Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble
Description: This Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines tender potatoes, fluffy scrambled eggs, and melted cheddar cheese into a delicious one-pan meal. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a quick and easy dinner.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Comfort Food at Its Finest: This scramble is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of potatoes, eggs, and cheese is warm, satisfying, and nostalgic.
- Quick and Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and simple cooking steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings.
- Highly Customizable: This recipe is a blank canvas! Add your favorite veggies, meats, or cheeses to create a scramble that perfectly suits your taste.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with inexpensive pantry staples, this dish is a delicious and economical way to feed your family.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! This recipe cooks entirely in one skillet, making it a lifesaver for busy cooks.
Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of warm, cheesy potatoes and fluffy scrambled eggs. This Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble takes those classic flavors and elevates them into a complete meal that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast to fuel your morning, a hearty brunch to share with friends, or a comforting dinner after a long day, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which you likely already have on hand, and it can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences and whatever ingredients you have in your fridge. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and meats to create your own unique version of this beloved scramble.
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it’s an invitation to create a warm, comforting, and satisfying meal that brings joy to your table. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cooked ham or bacon, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions or chives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by boiling the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water. This step is crucial for ensuring that the potatoes are tender and cook evenly in the skillet. The salted water seasons the potatoes from the inside out, enhancing their flavor. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This means that a fork can easily pierce through the potato without resistance. Once they are cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander and set them aside to allow any excess water to evaporate. This will help them crisp up nicely in the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. The butter adds richness and flavor to the dish while also preventing the potatoes from sticking to the pan. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the boiled potatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes become golden brown and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This step is important for developing a delicious texture and flavor in the potatoes.
Step 3: Add Meat (Optional)
If you’re using cooked ham or bacon, add it to the skillet along with the potatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the meat is heated through. This adds a savory and protein-rich element to the scramble. You can use leftover ham, crumbled bacon, or even diced sausage.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. The milk adds richness and helps to create a light and fluffy texture in the scrambled eggs. Be sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the eggs are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Scramble the Eggs
Pour the egg mixture over the potatoes in the skillet. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that the eggs are evenly distributed among the potatoes. Allow the eggs to cook and scramble with the potatoes, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the eggs are cooked to your preference.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Melt
Once the eggs are fully cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the scramble. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat and allow the cheese to melt quickly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, gooey, and bubbly. The melted cheese adds a creamy and decadent element to the dish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions or chives before serving. The green onions or chives add a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color to the finished dish. Serve the Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble warm and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a complete breakfast or brunch.
- Serve with a side of toast, muffins, or biscuits.
- Serve with a fresh fruit salad or a side of yogurt.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea.
Tips:
- For extra crispy potatoes, pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the skillet.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the potatoes in batches if necessary to ensure they brown evenly.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the eggs from sticking and making cleanup easier.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approximate):
- Calories: 350-450
- Protein: 20-25g
- Sodium: 400-600mg
(Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
The Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with a little love and care, can create a truly exceptional dish. This recipe is not only delicious and satisfying but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your own personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, easy, and comforting meal, look no further than this Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble. It’s the perfect way to start your day, fuel your afternoon, or enjoy a relaxing evening. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color to the dish. Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes may cook slightly faster than regular potatoes, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: What other cheeses can I use besides cheddar?
A: The possibilities are endless! Swiss, pepper jack, mozzarella, Gruyere, or even feta cheese would all be delicious in this scramble. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time during cooking. However, it’s best to cook the eggs fresh for the best texture and flavor. You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat them in the microwave or skillet.
Q4: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. Simply omit the ham or bacon to make it a meat-free meal. You can also add more vegetables to make it even more nutritious.
Q5: Can I add a sauce to this scramble?
A: Absolutely! A drizzle of hot sauce, a dollop of sour cream, or a spoonful of salsa would all be delicious additions to this scramble. You could also add a creamy cheese sauce or a tangy hollandaise sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cooked ham or bacon chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions or chives chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Begin by boiling the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water. This step is crucial for ensuring that the potatoes are tender and cook evenly in the skillet. The salted water seasons the potatoes from the inside out, enhancing their flavor. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This means that a fork can easily pierce through the potato without resistance. Once they are cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander and set them aside to allow any excess water to evaporate. This will help them crisp up nicely in the skillet.
- Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. The butter adds richness and flavor to the dish while also preventing the potatoes from sticking to the pan. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the boiled potatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes become golden brown and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This step is important for developing a delicious texture and flavor in the potatoes.
- Step 3: Add Meat (Optional)
- If you’re using cooked ham or bacon, add it to the skillet along with the potatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the meat is heated through. This adds a savory and protein-rich element to the scramble. You can use leftover ham, crumbled bacon, or even diced sausage.
- Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. The milk adds richness and helps to create a light and fluffy texture in the scrambled eggs. Be sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the eggs are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Scramble the Eggs
- Pour the egg mixture over the potatoes in the skillet. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that the eggs are evenly distributed among the potatoes. Allow the eggs to cook and scramble with the potatoes, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the eggs are cooked to your preference.
- Step 6: Add Cheese and Melt
- Once the eggs are fully cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the scramble. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat and allow the cheese to melt quickly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, gooey, and bubbly. The melted cheese adds a creamy and decadent element to the dish.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions or chives before serving. The green onions or chives add a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color to the finished dish. Serve the Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble warm and enjoy!
