Description of this recipe:

This Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is a hearty and satisfying breakfast (or brunch, or even dinner!) that combines the comforting flavors of crispy potatoes, fluffy scrambled eggs, and melted cheese into one irresistible dish. It’s a quick, easy, and customizable recipe that’s perfect for busy mornings or when you’re craving a simple yet flavorful meal. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked potatoes, making it a great option for minimizing food waste. Think of it as the ultimate breakfast comfort food, ready in minutes and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

Why you will love this recipe:

• It’s incredibly versatile: This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients, from vegetables like bell peppers and onions to meats like sausage or bacon.
• It’s quick and easy: From start to finish, this scramble is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those mornings when you’re short on time but still want a nutritious meal.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser: The combination of potatoes, eggs, and cheese is a universally loved flavor profile, making this scramble a surefire hit with the whole family.
• It’s budget-friendly: With simple and affordable ingredients, this recipe is a great way to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
• It’s wonderfully customizable: Don’t like cheddar? Use pepper jack! Want more protein? Add some cooked sausage. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the scramble to your exact taste preferences.

Introduction

In the realm of breakfast (or anytime!) comfort food, the Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble reigns supreme. It’s the kind of dish that evokes cozy mornings, leisurely brunches, and the satisfying feeling of a warm, flavorful meal. Forget complicated recipes with long lists of ingredients – this scramble is all about simplicity, flavor, and versatility.

Think of this recipe as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. While the basic combination of potatoes, eggs, and cheese is delicious on its own, the beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. Want to add a touch of spice? Toss in some diced jalapenos. Craving a more substantial meal? Crumble in some cooked breakfast sausage or bacon. Feeling virtuous? Load it up with sauteed veggies like bell peppers, onions, and spinach.

This Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to experiment, to customize, and to create a dish that perfectly reflects your personal taste. So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to experience the ultimate breakfast (or brunch, or dinner!) indulgence. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes: The type of potato you choose will affect the final texture and flavor of the scramble. Russets will yield a slightly drier, fluffier texture, while Yukon Golds will be creamier and slightly sweeter.
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil: Butter will impart a richer flavor, while olive oil offers a healthier option with a slightly fruity note. Feel free to use a combination of both for the best of both worlds.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the potatoes and eggs. Adjust the amount to your personal preference.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a savory depth of flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic. If you prefer fresh garlic, sauté a minced clove with the potatoes.
• 4 large eggs: Use the freshest eggs possible for the best flavor and texture.
• ¼ cup milk (for extra creamy eggs): Milk adds moisture and richness to the eggs, resulting in a creamier, more luxurious scramble. You can substitute cream or half-and-half for an even richer flavor. You can also omit the milk for a firmer scramble.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or feta): Cheese is the star of the show! Cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack offers a milder flavor, pepper jack adds a kick of spice, and feta provides a tangy, salty alternative.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional): Fresh herbs add a bright, fresh finish to the scramble. Parsley offers a mild, grassy flavor, while green onions provide a slightly sharper, oniony taste. Other herbs like chives, cilantro, or dill would also work well.

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

In a large skillet (preferably non-stick) over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the olive oil. Ensure the skillet is evenly heated to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking of the potatoes. Add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir to coat the potatoes evenly with the oil and seasonings. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until the potatoes are tender and golden brown. Look for a slight crispness on the edges of the potatoes – this adds a delightful textural contrast to the scramble. If the potatoes start to stick, add a splash of water or oil to the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggs

While the potatoes are cooking, crack the eggs into a medium bowl. Add the milk to the bowl. Whisk together the eggs and milk vigorously until they are fully combined and slightly frothy. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy scramble. Over-whisking can result in tough eggs, so whisk just until the yolks and whites are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Cook the Eggs

Once the potatoes are cooked and golden brown, reduce the heat to medium-low. This lower heat will prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly and becoming dry. Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet, creating an empty space for the eggs. Pour the egg mixture into the empty side of the skillet, allowing it to cook gently. As the eggs begin to set, gently stir them occasionally with a spatula or wooden spoon, scrambling them softly. Avoid over-stirring, as this can result in small, dry pieces of egg. Cook the eggs until they are just set but still slightly moist. Remember that the eggs will continue to cook slightly from the residual heat.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, gently mix them with the potatoes in the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the egg and potato mixture. Cover the pan with a lid or a large plate. Allow the cheese to melt for 1-2 minutes. The steam trapped under the lid will help the cheese melt quickly and evenly.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and carefully uncover it. Sprinkle the fresh parsley or green onions over the top of the scramble for a burst of fresh flavor and visual appeal. Serve the Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble immediately while it’s still hot and the cheese is melted and gooey.

COOKING Rating:

• Ease: Easy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Overall: Quick, easy and delicious!

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a stand-alone breakfast or brunch dish.
• Pair with a side of toast, muffins, or fresh fruit.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a touch of spice.
• Serve as a filling for breakfast burritos or tacos.
• Serve alongside a green salad for a light and refreshing lunch.

Tips:

• For extra crispy potatoes, pre-cook them in the microwave for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the potatoes. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they brown evenly.
• Use a non-stick skillet for best results to prevent sticking.
• Adjust the amount of cheese to your personal preference.
• Add other vegetables like diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the potatoes.
• Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham to the scramble for extra protein.
• Use different types of cheese for a variety of flavors.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chili powder for a touch of color and spice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information: (approximate, may vary based on specific ingredients and portion size)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 500mg

Conclusion

The Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients, comforting flavors, and culinary creativity. It’s a dish that can be adapted to suit any taste or occasion, from a quick and easy weekday breakfast to a leisurely weekend brunch. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal every time. So go ahead, experiment with different ingredients, and make this Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble your own! Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen diced potatoes for this recipe! It can save you a lot of prep time. Just be sure to thaw them slightly before adding them to the skillet. If they are too frozen, they might release excess water and make the scramble soggy. Also, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen potatoes tend to take a bit longer to brown.

Q2: What other cheeses would work well in this scramble?

A: The cheese possibilities are endless! Besides cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, and feta, you could try:

• Mozzarella: Provides a mild, creamy flavor and excellent meltability.
• Gruyere: Offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
• Parmesan: Adds a salty, umami-rich flavor.
• Havarti: Has a buttery, smooth texture.
• Gouda: Provides a sweet and nutty flavor that complements the potatoes and eggs beautifully.

Feel free to mix and match different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile!

Q3: How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: This recipe is inherently vegetarian! To keep it that way, just make sure you’re using a vegetarian-friendly cheese (some cheeses are made with animal rennet). To boost the veggie power, add in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or onions along with the potatoes.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While this Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is best enjoyed fresh, you can definitely prepare the potatoes ahead of time. Cook the diced potatoes according to the recipe instructions, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to make the scramble, simply reheat the potatoes in the skillet and proceed with the recipe as directed. Be aware that the texture might change slightly when reheated, but it will still be delicious. Reheating fully assembled scrambles are not recommended.

Q5: How can I make this recipe spicier?

A: There are several ways to add a kick to your Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble:

• Add diced jalapenos or serrano peppers: These can be sautéed with the potatoes or sprinkled on top of the finished scramble.
• Use pepper jack cheese: This cheese is infused with jalapenos for a spicy, cheesy flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes: Sprinkle these into the skillet along with the salt and pepper.
• Drizzle with hot sauce: A classic way to add heat!
• Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture: This will evenly distribute the spice throughout the scramble.

Adjust the amount of spice to your personal preference.