This Breakfast Skillet is a hearty mix of crispy potatoes, eggs, and your favorite veggies. It’s perfect for starting your day with a flavor-packed punch!
Making this dish is like a big morning hug! I love tossing in whatever veggies I have lying around, making it a fun surprise each time. Who doesn’t love breakfast, right? 😊
Cooking it all in one pan makes cleanup a breeze. I usually serve it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—because cheese makes everything better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: For this dish, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Their creamy texture works well. If you’re in a pinch, sweet potatoes can be a healthy alternative, adding a nice sweetness and extra nutrients.
Bell Peppers: You can use any color of bell peppers! Red and yellow are sweeter, while green is a bit more tart. If you have no peppers, you can skip them or use zucchini or mushrooms for an earthy touch.
Breakfast Sausage/Bacon: I love the flavor of crumbled breakfast sausage, but you can use turkey sausage or even omit the meat for a vegetarian version. Feel free to substitute with cooked ham or leftover chicken as well!
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar adds a nice zing, you could substitute with mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder flavor. Or mix cheeses for an extra gooey result!
Eggs: I suggest using large eggs, but if you’re watching cholesterol, egg whites or a combination of whole eggs and whites can work too. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they set perfectly.
How Do You Get Crispy, Golden Potatoes?
Crispy potatoes can really elevate your breakfast skillet. Start with dry, diced potatoes; excess moisture can hold them back. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding them, and don’t overcrowd the skillet.
- Heat the olive oil in the skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the potatoes and don’t stir too often—let them sit for a couple of minutes to develop a golden crust before turning.
- Season them well with salt and pepper; this helps bring out their flavor.
- If they’re not browning, adjust your heat slightly but avoid cooking them too fast.
How to Make a Delicious Breakfast Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or a mix)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This breakfast skillet recipe takes about 40 minutes total. You have around 10-15 minutes of prep time and about 25 minutes of cooking time, including baking. It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready when it’s time to bake your skillet!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced potatoes. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and golden brown. You want them crispy on the outside and soft on the inside!
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced bell peppers and onion into the skillet with the potatoes. Keep cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and flavorful.
4. Mix in the Meat:
Now it’s time to add your cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon. Stir everything together until well combined. The aroma will be amazing!
5. Create Wells for Eggs:
With a spatula, make four small wells in the potato mixture. Carefully crack an egg into each well. Don’t worry if a little egg white spills over; it adds to the yumminess!
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire skillet. Make it as cheesy as you like!
7. Bake the Skillet:
Now, it’s time to transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the goal is to have the eggs set to your preference (runny or firm) and the cheese melted perfectly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it will be hot!), and garnish your beautiful breakfast skillet with some freshly chopped parsley. Serve it up immediately and enjoy a hearty breakfast with your family or friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet or Yukon gold potatoes work great, you can also use red or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so check for tenderness as you go.
What Can I Substitute for Breakfast Sausage or Bacon?
If you prefer a meatless option, try using cooked and crumbled tempeh or mushrooms for a hearty texture. You could also use turkey sausage or ham if you’re looking to cut down on fat. Just ensure any substitute is cooked before adding it to the skillet for the best flavor.
Can I Make This Skillet Ahead of Time?
You can prep the potato and vegetable mixture a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the skillet, then create the wells for the eggs, sprinkle cheese, and bake as usual. This will save you time in the morning!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove. You might want to crack a fresh egg on top and bake it again for a delightful finish!
