Surprise Potato and Broccoli Skillet

This potato and broccoli skillet is a showstopper that will have your guests begging for the recipe! With a medley of potatoes, mushrooms, and crab sticks, all topped with cheese and a creamy garlic sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and textures. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 10 minutes and no oven required!

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 egg
  • 800g (28 ounces) potatoes, peeled and grated
  • 1 small broccoli, cut into small pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for potatoes)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 200g (7 ounces) mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for mushrooms and onion)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 100g (3.5 ounces) cheddar cheese, grated (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 200g (7 ounces) crab sticks, chopped
  • Fresh spring onions, chopped
  • 50g (1.8 ounces) cheddar cheese, grated (for topping)
  • 4 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 3 cornichons (small pickles), finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • A bunch of fresh dill, chopped
  • A bunch of fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Potatoes and Broccoli:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped broccoli, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 beaten egg. Mix well.
    • Add the paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, and 4 tablespoons of flour. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated.
  2. Cook the Potato and Broccoli Mixture:
    • Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the potato and broccoli mixture to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Press down with a spatula to compact it slightly.
    • Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions:
    • In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper to taste. Cook until the onions are soft and the mushrooms are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Assemble the Dish:
    • Spread the sautéed mushrooms and onions over the cooked potato and broccoli base.
    • Sprinkle 100g of grated cheddar cheese over the top.
    • Add the chopped crab sticks and fresh spring onions evenly over the cheese.
    • Top with the remaining 50g of grated cheddar cheese.
  5. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, finely chopped cornichons, minced garlic, chopped dill, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
  6. Serve:
    • Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the assembled potato and broccoli skillet.
    • Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
    • Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve this dish with a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Tips:

  • Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes before cooking to ensure a crispy texture.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of garlic or paprika.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Potatoes: A good source of potassium and vitamin C, providing energy and fiber.
  • Broccoli: Rich in vitamins K and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
  • Mushrooms: Low in calories and packed with nutrients like selenium and B vitamins.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free sour cream.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Storage:

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • This dish is packed with flavor and textures, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
  • It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests.
  • The combination of crispy potatoes, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce makes it irresistible.

Conclusion: This potato and broccoli skillet is a crowd-pleaser that will have your guests asking for the recipe. With its delicious mix of crispy potatoes, savory vegetables, and a rich garlic sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it out and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s ready in just 10 minutes!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use different vegetables?
    • Yes, feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.
  2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    • Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, gouda, or your favorite cheese in place of cheddar.
  3. What can I use instead of crab sticks?
    • You can substitute crab sticks with cooked shrimp, chicken, or even leave them out for a vegetarian option.
  4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
  5. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
    • It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions of the cooked potato and broccoli base. Reheat in a skillet before adding the toppings.
  6. How do I keep the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?
    • Make sure the skillet is well-oiled and preheated before adding the potato mixture.
  7. Can I make the sauce spicier?
    • Yes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for a kick.
  8. Can I omit the flour?
    • The flour helps bind the potato mixture, but you can try using a gluten-free or grain-free alternative.
  9. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
    • You can use dried herbs instead, adjusting the quantity to taste.
  10. How can I make this dish lower in calories?
    • Use a low-fat cheese, reduce the amount of oil, and use light sour cream and mayonnaise in the sauce.