Ham Breakfast Skillet

There's something magical about a breakfast that brings everyone to the table with anticipation. This Funeral Potatoes and Ham Breakfast Skillet takes the beloved comfort of classic funeral potatoes and transforms it into a one-pan wonder that's perfect for lazy weekend mornings or feeding a hungry crowd. Crispy hash browns meet savory diced ham in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce, all topped with a golden, buttery cornflake crust that adds an irresistible crunch. It's hearty, satisfying, and delivers that perfect balance of textures and flavors that makes breakfast the most anticipated meal of the day.

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The beauty of this breakfast skillet lies in its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether you're hosting a holiday brunch, preparing a cozy family breakfast, or looking for a hearty dish to bring comfort on a chilly morning, this recipe delivers every time. The creamy cheese sauce envelops tender hash browns and savory ham, while the sautéed onions and bell peppers add subtle sweetness and color. Baked to bubbly perfection with that iconic golden crust on top, every spoonful is a celebration of classic American comfort food.

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cornflakes, crushed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large oven-proof skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Add onion and red bell pepper; sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Ham

Stir in the hash browns and diced ham. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Step 4: Prepare Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.

Step 5: Combine

Add the creamy mixture to the skillet, stirring until evenly combined with the potato and ham mixture.

Step 6: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the skillet.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chives if desired. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, make sure your hash browns are fully thawed before starting – this helps them integrate smoothly with the creamy sauce and ensures even cooking. When crushing the cornflakes, place them in a sealed plastic bag and gently roll with a rolling pin to achieve uniform pieces that will toast evenly. Don't skip the resting time after baking; those five minutes allow the sauce to thicken slightly and make serving much easier. If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, you can assemble everything up to the point of adding the cornflake topping, refrigerate overnight, then add the topping and bake when ready to serve.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Substitute smoked turkey or bacon for ham if preferred, or try using leftover rotisserie chicken for a different protein option. For a vegetarian version, use cream of mushroom soup and omit the ham entirely, perhaps adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini instead. Try adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or swap the cheddar for a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack and pepper jack for more complex flavor. You can also use fresh diced potatoes instead of frozen hash browns if you prefer – just parboil them first until tender before proceeding with the recipe.

Serviervorschläge

This hearty breakfast skillet is excellent served with a side of fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete brunch spread, pair it with buttered toast, fresh biscuits, or flaky croissants. A glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice or a hot cup of coffee makes the perfect beverage accompaniment. If serving for a larger gathering, consider offering hot sauce or salsa on the side for those who enjoy extra heat. The leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave, making this a practical choice for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.

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This Funeral Potatoes and Ham Breakfast Skillet is more than just a recipe – it's a celebration of comfort food at its finest. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor payoff, it's the kind of dish that turns ordinary mornings into memorable occasions. Whether you're feeding family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to something special, this one-pan wonder delivers warmth, satisfaction, and that irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a perfectly crunchy topping. Gather around the table, serve up generous portions, and watch as this humble skillet becomes a new breakfast favorite in your home.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I substitute the ham with another protein?

Yes, smoked turkey or bacon can be used in place of ham to suit your preference.

→ What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup for a vegetarian option?

Cream of mushroom soup works well as a vegetarian alternative, and omitting the ham completes the transition.

→ How can I add a spicy element to this dish?

Incorporate diced jalapeños into the sautéed vegetables for a gentle heat boost.

→ Is it important to thaw the frozen hash browns before cooking?

Thawing ensures even cooking and better texture throughout the skillet.

→ What is the purpose of the cornflake topping?

The crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter create a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.