There's something incredibly comforting about a hearty breakfast hash, especially when it involves crispy bacon and tender potatoes. This slow cooker bacon and potato breakfast hash is perfect for those busy mornings when you want a delicious meal without the fuss. Growing up in the Midwest, breakfast was always a big deal in our house, and this dish brings back those cozy weekend mornings spent with family. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can focus on getting ready for the day or spending time with loved ones. It's a dish that feels like a warm hug, and who doesn't need that to start their day?

This breakfast hash pairs beautifully with a side of scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with some toast or a warm biscuit to soak up all the delicious flavors. For a bit of freshness, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the hash. And of course, a hot cup of coffee or tea is the perfect beverage to round out this comforting breakfast.

Servings: 4-6 servings

6 slices of bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.

2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. In a slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, cooked bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, red and green bell peppers, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme.

4. Stir everything together until well combined.

5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

6. About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hash. Cover and let the cheese melt.

7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack if you like a bit of heat. If you're looking to add more veggies, consider throwing in some mushrooms or zucchini. For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the onions and garlic. You can also add some cooked sausage or ham for a meatier hash. This dish is quite versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients!

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