needed.
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Add kale, tomatoes, the seasoning mix, and remaining kosher salt and pepper.
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Stir gently until kale is wilted and the mixture is coated with the seasoning mix, about 2-3 minutes.
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Taste and adjust salt if needed before serving.
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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