If you have leftover corned beef from a St. Patrick’s Day feast or just want a hearty, flavorful breakfast, homemade corned beef hash is a perfect choice. This classic dish combines tender corned beef, crispy potatoes, and sautéed onions and peppers for a satisfying meal any time of day. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to making your own corned beef hash from scratch.
What You’ll Need
– 2 to 3 cups cooked corned beef, chopped or cubed
– 2 to 3 cups potatoes (Yukon gold, red, or white waxy potatoes work best), peeled and diced
– ½ cup onion, finely chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional but adds great flavor)
– 3 tablespoons butter (or a mix of butter and tallow for extra richness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 to 6 eggs (optional, for serving on top)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes
Place diced potatoes in a pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 7-8 minutes until just tender but not falling apart. Drain well.
- Sauté the Vegetables
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and bell peppers and cook for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Corned Beef
Stir in the cooked potatoes and chopped corned beef. Mix well so everything is coated with butter. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the hash is nicely browned and crispy on the edges.
- Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra touch, add garlic or herbs like Italian seasoning if you like. If you want eggs, cook them separately (fried, scrambled, or baked on top) and serve alongside or on top of the hash.
Tips for the Perfect Corned Beef Hash
– Use leftover corned beef stored in its cooking liquid to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
– If you don’t have leftovers, deli counters often sell unsliced corned beef that works great.
– Let the hash cook undisturbed on medium heat for a few minutes at a time to develop a crispy crust. Resist the urge to stir too often.
– Waxy potatoes hold their shape better than starchy Russets, which can become mushy.
– Add chopped fresh herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Why Make Corned Beef Hash at Home?
Corned beef hash is a fantastic way to transform leftovers into a new, delicious meal. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and customizable-perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, it’s a comforting dish with roots in many cultures, where cooked meat and potatoes are combined into a satisfying skillet meal.
Variations to Try
– Add cooked carrots or scallions for more veggies.
– Mix in cheese or top with homemade hot sauce for a flavor boost.
– Bake eggs on top in the oven for a one-pan meal.
Making homemade corned beef hash is easier than you think and yields a crispy, savory dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try with your next batch of corned beef leftovers!
Enjoy your hearty, homemade corned beef hash with eggs or your favorite breakfast sides for a meal full of flavor and comfort.