The Whole Hog Recipe

Cook bacon

Place a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add bacon strips in a single layer and cook 4–6 minutes per side, or until crisp to your preference. Use tongs to transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet (discard excess or save for potatoes).

Cook sausage

Using the same skillet with reserved bacon fat (or add 1 tsp oil if needed), add the sausage links or patties. Cook over medium heat 4–6 minutes per side for links (cut to check doneness) or 3–4 minutes per side for patties, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Transfer to plate and keep warm.

Warm ham & melt cheese

In the same skillet over medium-low heat, lay the ham slices for about 30–60 seconds per side to warm and lightly caramelize. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the hot ham or on a separate warm plate with ham on top so cheese begins to soften. Remove from heat and keep warm while preparing potatoes and toast/fruit.

Breakfast potatoes (pan-fried diced)

If using diced potatoes: heat 1 tbs oil and 2 tsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the diced potatoes and optional diced onion in a single layer. Let cook undisturbed 4–5 minutes to get a golden crust, then stir or flip and continue to cook another 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and browned. Season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Reduce heat to low and keep warm.

Hash browns (shredded)

If using shredded hash browns: squeeze excess moisture from shredded potatoes (if fresh). Heat 1 tbs oil and 2 tsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add shredded potatoes in an even layer and press down with a spatula. Cook undisturbed 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp on the bottom. Flip in sections (or invert onto a plate and slide back into pan) and cook another 4–6 minutes until crisp and cooked through. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper and keep warm.

Toast

Toast the 2 slices of bread in a toaster or in a skillet until golden and crisp to your liking. Spread with 1 tbs butter while warm.

Fresh fruit (alternative)

If choosing fruit instead, wash and slice or portion 1 cup of mixed fresh fruit and place in a small bowl. Chill briefly if desired.

Arrange components on a plate: 3 bacon strips, 3 sausage links or patties, and 3 slices of warmed ham topped or sided by the melted cheddar. Add a generous portion (about 1–2 cups) of the chosen potatoes or hash browns to the plate. Place buttered toast or 1 cup fresh fruit on the side.

Garnish the potatoes and meat with chopped chives or parsley if using. Serve immediately while hot. Offer ketchup, hot sauce, or mustard on the side if desired.