Sunshine Skillet from Bob Evans features fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy golden hash browns, savory sausage patties, and melted cheddar cheese, all served sizzling hot in a rustic cast-iron skillet for a hearty and comforting breakfast experience.
Equipments
- Cast-iron skillet
- Spatula
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Stove or cooktop
- Plate (for serving or prepping)
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (shredded style)
- 4 pork sausage patties
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Using frozen shredded hash browns ensures a crispy texture similar to the Sunshine Skillet from Bob Evans, while whole milk in the eggs adds richness and fluffiness. Unsalted butter helps control the salt level, allowing you to adjust seasoning to your taste with salt and black pepper. Choose quality pork sausage patties to replicate the savory flavor profile accurately. Fresh parsley can be used as an optional garnish to brighten the dish. Your homemade Sunshine Skillet from Bob Evans copycat menu will offer a hearty, comforting breakfast just like the original.
Instructions
- Preheat the cast-iron skillet on the stove over medium heat.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- On a plate or cutting board, prepare sausage patties.
- Add sausage patties to the preheated skillet and cook until browned and cooked through; remove and set aside.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet.
- Add frozen hash browns to the skillet and cook until golden and crispy, stirring occasionally.
- Push hash browns to one side of the skillet.
- Add another 1 tablespoon butter to the empty side of the skillet.
- Pour in the egg mixture and scramble gently with the spatula until just set.
- Return cooked sausage patties to the skillet, nestling them among the hash browns and eggs.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over eggs, hash browns, and sausages.
- Cover skillet briefly (with a lid or foil) to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet.
Substitution
The Sunshine Skillet from Bob Evans copycat recipe allows for easy ingredient swaps to fit your preferences or pantry availability. If you don't have whole milk, you can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk, though this may slightly alter the texture of your scrambled eggs. Ground sausage can replace pork patties if you want a quicker cooking option, and fresh hash browns work well instead of frozen, just adjust cooking time for crispiness. Using a non-stick skillet instead of cast iron is possible but may affect the signature crispy edges. Finally, feel free to customize the cheese with your favorite variety to add a unique twist to your breakfast.
Tips
Ensure your cast-iron skillet is properly preheated to medium heat before adding ingredients, as this helps achieve crispy hash browns and evenly cooked sausage patties. When whisking eggs, incorporate milk thoroughly for a fluffy texture, and avoid overcooking by gently scrambling until just set to retain moisture. Use frozen shredded hash browns without thawing to get a golden, crispy exterior and stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. You can adjust seasoning based on your taste, and don't skip melting the cheese by covering the skillet briefly--this step enhances flavor and texture in your Sunshine Skillet breakfast.
Nutritions
Sunshine Skillet provides a balanced combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, with 4 large eggs and 4 pork sausage patties delivering approximately 36 grams of high-quality protein to support muscle health. The 2 cups of shredded hash browns contribute complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, providing sustained energy for your day. Whole milk and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese add calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone strength, while unsalted butter contributes saturated fats needed for hormone production. This hearty breakfast offers a nutrient-dense meal that keeps you full and energized throughout the morning.
Storage
To store your Sunshine Skillet leftovers, transfer the cooled contents into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The dish will maintain best quality for up to 3-4 days when kept chilled. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the texture of the eggs, hash browns, and sausage patties.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap pork sausage patties for turkey or chicken sausage to lighten the dish while maintaining protein content. Use diced bell peppers or onions mixed into the scrambled eggs for extra flavor and texture. Replace cheddar with pepper jack or gouda cheese for a different taste profile that melts well. Consider cooking the hash browns in a bit of olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat option that crisps them nicely.
Allergies
Your Sunshine Skillet contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy from whole milk and cheddar cheese, and pork sausage which might include wheat or soy as fillers. People with allergies to eggs, milk, or pork should exercise caution before consuming this dish. Cross-contamination risks in preparation areas could also affect those with severe allergies.
Why this recipe?
Sunshine Skillet from Bob Evans restaurant appeals to many for its hearty combination of scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and home fries, delivering a satisfying and flavorful breakfast experience. The dish balances rich, savory ingredients with the comforting taste of classic American diner fare, making it a popular choice. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy this beloved meal fresh and customized to your preferences, providing both convenience and the joy of homemade cooking. Perfecting this skillet at home can capture the warmth and quality that Bob Evans is known for, making it a worthwhile recipe to master.