When the weekend rolls around, I find myself craving something hearty and comforting, a meal that can wrap you in warmth and flavor. One chilly Saturday morning, I decided to elevate my traditional breakfast routine, and that’s when I whipped up these irresistible Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks. Picture this: perfectly crispy potato discs layered with fluffy scrambled eggs, a generous sprinkle of melting cheddar cheese, and topped off with rich, savory sausage gravy.
Not only is this dish a feast for the eyes, but it also brings a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will leave everyone at the table smiling. Whether it’s a lazy brunch or a special gathering with friends, these stacks are sure to impress without keeping you tied to the stove for hours. In just under an hour, you can create a breakfast experience that rivals any diner, but with the comforts of home. So let’s dive into this delicious recipe that combines the best of breakfast in a beautiful, decadent stack!
Why love Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks?
Comforting, these stacks are like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy weekends with family. Flavor-packed, the rich sausage gravy complements the crispy hash browns and cheesy eggs, creating a winning combination. Quick and Easy: In under an hour, you can whip up this feast. Crowd-pleasing and visually stunning, it’s a dish that brings everyone together. If you’re looking for more delicious ways to start your day, consider checking out amazing breakfast ideas!
Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks Ingredients
For the Gravy
- Butter – adds a rich flavor to the dish as the base for your savory gravy.
- Sweet Italian sausage links – provides a deliciously seasoned protein that enhances the taste.
- All-purpose flour – helps thicken your gravy to a creamy consistency.
- Dry mustard – introduces a subtle tang that elevates the flavor profile.
- Kosher salt – enhances the overall taste and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Whole milk – gives your gravy a creamy texture that ties everything together.
For the Hash Brown Stacks
- Simply Potatoes® Shredded Hash Browns – the star ingredient that forms crispy, golden bases for your stacks.
- Whole eggs – provide protein and richness; they can be scrambled to your preference.
- Cheddar cheese – melts beautifully over the stacks, adding a gooey, cheesy layer that everyone will love.
Take a moment to gather these ingredients, and you’ll soon be on your way to creating unforgettable Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks that will brighten any morning!
How to Make Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks
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Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook the crumbled sweet Italian sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This savory base adds richness and depth to your gravy.
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Stir in the flour and dry mustard. Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken into a creamy gravy, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
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Shape the Simply Potatoes® Shredded Hash Browns into discs using a cookie cutter. Heat a Panini press or frying pan over medium-high heat and cook the discs until they are crispy and golden brown, for about 4-5 minutes per side.
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Scramble the whole eggs in a non-stick skillet with a splash of milk, cooking until fluffy and cooked to your preference. This adds a lovely texture and richness to your stacks.
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Assemble your delicious stacks by layering the crispy hash brown discs with scrambled eggs and a generous portion of cheddar cheese. Top with the warm, hearty sausage gravy for that final touch of comfort and flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chives for an added pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy mornings! You can prepare the sausage gravy and hash brown discs up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply cook the sausage and prepare the gravy; refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, shape and cook the hash brown discs, allowing them to cool completely before stacking them with parchment paper between layers to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the gravy on the stove and warm the hash browns in the oven for a few minutes until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, time-saving breakfasts that are just as comforting and satisfying!
What to Serve with Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks?
Make your breakfast feast unforgettable by pairing these delightful stacks with complementary sides and drinks.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stacks. The natural sweetness brightens the whole meal.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty, smoky flavors of crispy bacon elevate the breakfast experience, offering a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with creamy textures.
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Warm Maple Syrup: A drizzle of warm maple syrup over the stacks introduces a sweet note that harmonizes with the savory sausage gravy. It adds a gourmet twist!
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Zesty Breakfast Burritos: Mini breakfast burritos filled with avocado, cheese, and salsa create a fun, handheld option that’s bursting with flavor and complements the stacks’ heartiness.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted sourdough brings creaminess and a hint of earthiness, offering a modern touch to your classic breakfast.
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Iced Coffee: Enjoy a chilled iced coffee or latte for a refreshing pick-me-up that balances out the richness of the dish. It’s a perfect breakfast starter.
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Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Indulge your sweet tooth with fluffy chocolate chip pancakes, whose sweetness complements the savory elements of the stacks for a delightful contrast.
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Classic Mimosa: Toast to the morning with a classic mimosa! The bright citrus notes beautifully balance the richness of your breakfast stacks.
Expert Tips for Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks
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Perfectly Crispy Hash Browns: Ensure your shredded potatoes are well-drained and patted dry before cooking to achieve that ideal crispiness.
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Adjust Gravy Thickness: If your gravy turns out too thick, gradually add more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
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Egg Scrambling Secret: For fluffier scrambled eggs, whisk in a splash of milk before cooking. Don’t rush; let them cook gently for the best texture.
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Layer Wisely: When assembling, let the cheese melt slightly between the layers before pouring on the gravy, creating a deliciously gooey and cohesive stack.
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Sausage Alternatives: If you prefer a leaner option, feel free to substitute turkey sausage or use a vegetarian sausage to suit your taste.
How to Store and Freeze Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through.
- Freezer: Freeze individual stacks wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated all the way through, about 25-30 minutes.
- Reheating: When reheating, ensure the sausage gravy is heated separately and poured over the stacks for the best flavor and texture.
Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks Variations & Substitutions
Ready to put your personal stamp on these comforting stacks? Let your creativity flourish and make this recipe truly yours!
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Vegetarian: Swap the sweet Italian sausage for sautéed mushrooms or a medley of bell peppers for a satisfying plant-based twist.
With this change, you’ll infuse your dish with earthy flavors that complement the crispy potatoes beautifully. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or use chorizo instead of sausage for a fiery version that will awaken your taste buds.
This flavor enhancement brings a delightful heat that perfectly contrasts with the creamy gravy. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the gravy, and ensure your hash browns are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
This way, you can enjoy the same cozy breakfast without worry or compromise! -
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses! Try pepper jack for a melty, spicy layer or mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey experience.
Changing the cheese adds a whole new depth of flavor while keeping that comforting cheesiness intact. -
Herbed Hash Browns: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the shredded potatoes before cooking for an aromatic twist.
These fresh notes elevate the stacks, providing a delightful fragrance and flavor with every bite! -
Egg Variation: For a lighter option, scramble egg whites instead of whole eggs to reduce calories while still enjoying that fluffy texture.
You’ll savor the same satisfaction without the richness of yolks, making it a lovely choice for health-conscious eaters. -
Dairy-Free Gravy: Use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk as alternatives to create a rich, dairy-free version of the sausage gravy.
This swap ensures everyone can enjoy the creamy texture and delicious flavor without any dairy! -
Savory Pancakes Base: Replace hash browns with savory pancakes made from the same potato mixture for an unexpected but delightful twist.
This variation will give you a fluffy and flavorful base that’s perfect for stacking, adding a whole new dimension to your breakfast!
Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks?
Absolutely! For hash browns, I highly recommend using Simply Potatoes® Shredded Hash Browns. They’re pre-shredded for convenience and have the perfect texture to achieve that crispy golden base we all love!
How should I store leftover Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks?
You can store leftover Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat them gently in the microwave or in a skillet until they’re warmed through. This keeps the crispiness intact while ensuring each bite is just as delightful!
Can I freeze Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap individual stacks tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through. It’s like having a cozy breakfast ready whenever you want it!
What can I do if my gravy is too thick?
If your sausage gravy turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a little extra whole milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If you find it too runny, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up. Remember, it’s all about the balance to get that velvety texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks?
Yes, absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage as a substitute. Also, be mindful of any allergies to dairy when using whole milk and cheddar cheese—there are great non-dairy alternatives available today. Always read labels for specific ingredients to cater to everyone’s dietary needs!
Hash Browns Breakfast Stacks: A Cozy Morning Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook the crumbled sweet Italian sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and dry mustard. Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken into a creamy gravy, about 5 minutes.
- Shape the Simply Potatoes® Shredded Hash Browns into discs using a cookie cutter. Heat a Panini press or frying pan over medium-high heat and cook the discs until crispy and golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Scramble the whole eggs in a non-stick skillet with a splash of milk until fluffy and cooked to your preference.
- Assemble your stacks by layering the crispy hash brown discs with scrambled eggs and a generous portion of cheddar cheese. Top with the warm sausage gravy.