Sweet Potato Bacon Hash – A Hearty and Flavorful Breakfast Recipe
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch dish that’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, Sweet Potato Bacon Hash is the perfect choice. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—crispy, tender, and utterly satisfying. The combination of golden-brown sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, and savory seasonings makes it an irresistible treat that’s sure to keep you full and energized.
What makes this hash so special? For starters, sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and hearty, and they pair perfectly with the salty crunch of bacon. Add in some fresh herbs, garlic, and a dash of seasoning, and you’ve got a deliciously balanced dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your tastes—add extra veggies, spices, or even a fried egg on top for a complete breakfast.
In this post, I’ll walk you through every step of making this easy and flavorful hash, share some tips and variations, and show you how to make it your own. Whether you’re preparing it for a lazy Sunday brunch or a busy weekday breakfast, you’ll love how simple and satisfying this dish is.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
The best part about this Sweet Potato Bacon Hash is that it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Here’s a breakdown of each ingredient and some tips for making the most of them.
Main Ingredients:
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish. They’re rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. You’ll want to peel and dice them into small cubes so they cook evenly. If you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor, you can keep the skins on for added texture and nutrients.
- Bacon: Bacon adds a crispy, savory element to the hash. Use your favorite bacon (regular, thick-cut, or turkey bacon) and cook it until crispy for the best results. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon works well, though the flavor will be less intense than pork bacon.
- Onion: Onions provide a nice base flavor and a bit of sweetness when caramelized. Yellow or white onions work best, but you can also use red onions if you prefer a milder taste.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic bring out the savory depth of flavor in the hash. Garlic complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and enhances the richness of the bacon.
- Olive Oil: You’ll need some olive oil for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the sweet potatoes. Olive oil is a great choice for cooking because of its mild flavor and healthy fats. You can substitute it with butter if you prefer a richer flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme can be sprinkled over the finished hash for added flavor and a pop of color. These herbs bring brightness to the dish and complement the sweetness of the potatoes and the saltiness of the bacon.
Substitutions:
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace it with roasted chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh for protein. You can also use a plant-based bacon alternative if you want the smoky flavor.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you want to add cheese, go for a dairy-free option like vegan cheddar or mozzarella.
- Spices: If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick. You can also season with cumin for an earthy flavor or some chili powder for a smoky taste.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Sweet Potato Bacon Hash is simple and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you from start to finish:
- Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. When it’s cool enough to handle, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside. Keep a little bit of the bacon grease in the skillet for flavor. - Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil if needed and heat it over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. - Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like (such as paprika, cumin, or thyme). Cook the sweet potatoes, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes until they become tender and start to brown slightly. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to help soften the potatoes and prevent sticking. - Combine the Bacon and Sweet Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through and lightly crispy, add the crumbled bacon back into the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the bacon to warm through and coat the sweet potatoes with its flavor. - Add Fresh Herbs and Serve
Stir in some fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the hash warm, either on its own or with a side of eggs, avocado, or toast for a more filling meal.
4. Tips and Variations
Here are some expert tips and variations for the best Sweet Potato Bacon Hash:
- For Extra Crispiness: If you like your sweet potatoes extra crispy, spread them in a single layer in the skillet and let them cook without stirring for a few minutes. This will create a golden, crispy exterior on the potatoes.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the hash for added flavor and nutrients. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a more well-rounded dish.
- Top with Eggs: For a more hearty meal, top the hash with a fried egg, poached egg, or scrambled eggs. The runny yolk adds richness and flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy potatoes.
- Make It Spicy: Add some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that contrasts with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re serving it with bread, be sure to use gluten-free bread for a fully gluten-free meal.
5. Serving Suggestions
Sweet Potato Bacon Hash is a great standalone dish, but you can pair it with a variety of sides and accompaniments to make it even more filling:
- Eggs: Serve the hash with eggs cooked to your liking—scrambled, poached, or fried. The rich egg yolk adds a creamy contrast to the crispy hash.
- Avocado: Add slices of creamy avocado on top for a fresh, buttery element that balances out the richness of the bacon and potatoes.
- Toast or Tortillas: Pair with toasted bread or warm tortillas for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
- Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, a tangy vinaigrette, and a few nuts or seeds will add a refreshing crunch to the dish.
- Hot Sauce or Salsa: If you like a bit of heat, drizzle some hot sauce over the top or serve with a side of fresh salsa.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your Sweet Potato Bacon Hash:
- Fridge: Store leftover hash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the hash for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to eat.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
7. Recipe Notes
- Make Ahead: This hash is great for meal prep! You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy breakfasts throughout the week.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add more seasoning or hot sauce to suit your taste. The beauty of this dish is in how customizable it is.
- Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd or want extra servings, feel free to double the recipe and use a larger skillet.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbs | 20g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Calcium | 40mg |
| Iron | 1.5mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté the onions and garlic in the bacon fat.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook until tender and golden.
- Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes:
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition:
Calories: 250 | Fat: 15g | Protein: 12g | Carbs: 20g
🏷️ Diet Tags
- Gluten-Free
- Dairy-Free
🌿 Health Benefits
- High in fiber and vitamins from sweet potatoes
- Rich in protein from bacon
FAQs
1. Can I add other vegetables to this hash?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions to the hash.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, turkey bacon or chicken sausage would work well as a leaner alternative to regular bacon.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this hash is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
10. Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Bacon Hash is the perfect hearty and satisfying meal for breakfast, brunch, or any time you need a delicious, flavorful dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a quick meal for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Enjoy every bite!