Quick Sweet Potato Brussels Hash

A Flavor-Packed, 30-Minute Skillet Meal for Any Time of Day

When you need a meal that is fast, nourishing, and deeply satisfying, few dishes deliver as consistently as a well-made vegetable hash. The Quick Sweet Potato Brussels Hash is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, thoughtful seasoning, and proper cooking technique can transform everyday vegetables into a crave-worthy meal. Designed to be ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed weekend brunches, or meal prep for the days ahead.

At its core, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the earthy, slightly nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts. When cooked together in a hot skillet, these vegetables caramelize beautifully, creating crisp edges and tender interiors. A carefully chosen blend of spices—smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme—adds depth without overpowering the vegetables themselves.

One of the greatest strengths of this hash is its flexibility. It can be enjoyed as a simple vegetable-forward dish or enhanced with optional additions such as beef, sausage, tofu, or eggs. Whether you follow a gluten-free, vegetarian, or protein-rich diet, this recipe adapts easily while remaining satisfying and balanced.

This article will walk you through every element of the recipe, from ingredient selection and preparation to cooking techniques and serving ideas, ensuring reliable and delicious results every time.

Why This Hash Works So Well

The success of this dish comes from the way flavors and textures are layered:

• Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and a hearty base.
• Brussels sprouts add structure, mild bitterness, and crispness when caramelized.
• Oil and spices enhance browning and deepen flavor.
• Optional proteins and toppings allow customization without changing the core recipe.
• Skillet cooking, especially in cast iron, promotes caramelization and texture.

Together, these elements create a dish that feels comforting, wholesome, and complete.

Ingredients

Base Vegetables

• 2 cups diced sweet potatoes (about 1 large)
• 2 cups trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts

Cooking Fat

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt, or more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup diced onion (optional)
• ½ cup diced bell pepper (optional)
• 4 slices cooked beef chopped (optional)
• ½ pound turkey or breakfast sausage (optional)
• 1 cup tofu cubes (optional)

Optional Toppings and Serving Additions

• 2 to 4 eggs for serving (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional topping)
• Avocado slices (optional topping)
• Hot sauce (optional topping)

Ingredient Breakdown and Purpose

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes form the foundation of the hash. Their natural sugars caramelize when cooked properly, creating golden edges and a tender interior. Dicing them into small, uniform cubes ensures even cooking within the short timeframe of the recipe.

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts add balance to the sweetness of the potatoes. When halved and cooked cut-side down, they develop a crispy, golden surface and a tender center. Their slightly bitter undertone enhances the overall flavor complexity of the dish.

Olive Oil or Avocado Oil

These oils have suitable smoke points for skillet cooking and provide richness while helping the vegetables brown evenly. Using just one tablespoon keeps the dish balanced without feeling greasy.

Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika adds subtle smokiness and warmth, giving the hash a depth of flavor often associated with longer cooking times.

Garlic Powder and Onion Powder

These seasonings provide savory background flavor without the moisture that fresh garlic or onion might introduce early in cooking.

Dried Thyme

Thyme adds an herbaceous note that complements both sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, reinforcing the dish’s savory character.

Salt and Black Pepper

Proper seasoning is essential. Salt enhances caramelization, while black pepper adds gentle heat.

Optional Vegetables

Diced onion and bell pepper add sweetness, color, and aroma. They are optional but provide additional layers of flavor and texture.

Optional Proteins

• Beef adds smokiness and richness.
• Sausage contributes savory spice and heartiness.
• Tofu makes the dish plant-based while absorbing surrounding flavors.

Optional Eggs and Toppings

Eggs add richness and protein, while fresh herbs, avocado, and hot sauce provide brightness and contrast.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by dicing the sweet potatoes into small, uniform cubes. This step is critical for even cooking. Trim the Brussels sprouts, remove any damaged outer leaves, and slice them in half. If using onions or bell peppers, dice them now so everything is ready to go into the skillet at the appropriate time.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet over medium heat. A cast-iron skillet is highly recommended, as it retains heat well and promotes caramelization. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil and allow it to warm until shimmering.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Add the diced sweet potatoes to the hot skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allowing the potatoes to sit undisturbed between stirs helps them develop crisp edges.

Step 4: Add Brussels Sprouts and Optional Vegetables

Once the sweet potatoes begin to soften, add the Brussels sprouts, along with onions and bell peppers if using. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Continue Cooking and Caramelizing

Cook for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, stirring only occasionally. Avoid overcrowding the pan, and allow the vegetables to rest against the hot surface to develop golden, crisp edges. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Add Optional Proteins

If using beef or sausage, fold them into the hash during the final 5 minutes of cooking. For tofu, add it gently and allow it to warm through while absorbing the seasoning.

Step 7: Cook Eggs (Optional)

If serving with eggs, create small wells in the hash. Crack eggs into each well, cover the skillet, and cook until the eggs reach your preferred doneness.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Top the hash with fresh parsley or chives, avocado slices, or hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.

Tips for Perfect Hash Every Time

• Dice vegetables evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
• Use medium heat to avoid burning before vegetables soften.
• Stir less often to encourage caramelization.
• Season gradually and adjust at the end.
• Serve immediately for best texture.

Serving Ideas

This hash works beautifully as:

• A standalone dinner
• A brunch dish with eggs
• A side dish for roasted meats
• A base for grain bowls or breakfast plates

Storage and Meal Prep

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 cup

• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes. Omit beef and sausage, and use tofu as the protein option.

2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes. It stores well for up to three days and reheats nicely in a skillet.

3. Do I need a cast-iron skillet?

No, but it provides superior browning and texture.

4. Can I adjust the spices?

Absolutely. The spice blend is flexible and can be adapted to your taste.

5. Can I serve this for breakfast?

Yes. Adding eggs makes it an excellent breakfast or brunch option.

---

Conclusion

The Quick Sweet Potato Brussels Hash proves that wholesome, flavorful meals do not need to be complicated or time-consuming. With simple ingredients, thoughtful seasoning, and a single skillet, this recipe delivers bold flavor, satisfying texture, and remarkable versatility. Whether served as a main dish or a supporting side, it fits effortlessly into busy schedules while still feeling intentional and nourishing.

Print