Start your day right with a hearty and satisfying Breakfast Skillet! This one-pan wonder combines crispy bacon, tender potatoes, savory onions, and perfectly cooked eggs, all topped with melted Cheddar cheese.
It’s a complete and delicious meal that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for a family breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, this skillet meal is sure to become a new favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for a Perfect Breakfast Skillet
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a wholesome and flavorful breakfast skillet.
- 4 slices bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 russet potatoes, scrubbed, chopped into 3/4-inch cubes
- ¼ cup water
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Crafting Your Breakfast Skillet: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple instructions to prepare a delicious and satisfying breakfast skillet.
Step 1:
Gather all ingredients.
Step 2:
Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels; reserve most of the bacon fat in the skillet.
Step 3:
Reduce heat to medium. Cook and stir onion in reserved bacon fat until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Add potatoes; toss to coat evenly in bacon fat. Pour in water and cover the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Step 4:
Mix in green onions, garlic, and paprika. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Make 4 wells in potato mixture using a wooden spoon, revealing the bottom of the skillet.
Step 5:
Crack an egg into each well. Season eggs with kosher salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese.
Step 6:
Cover and cook until egg whites are set and yolks are still runny, about 5 minutes. Serve and enjoy!
Your Breakfast Skillet Questions Answered!
Can I customize the vegetables in my breakfast skillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before adding the eggs.
What kind of potatoes work best for a breakfast skillet?
Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which crisps up nicely while remaining tender inside. You can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, adjusting cooking time as needed.
How can I make this breakfast skillet vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to cook the onions and potatoes. You can also add plant-based sausage or extra vegetables.
Can I prepare parts of this skillet meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop the potatoes and onions the night before. Cooked bacon can also be prepared in advance and reheated when ready to assemble the skillet.
What are some good serving suggestions for this breakfast skillet?
This skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of toast, fresh fruit, or a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Pro Tips for Your Best Breakfast Skillet
- Even Potato Cubes: Cut your potatoes into uniform 3/4-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and at the same rate.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re making a larger batch, consider using two skillets or cooking in batches to avoid steaming the ingredients instead of browning them.
- Perfect Eggs: For firmer yolks, cook the eggs for an extra minute or two. For runnier yolks, reduce the cooking time slightly.
- Cheese Choice: While Cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives before serving can add a burst of color and freshness.
