This cottage cheese & sweet potato breakfast hash is one of those meals that feels hearty and satisfying but still light.
The sweet potatoes get crispy and caramelized, the veggies add freshness, and the cottage cheese brings a creamy, protein-packed finish.
It’s a cozy dish I love to make on weekends when I want something filling without being heavy.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve always been a fan of hash for breakfast, but sometimes it feels too greasy or too heavy. This one is lighter but still has all the textures I crave — crispy potatoes, soft veggies, and a creamy topping.
- Packed with flavor and color
- Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein
- A one-pan recipe — less cleanup
- Perfect for a cozy breakfast or even dinner
- Easy to customize with what’s in your fridge
Servings & Time
Servings: 2 bowls
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced small (about 3 cups)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Cut sweet potatoes into small, even cubes so they cook evenly
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet — that’s how you get crispy edges
- Add the garlic last so it doesn’t burn
- Let the potatoes sit in the pan without stirring too often to develop color
- Use fresh herbs at the end for brightness
Tools Required
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Large nonstick skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes or even butternut squash
- Add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens
- Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a creamier topping
- Add a fried egg on top for extra protein
- Spice it up with chili flakes or hot sauce
Make Ahead Tips
- Dice sweet potatoes, onion, and pepper the night before and store in containers
- Cook the hash in advance and reheat in a skillet — just add cottage cheese fresh before serving
- Double the batch and save portions for weekday breakfasts
Step 1: Heat Oil and Add Sweet Potatoes
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until starting to brown.
Step 2: Add Onion and Bell Pepper
Stir in ½ diced yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 5–6 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Add 1 minced garlic clove, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove hash from the heat and spoon into bowls. Top each with ¼ cup cottage cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a skillet to bring back crispiness
- Add cottage cheese fresh after reheating
Macros Information (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and caramelize when cooked in oil
- Onions and peppers add savory flavor and balance the sweetness
- Garlic and paprika build depth and aroma
- Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein while cooling the hot hash
Common Mistakes
- Cutting sweet potatoes too large: They won’t cook through evenly
- Stirring too much: Prevents potatoes from crisping
- Adding garlic too early: Can burn and turn bitter
- Skipping oil: Leads to dry, uneven cooking
What to Serve With
- A fried or poached egg on top
- Fresh avocado slices
- Whole grain toast on the side
- A drizzle of hot sauce for extra kick
FAQ
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Yes, but they may release water — cook longer to crisp them up.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Swap cottage cheese with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt.
Does it reheat well?
Yes, just reheat in a skillet to bring back texture.
Can I add meat?
Absolutely — cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken works great.
Can I bake this instead?
Yes, spread veggies on a sheet pan, roast until tender, then top with cottage cheese.
This breakfast hash is warm, colorful, and packed with flavor. Try it out and enjoy a simple, hearty start to your day!