These skillet breakfast potatoes are crispy, golden, and full of flavor! With just a few ingredients like potatoes, onions, and spices, they come together easily to make your morning brighter.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of cooking potatoes? I love pairing them with eggs for a complete breakfast. Plus, they’re perfect for leftovers—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They hold their shape well and become nice and crispy. You can substitute sweet potatoes for a sweeter version or even use frozen hash browns if you’re short on time!
Olive Oil: This is my favorite cooking oil for flavor, but you can use vegetable oil or even butter if you want a richer taste. Each will give the potatoes a different flavor profile.
Red Bell Pepper: Fresh red bell pepper adds color and sweetness. You can swap it for green bell peppers, or any other color, or even add some sautéed onions for extra flavor!
Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella is perfect, but feel free to use whatever cheese you love! Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist, while pepper jack will give it a nice kick.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, pay special attention to how you cook the potatoes. Start with medium heat and don’t overcrowd the skillet; this ensures they crisp up instead of steam.
- First, make sure the oil is hot before adding the potatoes; it should shimmer.
- Let the potatoes cook without stirring too often, allowing a nice crust to form.
- Don’t hesitate to increase the heat a bit towards the end to get them extra crispy, but keep an eye on them!
How to Make Skillet Breakfast Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
For the Eggs:
- 3 large eggs
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this delicious dish is about 25-30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 15-20 minutes cooking them to golden crisp perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying way to start your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough for frying, so it should shimmer a bit when it’s ready.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Stir them occasionally and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for that lovely golden color and tender texture!
3. Add the Peppers and Seasonings:
Once the potatoes start browning, stir in the chopped red bell pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring now and then. The aim is for the peppers to soften and the potatoes to get nice and crispy around the edges.
4. Create Wells for the Eggs:
With the back of a spoon, make three small wells evenly spaced in the mixture of potatoes and peppers. This is where your eggs will go!
5. Add the Eggs:
Carefully crack an egg into each well you created. Be gentle so you don’t get shell pieces in your dish!
6. Sprinkle with Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the potatoes and eggs. This will melt beautifully while everything cooks.
7. Cover and Cook:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny, which should take about 5 minutes. If you like your yolks firmer, cook them a bit longer.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve right away and enjoy your hearty, flavorful skillet breakfast potatoes with eggs!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great choices, but you can also use sweet potatoes for a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of potato.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
You can easily make this recipe vegan by omitting the eggs and cheese. Instead, try adding some sliced avocado or a tofu scramble for protein and creaminess!
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes! You can dice the potatoes and chop the veggies the night before. Store them in the fridge to save time in the morning. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
What Can I Serve With Skillet Breakfast Potatoes?
These potatoes are delicious on their own, but they pair great with a side of fresh fruit, a simple salad, or even toast if you’re feeling extra hungry!
