Breakfast

Spam Hash (3-Ingredient)

Recipe Image 12

This three-ingredient wonder is about to become your new favorite breakfast shortcut that doesn’t taste like a shortcut at all.

The crispy, golden edges of perfectly diced Spam meet tender potatoes in a symphony of textures that’ll make you question why you ever bothered with complicated morning meals.

Fluffy scrambled eggs bind everything together into a hearty, satisfying hash that tastes like it took way more effort than the mere 35 minutes from start to finish.

The beauty lies in the simplicity – each ingredient pulls its weight, creating layers of savory, salty, and comforting flavors that hit all the right breakfast notes.

This is comfort food at its finest, delivering that “cooked all morning” taste while using ingredients you probably already have sitting in your pantry and fridge.

Get ready for the ultimate compliment: “Wait, there are only three ingredients in this?” followed immediately by “Can you make this again tomorrow?”

Ingredients

For the Hash Base

1 (12-ounce) can Spam luncheon meat
2 medium red potatoes (about 1 pound total)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

For the Eggs

5 large eggs
Freshly ground black pepper

Optional Serving Accompaniments

Kewpie mayonnaise
Ketchup
Homemade or store-bought pandesal or sliced bread, toasted or untoasted

Instructions

Preparation

1 Cut the 12-ounce can of Spam into small, uniform dice (about ½-inch pieces). Consistent sizing ensures even browning and prevents some pieces from burning while others stay pale. The key is getting those satisfying crispy edges on each cube.
2 Peel the 2 medium red potatoes and cut into small dice, matching the size of your Spam pieces. Keep the potato pieces in a bowl of cold water if you’re not cooking immediately – this prevents browning and removes excess starch for better browning later.
3 Crack 5 large eggs into a medium bowl and season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the whites and yolks are completely combined and the mixture is smooth and uniform in color.

Cooking the Spam

4 Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering. The oil should move freely across the pan and shimmer slightly – this indicates the perfect temperature for browning without burning.
5 Add the diced Spam to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on multiple sides, 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t stir too frequently – let each side develop a golden crust before moving. Transfer the browned Spam to a medium bowl and set aside.

Cooking the Potatoes

6 Add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the same skillet and heat until shimmering. The residual Spam fat will combine with the fresh oil, adding extra flavor to the potatoes.
7 Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned, 10 to 15 minutes. Reduce heat as needed if the potatoes are browning too quickly – you want them cooked through, not just browned on the outside. Test doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be completely tender.

Final Assembly

8 Return the browned Spam to the skillet with the potatoes and stir gently to combine. Let the mixture heat through for about 1 minute to marry the flavors and ensure everything is piping hot.
9 Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the entire surface of the Spam-potato mixture. Cook, stirring constantly with a silicone spatula, until the eggs are cooked through but still creamy, about 1 minute. The eggs should be set but not dry or rubbery.
10 Remove from heat immediately and serve hot with Kewpie mayonnaise, ketchup, and toasted bread if desired. The residual heat will finish cooking the eggs to perfect doneness.

Recommended Equipment and Kitchen Tools

Essential Tools (for best results)

12-inch non-stick skillet – The large surface area prevents overcrowding and ensures even browning of both Spam and potatoes. A quality non-stick surface prevents sticking during the final egg scrambling stage.
Sharp chef’s knife – Makes quick work of dicing both the Spam and potatoes into uniform pieces, which is crucial for even cooking.
Silicone spatula – Perfect for the final egg scrambling step, as it won’t scratch your non-stick pan and moves eggs gently for the creamiest texture.
Medium mixing bowls – One for the beaten eggs and another for temporarily holding the cooked Spam.

Helpful Upgrades

Cast iron skillet – If you prefer extra browning and don’t mind a bit more cleanup, cast iron develops incredible flavor and crispy edges on both the Spam and potatoes.
Kitchen scale – For perfectly consistent results, especially when scaling the recipe up or down for different crowd sizes.

Nice-to-Have Options

Bench scraper – Makes transferring diced ingredients from cutting board to pan quick and mess-free.
Instant-read thermometer – While not necessary, you can check that the internal temperature of the hash reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Recipe Variations and Dietary Modifications

Protein Variations

Bacon or ham → Substitute equal amounts of diced bacon or leftover ham for the Spam, adjusting cooking time as needed
Breakfast sausage → Use 12 ounces of cooked, crumbled breakfast sausage for a more traditional American breakfast flavor
Plant-based option → Try diced firm tofu or tempeh, seasoned with soy sauce and smoked paprika

Potato Alternatives

Sweet potatoes → Replace red potatoes with peeled, diced sweet potatoes for added nutrition and natural sweetness
Hash browns → Use 3 cups of frozen hash browns, cooking until crispy before adding the Spam back
Cauliflower rice → For low-carb version, substitute 4 cups of cauliflower rice, reducing cooking time to 5-7 minutes

Flavor Enhancements

Spicy version → Add 1 diced jalapeño with the potatoes and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the eggs
Herb-infused → Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh chives, parsley, or green onions just before serving
Cheese addition → Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack over the hash just before adding eggs

International Twists

Filipino-style → Serve with banana ketchup and garlic rice on the side
Mexican-inspired → Add diced bell peppers and onions, serve with salsa and avocado
Asian fusion → Finish with sesame oil, soy sauce, and sliced scallions

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Key Nutritional Highlights

This hearty hash delivers approximately 320-380 calories per serving when divided among 4-6 people. The combination provides a substantial 18-22 grams of protein from the Spam and eggs, making it an excellent breakfast for sustained energy. The red potatoes contribute complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the eggs provide all nine essential amino acids.

Health Benefits of Main Ingredients

Red potatoes are nutritional powerhouses, providing significant amounts of potassium (more than bananas), vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They’re also a good source of fiber when eaten with the skin, though this recipe calls for peeling. Eggs are complete proteins containing choline for brain health, lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health, and vitamin D. Even Spam, while processed, provides protein, iron, and B vitamins, particularly B12 and niacin.

Dietary Considerations

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with common food sensitivities. However, it is high in sodium due to the Spam, so those monitoring sodium intake should consider smaller portions or the plant-based variations. The dish provides a good balance of macronutrients with approximately 45% of calories from fat, 35% from carbohydrates, and 20% from protein.

Smart Swaps and Ingredient Substitutions

Spam Alternatives:

Spam → Canadian bacon (use same amount, reduce cooking time to 3-4 minutes)
Spam → Diced ham steak (12 ounces, cook until edges are crispy)
Spam → Cooked breakfast sausage (1 pound, crumbled, skip initial browning step)

Potato Substitutions:

Red potatoes → Yukon Gold potatoes (same cooking method, slightly creamier texture)
Red potatoes → Russet potatoes (may take 2-3 minutes longer to cook through)
Red potatoes → Frozen hash browns (3 cups, thaw first, reduce cooking time to 8-10 minutes)

Oil Options:

Vegetable oil → Canola oil (neutral flavor, same smoke point)
Vegetable oil → Avocado oil (higher smoke point, slightly nuttier flavor)
Vegetable oil → Bacon fat (if you have it, adds incredible flavor)

Egg Modifications:

Whole eggs → Egg whites only (use 8-10 egg whites for lower cholesterol option)
Chicken eggs → Duck eggs (use 4 duck eggs, richer flavor and color)

Pro Tips for Substitutions:

When using frozen potatoes, pat them completely dry before cooking to prevent splattering
If using lower-fat meats, you may need slightly more oil to prevent sticking

Make It Diabetes-Friendly

Carbohydrate Reduction Strategies:

Replace potatoes → Use 4 cups of diced cauliflower or turnips, reducing carbs from approximately 30g to 8g per serving
Portion control → Serve smaller portions (⅔ cup instead of 1 cup) alongside a large green salad
Add volume → Incorporate 2 cups of diced bell peppers and onions to increase fiber and reduce carb density

Enhanced Protein Options:

Increase eggs → Use 6-7 eggs instead of 5 to boost protein content and improve satiety
Add cheese → Include ½ cup of shredded cheese for additional protein and fat to slow carb absorption
Serve with → Pair with 2 tablespoons of avocado or nuts for healthy fats

Timing and Pairing Tips:

Estimated carbs per serving: 15-18g with cauliflower substitution (compared to 25-30g with potatoes)
Best meal timing: Serve as a post-workout breakfast when insulin sensitivity is higher
Pair with fiber: Add a side of sautéed spinach or kale to further slow glucose absorption
Portion awareness: Stick to ¾ cup servings and fill the rest of your plate with non-starchy vegetables

Blood Sugar Management:

The high protein and fat content helps moderate blood sugar spikes
Consider adding 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your water before eating to help with glucose metabolism

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

Beverage Pairings

Coffee is the classic choice – the rich, slightly bitter notes complement the salty, savory hash perfectly. Try a medium roast or cold brew for best results. Fresh orange juice provides a bright, acidic contrast that cuts through the richness, while tomato juice or a Bloody Mary (for weekend brunches) enhances the savory elements. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lime or iced green tea offer refreshing palate cleansers.

Side Dish Recommendations

Fresh fruit salad with pineapple, mango, and berries provides natural sweetness and acidity that balances the salty hash. Buttered toast or English muffins are traditional choices for sopping up any remaining egg. Sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli add color, nutrition, and a fresh contrast to the rich main dish. Sliced avocado with a sprinkle of lime juice and salt creates a creamy, cooling element.

Complete Meal Ideas

For a Filipino-inspired breakfast, serve with garlic fried rice and sliced tomatoes. Create an American diner experience with hash browns on the side, buttered toast, and fresh fruit. For brunch entertaining, pair with mimosas, fresh pastries, and a mixed green salad with vinaigrette.

Occasion Suggestions

Perfect for weekend family breakfasts, camping trips (easily made in a cast iron skillet over a camp stove), brunch parties, or quick weeknight dinners. The simple preparation makes it ideal for feeding crowds or meal prep situations.

Pro Tips and Troubleshooting

Professional Techniques

Don’t overcrowd the pan – if doubling the recipe, use two skillets or cook in batches. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of browning. Let ingredients develop color before stirring – patience during the browning stages creates deeper, more complex flavors. Control your heat – medium heat prevents burning while ensuring thorough cooking. Taste and adjust – add a pinch of salt if needed, though the Spam usually provides enough.

Common Mistakes and Solutions

Soggy potatoes: Pat potatoes completely dry after dicing and don’t add them to cool oil. Rubbery eggs: Remove from heat as soon as eggs look almost set – residual heat will finish cooking them. Uneven cooking: Cut all ingredients to the same size for uniform cooking. Too salty: Rinse diced Spam briefly under cold water and pat dry before cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently, or microwave in 30-second intervals. The texture is best when reheated in a pan rather than the microwave. Not recommended for freezing due to the egg content.

Make-Ahead Strategies

Dice the Spam and potatoes the night before and store separately in the refrigerator. You can even cook the Spam and potatoes completely, then just reheat and add fresh scrambled eggs when ready to serve.

Recipe Scaling

This recipe doubles or triples easily – just use proportionally larger skillets or cook in batches. For larger crowds, consider using a large electric griddle for even cooking across larger quantities.

This three-ingredient spam hash proves that the best comfort foods don’t need complicated ingredient lists or fancy techniques – just quality ingredients treated with care and attention. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weekend morning or looking for a satisfying dinner that comes together in minutes, this recipe delivers every single time with crispy, creamy, savory perfection that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.