These skillet breakfast potatoes are crispy, fluffy, and full of flavor! Just chop up some potatoes, toss them in a pan with spices, and let them sizzle until golden.
Ready in no time, they’re perfect for lazy mornings or quick brunches. I love loading mine with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese—because why not make breakfast even better, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russets provide great texture and flavor. For a quicker option, try frozen diced potatoes—just adjust the cooking time. Sweet potatoes can also be used for a different flavor profile!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. If you’re short on time, onion powder can substitute in a pinch—or use shallots for a milder taste.
Smoked Paprika: This brings a lovely smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can work too, although it won’t have the same depth. You can also try a dash of cayenne for some heat!
Bacon: While delicious, bacon isn’t necessary! Turkey bacon, sausage, or even leftover ham are good alternatives. You can skip meat altogether for a vegetarian version.
How Can I Get My Potatoes Extra Crispy?
Perfectly crispy potatoes are all about how you cook them! Here are a few tips:
- Rinse and dry the potatoes well before cooking to remove excess starch, which can make them gummy.
- Use enough oil to coat the potatoes, but don’t drown them—about 3 tablespoons is just right.
- Let them cook undisturbed for the first few minutes. This helps form that nice crust!
- Keep the heat at medium. Too high, and they’ll char outside while staying raw inside; too low, and they’ll just steam.
With these tips, your skillet breakfast potatoes will turn out crispy and tasty every time. Enjoy cooking! 😊
Skillet Breakfast Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2–3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan), for garnish
- 2 eggs (optional, cooked in the center as shown)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you can expect to spend about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious breakfast option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by rinsing the diced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain them well and pat dry with paper towels. This will help them get crispy when cooked!
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat until it shimmers. This means it’s hot enough to start cooking!
3. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes to develop a golden crust, then gently flip or stir to ensure even cooking.
4. Add Onions:
Next, add the finely chopped onions to the skillet. Cook together with the potatoes until the onions become translucent and the potatoes are starting to soften, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add Flavor:
Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the potatoes are nicely coated in spices.
6. Finish Cooking:
Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and cooked through. If you’re using bacon, stir it in now for that extra smoky flavor!
7. Optional Eggs:
If you want to add eggs, create a small well in the center of the potatoes and crack 2 eggs into it. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are done to your liking—about 3-5 minutes should give you runny yolks.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley and shredded cheese over the top for a lovely finish. Serve warm directly from the skillet for a cozy and hearty breakfast! Enjoy!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative. Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly—about 5-10 minutes should do the trick.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the bacon and eggs. You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and texture. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor if you want that twist!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them up in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. You can also microwave them, but the skillet will help retain their crispiness!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can be added along with the onions for more flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are chopped smaller so they cook evenly!
