This crispy potato egg skillet is a simple yet comforting dish made with diced potatoes, fresh green onions, melty mozzarella, and a hint of spice. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, it’s a quick and satisfying one-pan meal that comes together in minutes and leaves you full and happy.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Yield: 1–2 servings
Cuisine: European-inspired comfort food
Ingredients
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1 medium potato (200g), diced small
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1 egg
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2–3 green onions, chopped
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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A pinch of nutmeg
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50g mozzarella, grated
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Olive oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prep the Ingredients
Wash and peel the potato, then dice it into small, evenly-sized cubes—this ensures they cook quickly and crisp up well in the pan. Chop the green onions, separating the white and green parts if you prefer different textures (the white parts have more bite, while the green parts are softer and milder). -
Preheat the Pan
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil to lightly coat the base of the pan—this helps achieve golden-brown, crispy potatoes. -
Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes to develop a crispy bottom, then stir occasionally until they are golden and tender, about 10–12 minutes total. -
Season and Add Green Onions
Once the potatoes are nearly done, add the chopped green onions and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add a pinch of nutmeg, more salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavor. Nutmeg adds a warm, earthy note that pairs beautifully with both egg and potato. -
Create a Well and Add the Egg
Use a spatula to create a small well in the center of the pan. Crack the egg into the center and lower the heat slightly. Cover the pan with a lid and let the egg cook gently for about 2–3 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolk is cooked to your desired level. -
Add the Mozzarella
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over the potatoes and egg. Cover again for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the cheese melts and turns gooey. -
Serve Immediately
Remove from heat and serve directly from the skillet, or gently transfer to a plate. Garnish with extra green onions if desired. Enjoy hot!
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
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Calories: 340
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Protein: 14g
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Carbohydrates: 24g
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Fat: 21g
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Saturated Fat: 6g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 290mg
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Sugar: 1g
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dish draws inspiration from European skillet meals where humble ingredients like eggs, potatoes, and cheese are transformed into hearty comfort food. Whether it’s reminiscent of a Spanish tortilla, Swiss rösti, or a German-style pan-fried breakfast, the combination is universally loved. The skillet method keeps everything simple and rustic while maximizing flavor through pan-crisped edges and melty cheese.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Quick and easy: Minimal ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
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One-pan meal: Less mess, more flavor, and super satisfying.
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Customizable: Add other vegetables, spices, or proteins.
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Cheesy goodness: Melted mozzarella brings it all together.
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Perfect any time of day: Breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner—it fits all moods.
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Budget-friendly: Uses common ingredients found in most kitchens.
Health Benefits
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Potatoes are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber when skin-on. They also provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
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Eggs are a great source of protein, essential fats, and vitamins like B12 and choline.
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Green onions provide antioxidants, vitamin K, and folate.
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Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health.
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The use of moderate cheese offers calcium and protein while still keeping things indulgent and comforting.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve this dish with a slice of sourdough or rustic bread to soak up the yolk.
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Pair with a side salad of mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette for balance.
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Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top for creaminess.
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Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a bright finishing touch.
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For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit and orange juice for a complete spread.
Cooking Tips
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Dice the potatoes small and evenly to ensure they cook through and crisp up uniformly.
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Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet for best results and easy cleanup.
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Cook the egg covered to gently steam it and ensure perfect whites without overcooking the yolk.
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If you’re short on time, parboil the potatoes for 3–4 minutes before pan-frying.
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Adjust seasoning as needed—don’t skip the nutmeg, as it adds depth and warmth.
Variations to Try
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Add veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.
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Try a different cheese: Feta, cheddar, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.
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Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or top with sriracha or hot sauce.
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Add meat: Include cooked bacon bits, sausage crumbles, or prosciutto for extra protein.
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Herb it up: Add rosemary, thyme, or dill for aromatic flair.
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Make it vegan: Use plant-based cheese and swap the egg for tofu or chickpea flour scramble.
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Double it up: Use a larger skillet and double the ingredients for two servings.
Conclusion
This crispy potato egg skillet with mozzarella is a simple yet indulgent recipe that showcases how a few wholesome ingredients can come together to create a nourishing and flavorful dish. It’s perfect for a solo comfort meal or an easy brunch idea for two. With golden potatoes, gooey cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg, every bite delivers satisfaction. Keep this one in your weekly rotation—you won’t regret it.
FAQ
1. Can I boil the potatoes first instead of frying them raw?
Yes, you can parboil the diced potatoes for 3–5 minutes, then pan-fry to crisp them up faster.
2. Can I bake this recipe instead of cooking it on the stovetop?
Yes! Use an oven-safe skillet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until the egg is cooked through and cheese is melted.
3. What kind of potato works best for this recipe?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and crisp up beautifully.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Just omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.
5. What other cheeses can I use besides mozzarella?
Cheddar, gouda, feta, Swiss, or parmesan all work well depending on your flavor preferences.
6. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead and assemble quickly when ready to cook.
7. Can I cook more than one egg in the same pan?
Yes, just make multiple wells and ensure there’s enough space for the eggs to set without blending together.
8. Can I make this in an air fryer?
You can cook the potatoes in the air fryer first, then transfer to a skillet to finish with the egg and cheese.
9. How do I keep the potatoes from sticking?
Use enough oil and a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan, and don’t move them too much while crisping.
10. Can I add garlic or other aromatics?
Definitely! Minced garlic, shallots, or even a dash of smoked paprika can add extra flavor to the dish.