This Creamy Potato and Egg Skillet is a warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying dish made with everyday ingredients like potatoes, eggs, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and spring onions. Gently cooked in one pan over low heat, it turns into a soft, flavorful, and cheesy bake that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. With a prep style that’s effortless and ingredients that are humble yet indulgent, this dish hits all the right notes for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
This recipe is inspired by the comforting flavors of traditional German and Central European cooking, where hearty potato-based dishes and egg casseroles are everyday staples. Its creamy interior, golden cheesy crust, and burst of freshness from green onions make it a go-to for cozy meals at home—especially when served with a side salad for contrast.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: 55–60 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Cuisine: German-inspired / Central European
Ingredients
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4 medium potatoes (about 800g), peeled and sliced
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4 eggs
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1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
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3 tablespoons sour cream
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4–5 spring onions, sliced
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100g (3.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
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1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)
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Black pepper, to taste
Optional Side Salad
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120g ham, chopped
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3–4 canned pineapple slices, chopped
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100g cheese, grated
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin, even rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. This helps ensure they cook through evenly in the skillet. Rinse the slices in cold water to remove excess starch and drain thoroughly.
2. Make the egg mixture
In a mixing bowl, crack the 4 eggs. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 3 tablespoons of sour cream, and half of the chopped spring onions. Beat everything together until smooth and creamy.
3. Grease and layer the pan
Grease a medium-sized nonstick or cast-iron skillet with the butter. Spread a layer of sliced potatoes across the bottom of the pan. Pour a portion of the egg mixture over the potatoes. Repeat with more layers until all ingredients are used.
4. Add cheese and seasonings
Sprinkle a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of black pepper on top of each layer. Save some cheese and spring onions for the final topping.
5. Cook gently
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium-low heat for 45–50 minutes. The eggs will slowly set, and the cheese will melt into the potatoes, creating a rich, tender texture.
6. Final touch
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining spring onions and cheese on top. Cover again and finish cooking until everything is golden and bubbly.
7. Prepare the optional salad
In a bowl, combine chopped ham, pineapple pieces, grated cheese, and a spoonful of mayonnaise. Mix well and chill until ready to serve.
8. Serve
Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve hot, with the salad on the side if using.
Nutritional Information (per serving without salad)
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Calories: 310
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Protein: 12g
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Fat: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 520mg
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Vitamin A: 10% DV
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Vitamin C: 25% DV
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Calcium: 20% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This skillet recipe reflects a strong connection to traditional German and Central European cooking, where potatoes are foundational and sour cream adds depth to savory dishes. Similar in spirit to German “Bauernfrühstück” or farmer’s breakfast, this dish evolves the idea into something more modern and layered, with a silky texture from the egg and cream and a golden, cheesy top.
Its popularity comes from its simplicity and adaptability—no oven required, no expensive ingredients, and it works beautifully for any time of day. The method also suits those who want hearty food with minimal cleanup.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy one-pan method – Simple and perfect for beginners
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Comforting and nourishing – Rich, warm, and filling
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Great for meal prep – Make ahead and reheat easily
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Crowd-pleaser – Everyone loves eggs, cheese, and potatoes
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Versatile – Easily adapted with whatever veggies or cheeses you have
Health Benefits
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Eggs provide high-quality protein, B12, and essential amino acids
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Potatoes are rich in fiber, potassium, and Vitamin C
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Sour cream adds probiotics and calcium
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Parmesan is packed with calcium and umami flavor, so a little goes a long way
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Spring onions are high in antioxidants and boost immunity
This dish balances protein, fat, and complex carbs, making it suitable for sustained energy and satiety. It’s particularly nourishing in cooler seasons or for physically active people.
Serving Suggestions
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With crusty bread or warm rye rolls
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Topped with herbs like chives, parsley, or dill
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With a fresh green salad or cucumber-dill salad
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With a tangy dressing or yogurt-garlic dip
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As a brunch centerpiece with fruit and tea on the side
Cooking Tips
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Use a mandoline for perfect potato slices
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Cover tightly to trap moisture and ensure even cooking
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Adjust seasoning after tasting the first cooked wedge
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Don’t rush – low and slow heat creates the best texture
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Use a spatula to gently release the edges before flipping or cutting
Variations to Try
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Add bacon or ham for a meatier version
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Include other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini
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Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes
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Try different cheeses like Emmental, gouda, or even feta
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Bake it in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 35–40 minutes instead of stovetop
Conclusion
This Creamy Potato and Egg Skillet is the kind of dish that brings people together. It’s simple, unpretentious, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this one-pan wonder delivers every time.
Serve it for breakfast, dinner, or anytime in between. Pair it with a crisp salad or a spoonful of sour cream, and you’ve got a full, balanced, and beautiful meal.
10 Comprehensive FAQ
1. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold work best, but russet or red potatoes also do well.
2. What kind of skillet should I use?
A non-stick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet is ideal to prevent sticking.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge and can be reheated on the stove or in the oven.
4. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, but the texture may become slightly softer after freezing. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
5. What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can use plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche as a substitute.
6. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based sour cream and cheese alternative.
7. How can I make it more filling?
Add cooked sausage, lentils, or even cooked quinoa to the mix.
8. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Peas, spinach, or leeks are great additions.
9. What can I serve it with?
It’s great with salads, pickles, a light soup, or roasted veggies.
10. Is this kid-friendly?
Very! Its mild, cheesy flavor is a big hit with kids, especially when served with ketchup or a yogurt dip.