Breakfast Potatoes Recipe (with Video)

Breakfast Potatoes Recipe: Breakfast potatoes are the unsung heroes of morning meals. Whether you’re craving something hearty, crispy, or bursting with flavor, these versatile spuds have got you covered.

They’re a staple side dish that pairs beautifully with eggs, bacon, or even a stack of pancakes. This recipe is a foolproof way to master breakfast potatoes and make your mornings a little more delicious.

Ingredients for Breakfast Potatoes

To make the best breakfast potatoes, you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Optional Add-Ons:

• Chopped bell peppers
• Sliced onions
• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives
• Grated cheese for extra indulgence

Substitutions:

• Sweet potatoes for a healthier twist
• Avocado oil or coconut oil for unique flavor profiles

Tools You’ll Need

• A sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Large skillet or sheet pan
• Spatula or tongs
• Parchment paper for baking (optional)

Prepping the Potatoes

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for crispiness, while Yukon Gold provides a creamier texture.
2. Wash and Peel: Thoroughly wash the potatoes to remove dirt. You can peel them for a cleaner taste or leave the skin on for extra texture.
3. Cut Into Cubes: Dice the potatoes into even cubes, roughly 1-inch in size, for uniform cooking. Smaller cubes get crispier, while larger ones remain fluffy inside.

Seasoning the Potatoes

• Make the Spice Blend: Mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano in a small bowl.
• Toss for Even Coverage: Place the cubed potatoes in a mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle the spice mix evenly. Toss until every cube is well-coated.
• Customize to Taste: Add chili flakes for heat or lemon zest for a citrusy kick.

Cooking Methods

Pan-Frying:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Spread the potatoes in an even layer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
• Reduce heat to medium if they brown too quickly.

Baking:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Air Fryer:

• Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Step-by-Step Instructions

For Pan-Frying:

1. Heat your skillet on medium-high heat and add oil. Wait until the oil shimmers—this ensures the potatoes won’t stick.
2. Add the seasoned potatoes in a single layer. Overcrowding leads to steaming, which makes them soggy.
3. Stir occasionally, but allow some sides to sit longer for a golden crust.
4. Test doneness by poking a potato cube with a fork—it should slide in easily.

For Baking:

1. Spread the potatoes on the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap.
2. Bake on the middle rack for even heat distribution.
3. Flip the potatoes halfway through using a spatula to ensure uniform crispiness.
4. Serve hot with fresh herbs sprinkled on top for an extra burst of flavor.

For Air Frying:

1. Place the potatoes in a single layer for best results.
2. Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to prevent sticking.
3. For an extra crispy finish, increase the temperature by 10°F during the last 3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast potatoes are a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of foods:

• Classic Combos: Scrambled or fried eggs, crispy bacon, and toast.
• Healthy Pairings: Avocado slices, grilled tomatoes, or steamed vegetables.
• Brunch Favorites: Serve alongside waffles, pancakes, or breakfast casseroles.

Presentation tip: Use a cast iron skillet for serving, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Variations of Breakfast Potatoes

• Cheesy Breakfast Potatoes: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the last few minutes of cooking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
• Spicy Version: Mix in chopped jalapeños or sprinkle cayenne pepper for an added kick.
• Herb-Infused Potatoes: Toss with fresh rosemary, thyme, or dill for a fragrant twist.
• Loaded Potatoes: Top with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and scallions for a hearty meal.

Tips for Perfect Breakfast Potatoes Every Time

Achieving Crispy Texture:

• Dry the potatoes thoroughly after washing. Excess water creates steam and prevents crispiness.
• Avoid overcrowding during cooking to maintain airflow around the potatoes.

Avoiding Sogginess:

• If baking, preheat your oven for at least 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
• Toss potatoes with just enough oil to coat but not soak them.

Even Cooking:

• Cut all cubes uniformly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Flip or stir the potatoes halfway through any cooking process.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storage Tips:

• Store cooked breakfast potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Avoid freezing as it can alter the texture.

Reheating Methods:

• In a skillet: Heat over medium heat with a drizzle of oil for 5-7 minutes.
• In an oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• In an air fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes for a quick refresh.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: ~180
• Carbohydrates: ~25g
• Protein: ~3g
• Fats: ~6g
• Adjust the recipe to suit low-carb or low-fat diets by substituting sweet potatoes or reducing oil.

FAQs about Breakfast Potatoes Recipe

What are the best potatoes for making breakfast potatoes?

The best potatoes for breakfast potatoes are typically those that hold their shape well and have a nice, crispy texture when cooked. Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are popular choices due to their starchy content and ability to brown nicely.

How can I make my breakfast potatoes extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispy breakfast potatoes, ensure your potatoes are dry before cooking. Soak cut potatoes in water to remove excess starch, then dry them thoroughly. Cooking them in a hot pan with enough oil and not overcrowding the pan will also help them crisp up perfectly.

Can I add other vegetables to my breakfast potatoes?

Absolutely! Breakfast potatoes are versatile. Feel free to add onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach to add extra flavor and nutrition to your dish.

Are breakfast potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, potatoes are naturally gluten-free. However, be mindful of cross-contamination if you are cooking in a kitchen where gluten-containing products are also prepared.

What seasonings work well with breakfast potatoes?

Classic seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. For a herby flavor, consider adding rosemary or thyme. If you like a bit of heat, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños works great.

Can I make breakfast potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook breakfast potatoes ahead of time and reheat them. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until they are hot and crispy again.

Conclusion

Breakfast potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. They’re simple to make, endlessly versatile, and a surefire way to elevate your breakfast or brunch spread. Whether pan-fried, baked, or air-fried, these spuds deliver on both flavor and texture every single time. Why settle for boring breakfasts when you can whip up these irresistible potatoes in a few easy steps? Give this recipe a try and make every morning a little more special.