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There’s a certain joy that comes with transforming a classic dish into something truly unique. When I first replaced the English muffin with crispy, golden-brown hash brown patties, I thought, “Why didn’t I think of this sooner?” This Hash Brown Eggs Benedict has quickly become my go-to for brunch gatherings, as it takes the traditional recipe and flips it on its head. Picture perfectly poached eggs sitting atop a savory ham slice, all drizzled with a rich, homemade hollandaise sauce.

This dish not only pleases the palate but also solves the dilemma of what to serve at your next weekend gathering. Whether it’s a leisurely lazy Sunday or a special occasion, the crunch of the hash browns adds that delightful texture we all crave. If you’re tired of the same old breakfast routine and longing for something that feels both gourmet and satisfying, you’ve just found it. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure and elevate your brunch game like never before!

Why is Hash Brown Eggs Benedict a Game Changer?

Crispy Texture: The golden hash brown patties provide a delightful crunch that transforms your typical Eggs Benedict into a texture-rich experience.
Rich, Creamy Hollandaise: This recipe features a smooth, homemade hollandaise that perfectly complements the savory elements.
Quick & Easy: Simple steps make it a breeze to prepare, right from poaching eggs to frying hash browns—ideal for busy brunch days!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, it’ll impress friends and family, leaving everyone wanting more.
Versatile Options: Swap ingredients for your preference—smoked salmon instead of ham, or fresh herbs for unique flavors. Transform your routine with this delightful twist, and you won’t regret trying it!

Hash Brown Eggs Benedict Ingredients

For the Hash Brown Base
• Frozen Hash Brown Patties – These offer a crispy texture; feel free to use fresh grated potatoes to create your own from scratch.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; avocado oil or olive oil can be great substitutes if desired.

For the Perfect Poached Eggs
• Large Eggs – The main protein source; using fresh eggs will give the best poaching results.
• White Vinegar – Aids in coagulating egg whites while poaching; lemon juice can serve as an alternative.

For the Savory Toppings
• Deli Ham or Canadian Bacon – Adds a savory flavor; turkey ham or veggie alternatives make a lighter choice.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper – Basic seasoning staples to enhance flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Chopped Chives – Optional garnish that adds freshness; can be swapped for parsley or omitted entirely.

For the Creamy Hollandaise Sauce
• Egg Yolks – The base for a rich hollandaise; ensure they are fresh for the best results—no substitutes here.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a necessary acidity to the hollandaise; freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor of the hollandaise; be sure to taste as you go!
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a slight tang to the sauce; yellow mustard can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Cayenne Pepper – An optional added spice; feel free to omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides a luxurious base for the hollandaise; ghee is a wonderful dairy-free alternative.

How to Make Hash Brown Eggs Benedict

Prep: Start by letting the eggs and ham sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure they cook evenly and bring out their full flavors.
Poach Eggs:

Combine water and white vinegar in a skillet, heating until it’s nearly boiling.
Strain the eggs to remove excess whites then gently add them to the water.
Cover and let them cook for about 3.5 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.

Cook Hash Browns:

Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet to 350°F.
Fry the hash brown patties for 8-10 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Season with kosher salt and pepper, then add slices of ham on top; keep them warm while you finish.

Make Hollandaise Sauce:

Blend the egg yolks, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a blender until smooth.
Slowly drizzle in hot melted butter while blending until the mixture becomes creamy and thick.

Assemble:

Plate the crispy hash browns, layering them with ham, and topping with the perfectly poached eggs.
Finish with a generous drizzle of hollandaise sauce and garnish with chopped chives for that fresh pop.

Optional: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the hollandaise for a slight kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Hash Brown Eggs Benedict

• Perfectly Poached Eggs: Use a fine mesh strainer to remove excess whites before poaching; this ensures a neater presentation and avoids fluffiness.

• Keep Eggs Warm: After poaching, keep the eggs in warm water with low heat to reheat briefly before plating for best serving temperature.

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at around 350°F while frying hash browns. This will create that crispy texture without burning them.

• Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your hollandaise sauce before serving; adjust seasoning and thickness as needed for ultimate flavor in your Hash Brown Eggs Benedict.

• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap ham for smoked salmon for a richer twist or fresh herbs in hollandaise to add a unique flavor profile.

Storage Tips for Hash Brown Eggs Benedict

Room Temperature: Serve your Hash Brown Eggs Benedict immediately for the best flavor and texture; it’s best enjoyed fresh out of the kitchen.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, store components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Hash browns and eggs should be kept separate to maintain their textures.
Freezer: You can freeze the hash brown patties (cooked or uncooked) for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a hot oven for crispiness when needed.
Reheating: To reheat leftover hash browns, place them in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy. Poached eggs can be gently reheated in warm water for a couple of minutes before serving.

What to Serve with Hash Brown Eggs Benedict?

Delighting in this brunch masterpiece opens the door to countless pairing possibilities, enhancing your culinary experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of berries and citrus cuts through the richness of the dish, enhancing your palate.
Light Green Salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette brings a crisp contrast and adds a burst of freshness to the meal.
Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon complements the textures of hash browns and eggs, making every bite feel indulgent and heartwarming.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a luscious, buttery element that pairs beautifully with the crispy hash browns and rich hollandaise.
Mimosa: This classic brunch beverage adds a bubbly, fruity touch that brightens your table and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the dish.
Hash Brown Casserole: For an extra hit of comfort, serve a hash brown casserole on the side, deepening the satisfying potato experience.
Sweet Pastries: Light pastries like croissants or danishes add a delightful sweet note to the brunch table, offering a nice balance to the heartiness of the eggs benedict.

Combining these elements creates a brunch spread bursting with flavor, texture, and warmth—perfect for any gathering!

Hash Brown Eggs Benedict Variations

Feel free to mix and match these ideas for a brunch experience that’s uniquely yours!

Smoked Salmon: Substitute ham with smoked salmon for a luxurious twist that enhances brunch elegance.
Herb-Infused Hollandaise: Stir in fresh dill or tarragon into the hollandaise for bright, herbal notes that elevate the sauce.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap ham for sautéed spinach or mushrooms, creating a hearty yet veggie-packed alternative that everyone will love.
Cheesy Goodness: Top the hash browns with a sprinkle of aged cheddar or feta before adding the eggs for a rich, melting flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or sriracha to the hollandaise for a zesty punch, taking your dish to new heights.
Sweet Twist: Introduce caramelized onions or roasted bell peppers as toppings, bringing a delightful sweetness to the savory layers.
Quinoa Base: For a gluten-free option, replace hash browns with crispy quinoa cakes, adding a nutty flavor and interesting texture.
Tropical Vibes: Exchange the traditional toppings for diced avocado and mango salsa, creating a refreshing, bright dish perfect for sunny gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Hash Brown Eggs Benedict are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prep the hash brown patties and poach the eggs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the hash browns and allow them to cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. For the poached eggs, store them in a bowl of cold water in the fridge, which helps prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the hash browns in a hot skillet, reheat the eggs in warm water, and whip up the hollandaise sauce fresh. This way, you’ll enjoy every bit of the deliciousness without the rush!

Hash Brown Eggs Benedict Recipe FAQs

What type of hash browns should I use for Hash Brown Eggs Benedict?
Absolutely! I recommend using frozen hash brown patties for convenience and a guaranteed crispy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also make your own by shredding fresh potatoes and pressing them into patties.

How can I store leftover Hash Brown Eggs Benedict?
If you happen to have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist!), store the components separately in airtight containers. The hash browns and poached eggs should be refrigerated and consumed within 2 days for the best taste and texture. This helps preserve their delightful crunch and softness!

Can I freeze the hash brown patties?
Yes, you can! You can freeze the hash brown patties, whether they are cooked or uncooked, for up to 1 month. To freeze them, lay the patties flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them into a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.

What should I do if my hollandaise sauce is too thick?
If your hollandaise sauce ends up too thick, don’t worry! Just whisk in a little warm water or lemon juice, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help loosen the sauce while keeping that lovely rich flavor intact.

Are there any dietary considerations for Hash Brown Eggs Benedict?
Certainly! If you’re making this dish for friends or family with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the ham with turkey ham or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. As for allergies, ensure to use substitutes like dairy-free butter or plant-based yogurt if needed. Always check if someone has egg allergies since they are a key ingredient in both the hollandaise and the poached eggs.

How do I make sure my poached eggs are perfect?
For perfectly poached eggs, use fresh eggs and a fine mesh strainer to remove any excess whites before adding them to the boiling water. This keeps the poached eggs compact and visually appealing! Cook them for about 3.5 minutes for a runny yolk. If you want to keep them warm after cooking, place them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes until you’re ready to plate.