Fuel your outdoor adventures with Mountain Man Breakfast: A Hearty Morning Feast packed with sausage, bacon, eggs, and hash browns in one pot!
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Mountain Man Breakfast: A Hearty Morning Feast
This classic one-pot breakfast is the epitome of comfort food for campers. Packed with protein, vegetables, and savory seasonings, it’s the perfect dish to fuel a day of outdoor adventures. The Mountain Man Breakfast is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare, making it a must-have recipe for Dutch oven enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage – Choose your favorite variety for rich and savory flavor.
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon – Adds a smoky, crispy element to the dish.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
- 1 bell pepper, diced – Adds color and a slight crunch; red or green works well.
- 1 ½ pounds of frozen hash browns – These create a hearty and satisfying base for the dish.
- 10 large eggs, beaten – The glue that holds the breakfast together, rich in protein.
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey perfection; feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or a cheese blend.
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Balances and elevates the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon of butter or oil – Used to grease the Dutch oven and prevent sticking.
How to Make It:
- Prepare the Dutch Oven
Start by placing your Dutch oven over medium heat on a campfire or a bed of hot coals. Add a tablespoon of butter or oil, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly.
- Cook the Meats
Add the sausage to the hot Dutch oven, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Let it brown and render its fat, then move it to one side of the pot. Next, lay the bacon strips flat and cook them until they’re crispy. Remove the sausage and bacon, setting them aside on a plate lined with paper towels. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same Dutch oven, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them in the rendered fat from the meat, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and fragrant.
- Layer the Hash Browns
Spread the frozen hash browns evenly over the sautéed vegetables. Cook them undisturbed for a few minutes to allow a crispy layer to form on the bottom. Stir gently to flip the hash browns and continue cooking until golden brown throughout. - Add the Eggs and Cheese
Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the hash brown mixture, allowing them to seep through the layers. Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the eggs for seasoning. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring an even distribution.
- Reintroduce the Meats
Chop the cooked bacon into bite-sized pieces and scatter it over the egg mixture, along with the browned sausage. - Cook to Perfection
Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and add a few hot coals to the top for even cooking. Let the dish bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the cheese has melted into a golden, bubbly layer. - Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the lid, letting the steam escape, and admire the hearty layers of your Mountain Man Breakfast. Use a large spoon to scoop out portions, serving hot.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, with a side of campfire coffee or juice to complement its rich, savory flavors. It’s a breakfast that turns a simple morning into an unforgettable moment in the great outdoors.
FAQs:
What is a Mountain Man Breakfast?
A Mountain Man Breakfast is a hearty one-pot dish typically made in a Dutch oven, combining hash browns, eggs, sausage, bacon, and cheese. It’s a popular meal for camping due to its simplicity and ability to feed a group.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Absolutely! You can swap or add ingredients like diced ham, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts to your preferences.
Do I need a Dutch oven to make this dish?
While a Dutch oven is ideal for even cooking over a campfire, you can also make this recipe in a large cast-iron skillet or a regular baking dish if cooking indoors.
How do I keep the eggs from sticking to the Dutch oven?
Grease the Dutch oven well with butter or oil before adding the ingredients. You can also use parchment paper or a liner to reduce sticking.
How many people does this recipe serve?
The standard recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes. You can easily scale the ingredients up or down to suit your group.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can pre-chop the vegetables, cook the bacon, and brown the sausage at home. Store them in airtight containers and assemble the dish at the campsite.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Place the leftovers in a covered skillet or Dutch oven over low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave portions if you’re not camping.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
Of course! Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables or a plant-based sausage alternative to keep it hearty and flavorful.
How long does it take to cook?
The dish takes about 30-40 minutes to cook, including time to brown the meat, sauté the veggies, and bake the combined ingredients.
Why is it called Mountain Man Breakfast?
The name reflects its hearty, filling nature, making it an ideal meal for outdoor enthusiasts or “mountain men” who need substantial energy for their adventures.
Is this recipe suitable for other meals besides breakfast?
Definitely! The Mountain Man Breakfast is versatile and makes a great brunch, lunch, or even dinner option when you’re craving comfort food.
Conclusion
The Mountain Man Breakfast: A Hearty Morning Feast is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your camping adventures. Its blend of hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and easy preparation makes it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re fueling up for a hike or simply enjoying the morning breeze by the campfire, this dish delivers the perfect start to your day.
Looking for more breakfast inspiration? Check out our guide to a pancake breakfast for another campfire favorite. For tips, techniques, and other recipe ideas, explore this amazing YouTube channel that’s packed with culinary creativity!
Mountain Man Breakfast
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage
- 8 slices (240 g) bacon, chopped
- 1 package (30 oz/850 g) frozen hash browns
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt
- ½ tsp (2.5 g) black pepper
- ½ tsp (2.5 g) garlic powder
- ½ cup (15 g) diced green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a well-greased Dutch oven over medium heat or campfire coals.
- Cook the sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Remove and set aside.
- Add the chopped bacon to the Dutch oven and cook until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same Dutch oven, cook the hash browns in the bacon drippings until golden and crispy, stirring occasionally.
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour the mixture over the hash browns.
- Layer the cooked sausage and bacon evenly on top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and cook over low heat or hot coals for 20-30 minutes, until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with diced green onions if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and sausage, and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- If you prefer spiciness, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be reheated over a low flame or in a microwave.
