Ground Beef Breakfast Hash

Name: Ground Beef Breakfast Hash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 large potatoes, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Chopped fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Ground Beef Breakfast Hash is one of my favorites. It perfectly combines the rich flavor of seasoned ground beef with crispy potatoes and sautéed vegetables. I usually whip this up on weekends when I have a little more time to enjoy my breakfast. It’s a delicious way to fuel my day and works wonders for weekend brunches or even an energizing weekday meal. Trust me, you won't want to skip this comfort food!

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:25:36.661Z

When I first tried making Ground Beef Breakfast Hash, I knew I wanted to create something filling and satisfying. The combination of ground beef with crispy potatoes and sautéed peppers really gives this dish a comforting vibe. I remember the first time I added a sprinkle of paprika—what a game changer! It elevated the entire dish and made it so flavorful.

Over the years, I've experimented with various veggies and seasonings, and each time, I find ways to make it even better. Adding some fresh herbs right before serving gives it a burst of brightness that balances the richness of the beef. This recipe has truly become a staple in my breakfast repertoire!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory flavors that wake up your taste buds
Hearty and filling, perfect for starting your day right
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and spices

Cooking Techniques That Make a Difference

When preparing the Ground Beef Breakfast Hash, the way you cook each ingredient is crucial for achieving that perfect harmony of flavors. Starting with the potatoes, it's essential to dice them evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Aim for medium-sized cubes—about half an inch—so they crisp up nicely while remaining tender inside. A cast-iron skillet is ideal for this dish, as it retains heat well and promotes even browning, enhancing the potatoes' texture.

Sautéing the onions and bell peppers first softens them and infuses their flavors into the hash. Keep an eye on the heat level; medium to medium-high is best to achieve that delicate balance of caramelization without burning. When you add the garlic, reduce the heat slightly to prevent it from being overcooked, which can turn it bitter. The goal is to have them soften until they're just translucent, creating an aromatic base for the beef to join in.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef, although they may require slightly less cooking time. For a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh, seasoned with the same spices to maintain flavor integrity. Just be sure to sauté tofu until golden for appealing texture.

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables in your hash as well. Broccoli, zucchini, or even spinach can make delightful additions. If using firmer vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, precook them slightly before adding them to ensure everything finishes cooking simultaneously. You can also incorporate different spices or herbs based on personal preference—try adding a pinch of cumin or even some chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Ingredients

For the Hash

1 pound ground beef
2 large potatoes, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Sauté the Aromatics

Add the remaining olive oil, then throw in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften, then add the minced garlic for the last minute.

Add the Beef

Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef to the other side. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Mix everything together in the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Once cooked through, garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

Enjoy your Meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this breakfast hash by adding other vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even top it with a fried egg for extra protein.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The Ground Beef Breakfast Hash can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. You can prepare the entire dish, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a few tablespoons of broth or water and heat it on low in a skillet to keep it moist.

If you anticipate having leftovers, consider freezing individual portions. Allow the hash to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Serving Ideas for Any Occasion

While this hash shines as a breakfast staple, it’s versatile enough to enjoy at any meal. For a heartier dinner option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed veggies. You can also elevate it by topping with a fried or poached egg for added protein and richness; the runny yolk mixes beautifully with the flavors of the hash.

For a unique brunch twist, try adding a dollop of avocado or a sprinkle of cheese right before serving. Fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, can also brighten the dish and enhance the flavor profile. This Ground Beef Breakfast Hash is truly adaptable, ensuring it's both satisfying and interesting every time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground sausage or turkey if you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just cook everything in the skillet when you're ready.

→ What can I serve with this hash?

This hash is great on its own, but you can also serve it with toast or a side of fresh fruit for a complete meal.