Ham Hash Brown Skillet

There's something truly special about a dish that brings comfort, convenience, and crowd-pleasing flavor all in one skillet. This Funeral Potatoes and Ham Breakfast Skillet transforms the beloved casserole classic into a hearty morning meal that's perfect for feeding family and friends. With crispy hash browns, savory diced ham, creamy cheese sauce, and that signature crunchy cornflake topping, every bite delivers the nostalgic flavors you crave with minimal cleanup. Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch or looking for a satisfying breakfast that can be prepped ahead, this skillet brings warmth and comfort to your table in just 50 minutes.

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The beauty of this breakfast skillet lies in its layered textures and flavors. Golden hash browns provide the hearty base, while diced ham adds savory depth and protein. The creamy mixture of sour cream, condensed chicken soup, and melted cheddar creates that signature richness funeral potatoes are famous for, while sautéed onions and red bell peppers bring a touch of sweetness and color. The buttery crushed cornflake topping bakes to golden perfection, adding the final touch of crunch that makes every forkful satisfying.

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 the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

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

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

Step 4

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

Step 5

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

Step 6

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

Step 7

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

Step 8

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For best results, make sure your hash browns are completely thawed before cooking—this helps them crisp up nicely and prevents excess moisture in the skillet. When sautéing the onions and bell peppers, cook them until they're tender but not browned, as they'll continue cooking in the oven. Stir the creamy mixture thoroughly with the potatoes and ham to ensure every bite is coated in that rich, cheesy sauce. The crushed cornflakes should be fairly fine but not powdery; place them in a sealed bag and gently crush with a rolling pin for the perfect texture. Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes after baking so the sauce can set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile breakfast skillet welcomes creative variations to suit your taste and dietary needs. Substitute smoked turkey or crispy bacon for ham if preferred, or try crumbled breakfast sausage for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, use cream of mushroom soup and omit the ham entirely, adding extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead. If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños to the onion and pepper mixture, or stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper with the seasonings. For those avoiding gluten, use gluten-free cream soup and substitute crushed gluten-free cornflakes or potato chips for the topping. You can also experiment with different cheeses—try a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or add a sprinkle of Parmesan to the cornflake topping for extra savory depth.

Serviervorschläge

This hearty breakfast skillet is excellent served with a side of fruit or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. Consider offering fresh berries, sliced melon, or a citrus fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete brunch spread, pair it with lighter options like yogurt parfaits or a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The skillet also works beautifully as part of a buffet-style breakfast alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh-baked muffins or biscuits. Don't forget to garnish with those fresh chives for a pop of color and mild onion flavor that complements the creamy, cheesy base perfectly.

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Whether you're serving this Funeral Potatoes and Ham Breakfast Skillet for a holiday brunch, a weekend family gathering, or simply want to enjoy a comforting morning meal, this recipe delivers on every level. The combination of creamy, cheesy potatoes with savory ham and that irresistible crunchy topping creates a dish that's both nostalgic and deeply satisfying. Best of all, with just one skillet and 50 minutes from start to finish, you can bring this crowd-pleasing breakfast to the table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Serve it hot, garnish with fresh chives, and watch it disappear as everyone comes back for seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of potatoes work best in this skillet?

Frozen hash browns thawed before use provide the ideal texture and crispiness for this dish.

→ Can I substitute the ham with other proteins?

Yes, smoked turkey or bacon make excellent alternatives to ham for varied flavors.

→ How should I achieve a crunchy topping?

Mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the skillet before baking for a golden, crunchy finish.

→ Is there a vegetarian adaptation for this meal?

Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken and omit the meat for a vegetarian-friendly version.

→ What spices enhance the flavor without overpowering?

Garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt complement the ingredients perfectly without overshadowing their natural tastes.