
The magic of a great hash is all in the texture, a contrast of creamy potato interior and shatteringly crisp exterior. Achieving that in your cheesy corned beef hash requires one key technique: resisting the urge to stir the potatoes too often. I learned this the hard way, standing over a skillet on a lazy Sunday morning, poking and prodding what should have been a glorious, golden-brown breakfast into a sad, mushy scramble. It was a lesson in patience, one that transformed my weekend ritual.
This cheesy corned beef hash recipe is my redemption story, a simple formula that turns humble ingredients into a creamy, flavorful breakfast that feels like a warm hug. It is the ultimate comfort food, born from the need to use up leftover corned beef but delicious enough to warrant opening a can. Whether you are feeding a crowd after a holiday or just craving a hearty, satisfying start to your day, this dish delivers. It is regular kitchen, regular time, great results. Food that feels like home, with a melty, cheesy twist that makes everything better.
Table of Contents
Cheesy Corned Beef Hash
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, flavorful breakfast that feels like a warm hug. It features a perfect contrast of crispy potato exterior and creamy interior, all topped with melty cheddar cheese. It is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for using leftovers or making a quick and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 25min
- Total Time: 40min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: breakfast
- Method: frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 red or green bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 12 ounces cooked corned beef, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 4 large eggs (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Place diced potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon water. Cover and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes until just tender. Drain and let steam dry.
- Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add par-cooked potatoes to the skillet. Spread in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to sear. Gently flip and cook another 4-5 minutes undisturbed until crispy and golden.
- Push potato mixture to the sides. Add diced corned beef and minced garlic to the center. Cook for 1-2 minutes to crisp slightly, then stir everything together.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the hash. Stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hash. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve optionally with fried or poached eggs on top.
Notes
The key to perfect texture is not stirring the potatoes too often. Let them sit to form a crispy crust. For a quicker version, use canned corned beef. Leftovers reheat best in a skillet to restore crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 950
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 11
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 22
- Cholesterol: 120
Ingredients List for Cheesy Corned Beef Hash

Cheesy corned beef hash starts with a short list of simple ingredients, most of which you likely have on hand. The beauty of this corned beef hash recipe is its flexibility; it is a perfect canvas for what is in your fridge.
- 1 pound russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 red or green bell pepper, diced (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 12 ounces cooked corned beef, diced (use leftovers or canned corned beef hash)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 4 large eggs (optional, for serving)
Smart Swaps & Dietary Notes:
- Potatoes: Sweet potatoes make a fantastic, slightly sweeter alternative. Try my Corned Beef Hash with Sweet Potatoes for a delicious twist.
- Corned Beef: Leftover homemade corned beef is ideal, but a 12-ounce can of corned beef works perfectly in a pinch for a quick corned beef hash canned version.
- Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free shreds. The hash is still incredibly flavorful without it.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in a handful of spinach at the end or some diced mushrooms with the onions.
Timing for Your Corned Beef Hash Breakfast
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
This is about 30% faster than roasting a whole pan of potatoes, thanks to the smaller dice and skillet method. It is a weeknight-worthy dinner or a weekend brunch star with minimal fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Corned Beef Hash
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly textured, deeply flavorful cheesy corned beef hash every single time.
- Prep and Par-Cook the Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with a tablespoon of water. Cover and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, until just tender when pierced with a fork. This step is the secret to creamy interiors without burning the outsides. Drain any excess water and let them steam dry for a minute.
- Sauté the Aromatics: While the potatoes cook, heat the olive oil or butter in a large cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and starting to get a little color.
- Build the Hash Base: Add the par-cooked potatoes to the skillet. Spread them out in an even layer and let them cook, undisturbed, for 4-5 minutes. This is the golden rule: let them get a good sear! After 5 minutes, give everything a gentle flip or stir, then let it cook undisturbed for another 4-5 minutes. You are aiming for lots of crispy, golden-brown edges.
- Add the Flavor: Push the potato mixture to the sides of the skillet. Add the diced corned beef and minced garlic to the center. Let the corned beef get a little crispy for 1-2 minutes, then stir everything together. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the hash and stir to combine.
- The Cheesy Finish: Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire surface of the cheesy corned beef hash. Cover the skillet with a lid or a large baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley. For the ultimate corned beef hash breakfast, fry or poach a few eggs and serve them right on top of the hash. The runny yolk mixing with the cheesy potatoes is pure magic.
Nutritional Information for Cheesy Corned Beef Hash
A serving (approximately one-quarter of the recipe, without egg) provides roughly:
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
This cheesy corned beef hash is a protein-packed meal to start your day. The potatoes provide energy-boosting carbohydrates and potassium, while the corned beef and cheese offer satisfying protein and fats. Using a sharp cheddar means you get big flavor without needing to use as much.
Equipment Needed for This Corned Beef Hash Recipe
You do not need anything fancy to make this cheesy corned beef hash. A regular kitchen setup is perfect.
- A Large Skillet: A 10 or 12-inch cast iron, stainless steel, or non-stick skillet is essential. Cast iron gives the best, most even crust for a truly Crispy Corned Beef Hash.
- A Good Chef's Knife: For dicing potatoes, onions, and corned beef.
- Cutting Board
- Microwave-Safe Bowl (with a lid or plate): For par-cooking the potatoes—a major time-saver.
- Spatula: A sturdy, flat-edged spatula is best for flipping and serving.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Corned Beef Hash Recipe
This is more than just another corned beef hash recipe. It is a reliable path to a fantastic meal.
- Comfort Food, Made Easy. It transforms simple, affordable ingredients into a deeply satisfying dish that everyone loves.
- Perfect for Leftovers. It is the glorious destiny for any leftover Beer Braised Corned Beef & Cabbage. No waste, all flavor.
- Endlessly Adaptable. Add different cheeses, swap in sweet potatoes, or throw in extra veggies. It is your kitchen, your rules.
- One-Skillet Wonder. Minimal cleanup is a beautiful thing, especially for a hearty breakfast or dinner.
- The Texture is Everything. By mastering the "leave it alone" method, you get that dreamy contrast of creamy potato and crispy crust in every bite.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

You can easily tweak this cheesy corned beef hash to fit different dietary needs without sacrificing the cozy, comforting soul of the dish.
- Lower-Carb / Keto: Swap the potatoes for diced turnips or radishes. They crisp up beautifully and have a similar texture.
- Higher-Protein: Add an extra egg on top for each serving, or stir in a cup of cooked black beans when you add the corned beef.
- Lighter Dairy: Use a reduced-fat sharp cheddar or a strong cheese like Parmesan—you will need less to get the same flavor punch.
- Lower-Sodium: If using canned corned beef, look for a low-sodium version and skip adding extra salt until the very end, tasting as you go.
Serving Suggestions for Your Corned Beef Hash Breakfast
This cheesy corned beef hash is a complete meal on its own, but a few simple additions can make it extra special.
- The Classic: Top with a fried or poached egg. The runny yolk creates a luxurious sauce. My Corned Beef Hash & Eggs recipe is dedicated to this perfect pairing.
- Bright & Fresh: Serve with a simple side of sliced tomatoes or a quick arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Brunch Spread: Pair it with toasted sourdough, fresh fruit, and a pot of strong coffee for a weekend feast.
- Dinner Twist: Serve it alongside steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a hearty, any-night dinner that breaks the routine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few small tweaks make the difference between good hash and great hash. Here is what to watch for.
- Stirring Too Much. This is the cardinal sin of hash-making. Let the potatoes sit and form a crust. Constant stirring steams them and makes them mushy. Patience is your best ingredient.
- Dicing Potatoes Too Large. Keep them to a consistent ½-inch dice. Larger pieces will not cook through evenly, leaving you with hard centers or burnt outsides.
- Skipping the Par-Cook. Trying to cook raw diced potatoes all the way through in the skillet often leads to burnt onions and undercooked spuds. The microwave steam gives them a head start for perfect texture.
- Using a Crowded Skillet. If your pan is too small, the ingredients will steam instead of fry. Use a large skillet and cook in two batches if necessary for the best browning.
- Adding Cheese Too Early. Sprinkle the cheese on at the very end, off the direct heat, and cover it. This allows it to melt gently without seizing up or burning.
Storing Tips for Cheesy Corned Beef Hash

This cheesy corned beef hash makes fantastic leftovers and is a meal prep dream.
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Let the hash cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Portion the cooled hash into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating for Best Results: The key to reviving the crisp texture is to reheat in a skillet. Warm a bit of oil or butter in a pan over medium heat, add the hash, and press it down. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes until hot and crispy on the bottom. The microwave will work in a pinch but will soften the texture.
Conclusion
This cheesy corned beef hash recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little kitchen patience. It is a versatile, forgiving dish that works for a lazy weekend brunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or a brilliant way to give leftovers new life. The creamy potatoes, savory corned beef, and melty cheese come together in a skillet to create pure comfort.
I hope this becomes a new favorite in your home, a reliable recipe you turn to again and again. Remember, the secret is in the sizzle—let that skillet work its magic. Give it a try this weekend.
I would love to hear how your cheesy corned beef hash turns out! Did you add a special twist? What is your favorite way to serve it? Let me know in the comments below, and if you share a photo, don’t forget to tag @StackSipSnack so I can see your delicious creation.
For more hearty, one-pan inspiration, check out my classic Corned Beef Hash Skillet or explore all our comforting recipes right here on Stack Sip Snack. Simple ingredients, warm memories.
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FAQs about Cheesy Corned Beef Hash
What cheese goes best with corned beef hash?
Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a smoked Gouda are excellent choices for adding a cheesy flavor to corned beef hash. These cheeses melt well and complement the savory flavors of the corned beef and potatoes.
Can I use canned corned beef for cheesy corned beef hash?
Yes, canned corned beef works perfectly well! Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to your hash. You can also use leftover cooked corned beef for an even better flavor.
What should I serve with cheesy corned beef hash?
Cheesy corned beef hash is great on its own, but serving it with a fried or poached egg on top elevates the dish. Other good sides include toast, English muffins, or a side of coleslaw.
How can I make my corned beef hash crispy?
To achieve a crispy hash, make sure your potatoes are cooked and slightly dry before adding them to the pan. Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet and avoid overcrowding the pan. Press the hash down occasionally as it cooks to encourage browning.
Can I add vegetables to my cheesy corned beef hash?
Absolutely! Onions and peppers are classic additions. You could also add mushrooms, kale, or Brussels sprouts for extra flavor and nutrition. Cook the vegetables before adding the corned beef and potatoes.
How do I store leftover cheesy corned beef hash?
Store leftover cheesy corned beef hash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of oil or water to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
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