Skillet Breakfast Potatoes are a tasty way to start your day! With crispy edges and soft centers, these potatoes are packed with flavor. Seasoned with herbs and spices, they’re the breakfast hero!
Who can resist the smell of potatoes sizzling in a skillet? I love adding a bit of cheese on top right before serving—it’s a simple twist that makes them even better! 🥔🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great because they get crispy outside while staying fluffy inside. You can substitute with Yukon Gold for a creamier texture, or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
Onion: I enjoy using yellow or sweet onions for their mild flavor. Red onion works if you want a bit more color and sweetness. Feel free to use shallots for a subtle garlic flavor.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth, but if unavailable, regular paprika or even cayenne can work. If you’re not into heat, leave out the chili powder and use more paprika instead!
Eggs: You can skip the eggs if you prefer a vegan version or use tofu instead for a scramble effect. If you like your eggs fluffy, try making them scrambled in a separate pan!
Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese is optional, but I love cheddar or Monterey Jack for their meltiness and flavor. For a twist, use feta or goat cheese for a tangy bite.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Crispy?
Getting those crispy, golden potatoes is simple with some key steps. Start by rinsing your diced potatoes to remove starch, which helps them crisp up better. Then, make sure you dry them well; excess moisture leads to steaming, not frying!
- Cook the potatoes in a single layer and avoid stirring too much at first; this allows them to brown nicely.
- Using a cast-iron or heavy skillet is ideal as it holds the heat well, promoting even cooking.
- Give them time—patience is key! Cook on medium heat, and don’t rush the process to achieve the perfect texture.
Skillet Breakfast Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for a mild kick)
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack), for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 20-25 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 40-45 minutes to prepare these delicious Skillet Breakfast Potatoes. It’s quick and a perfect way to start your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by rinsing the diced potatoes under cold water to get rid of any excess starch. After rinsing, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure they get crispy when cooked!
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large cast-iron or heavy skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This type of skillet helps to cook the potatoes evenly.
3. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to allow one side to brown nicely. After that, stir them up and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden, crispy, and tender all around.
4. Add Flavor:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
5. Seasoning Time:
Now sprinkle the smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), ground cumin, salt, and pepper over the potatoes. Stir everything well to make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the delicious spices!
6. Add the Eggs:
Make two little wells among the potatoes and carefully crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still runny. If you prefer your eggs more cooked, just leave them on a little longer!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the eggs are done to your liking, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro and, if you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the hot potatoes.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your Skillet Breakfast Potatoes hot, right from the skillet. They make for a wonderful, hearty breakfast treat everyone will love!
Enjoy the crispy, flavorful potatoes paired with perfectly cooked eggs—a satisfying morning skillet!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes give a nice crispy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold for a creamier bite or even sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of potato.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to moisten.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Just skip the eggs or substitute them with tofu, scrambly style, and use a dairy-free cheese option if you’d like. The potatoes and spices remain delicious even without eggs!
What Can I Serve with Skillet Breakfast Potatoes?
These potatoes are great on their own, but you can pair them with bacon, sausage, or toast. A side of fresh fruit or a green salad works well too for a balanced breakfast!
