These protein breakfast Loaded Hash Browns are a delicious, crunchy, savory start to your day, topped with fluffy scrambled eggs, creamy avocado, and cottage cheese!
This has been one of my MOST popular recipes – everyone went crazy on Instagram for this 5-ingredient (+seasoning) breakfast. Crispy and creamy, all at the same time – I fell head over heels for this quick, high-protein breakfast.
While you’re at it, try my Sweet and Savory Breakfast Loaded Hashbrowns! My Loaded Breakfast Burritos are also SO delicious, as are my Hash Brown Bacon, Egg and Cheese Bagel Sandwiches.
WHAT ARE LOADED HASH BROWNS?
Loaded hash browns are crispy, golden-brown potato patties or hashbrowns that are piled high with yummy toppings. You’ll see loaded hashbrowns with scrambled eggs, avocado, cheese, sour cream, veggies, or even bacon.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner, loaded hash browns are all about combining textures and layers of ingredients.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
I love this Loaded Hash Browns recipe because it’s quick, hearty, and packed with protein that keeps me feeling full for hours.
The crispy hash browns create the perfect base, while the creamy avocado, fluffy scrambled eggs, and cottage cheese add layers of flavor and texture.
Plus, the Everything But The Bagel seasoning gives it a savory, deli-style finish that I crave!
INGREDIENTS NEEDED TO MAKE LOADED HASH BROWNS
I recommend using Trader Joe’s hash browns. They come out incredibly delicious and crunchy.
Make sure you use ripe, creamy avocados and full-fat chunky cottage cheese.
Topping your Loaded Hash Browns with Everything But The Bagel Seasoning is optional, but I never skip it. You could also use your own homemade topping or just add some sesame and poppy seeds.
HOW TO MAKE THIS RECIPE
Whip up this Loaded Hash Browns recipe in these simple steps:
Cook the hash browns
Cook your hash browns according to the package instructions until they are golden and crunchy. Set them aside until you’re ready to assemble and serve your Loaded Hash Browns.
Scramble the eggs
Over medium heat, scramble the eggs and season them with salt and pepper. Keep them warm on the side.
Mash the avocado
Add the avocado to a bowl and mash it. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the hash browns
On a plate, place the hash browns and top them with mashed avocado.
Add eggs and cheese
Top the avocado with scrambled eggs, then spoon cottage cheese over the eggs.
Add seasoning
Sprinkle the Everything But The Bagel seasoning on top and dive in!
SUBSTITUTIONS AND VARIATIONS
Here are a few ingredient swaps you can make with these loaded hashbrowns:
- Hash browns: You can use sweet potato hash browns or just regular whole grain toast for the base.
- Eggs: You can make an egg white only version of this protein breakfast.
- Avocado: I’ve made a version of this with hummus instead of the avocado. Also, SO good.
- Cottage cheese: Use ricotta cheese or feta crumbles as an alternative.
- Seasoning: Use chili flakes, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like chives or dill instead of Everything But The Bagel Seasoning.
- Add-ins: You can add pan-fried spinach, cherry tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
3 MISTAKES (TO AVOID) WHEN MAKING LOADED HASH BROWNS
I thought I’d include a few typical trip-ups I see when people try to make these:
- Overcrowding the pan: You want to keep some space between the hash browns for crispy, crunchy results.
- Under-seasoning: Each component of the hash browns needs to be seasoned so the whole thing is delicious.
- Cold eggs: Yikes! Don’t let them get cold. The same goes for overcooking the eggs.
STORAGE AND MAKE AHEAD
I would recommend cooking everything fresh and eating it straight away. This way, the Loaded Hash Browns stay crunchy.
If you have leftovers, reheat them in the microwave – be sure to keep the avocado and cheese separate from the hash browns when reheating.
SERVING AND PAIRING
These Loaded Hash Browns are perfect just as is, but you could pair them with other breakfast bites like this Breakfast Crunchwrap or my Easy Breezy Oven Baked Breakfast Taquitos.
TIPS AND PROBLEM-SOLVING
Loaded Hash Browns are super simple to make, but here are a few tips for the yummiest results:
- Make sure your pan is hot and avoid overcrowding it. A little space between the hash browns helps them crisp up.
- Creamy eggs: Cook your eggs slowly over medium heat to prevent overcooking.
- Taste and season each layer: Season each layer with a little salt as you go.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Add a little sour cream or plain greek yogurt to the avocado to prevent it from browning.
As long as the hash browns are gluten free then it already is!
Absolutely. Grate fresh potatoes, squeeze out excess moisture, and pan-fry until crispy.
OTHER BREAKFAST RECIPES TO TRY
Easy Cheesy Oven Baked Breakfast Taquitos
Loaded Hash Browns
Ingredients
- 3 hash browns
- 3 eggs scrambled
- 1 avocado smashed
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- Everything But The Bagel seasoning optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- If using frozen hash browns, follow package instructions to cook until golden brown and crispy. Set aside.
- In a separate pan, scramble the eggs over medium heat until fully cooked. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
- In a bowl, smash the avocado with a fork until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Place the cooked hash browns on a serving plate and spread a layer of smashed avocado over each hash brown.
- Divide the scrambled eggs evenly among the hash browns, placing them on top of the avocado layer.
- Spoon cottage cheese over the scrambled eggs on each hash brown.
- Sprinkle Everything But The Bagel seasoning (if using) over the loaded hash browns for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your loaded hash browns!
