Cheesy Potato Skillet Recipe

If you love crispy, cheesy potatoes, this Cheesy Potato Skillet is a must-try! This dish is the perfect combination of crispy golden potatoes, melted cheese, and savory flavors, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to accompany your main course or a comforting breakfast, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious.

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Ingredients

• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more, depending on your preference)
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra meltiness)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Spatula or spoon
• Grater for cheese
• Measuring spoons and cups

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Method

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Cube the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes (or leave the skins on for extra texture) and cut them into 1/2-inch cubes. The smaller the cubes, the quicker they will cook and get crispy.
2. Parboil the Potatoes (Optional, but recommended): For extra tender potatoes and to speed up the cooking process, you can parboil the potatoes. To do this, place the cubed potatoes into a pot of boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are just slightly tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, preferably a cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Once the oil is hot, add the cubed potatoes. Spread them out in an even layer, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to allow them to form a crispy golden crust. Stir and flip the potatoes every few minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, which should take around 15-20 minutes.
3. Add the Onion and Garlic: Once the potatoes are nearly crispy, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Butter

1. Melt the Butter: Add the butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt over the potatoes and onions. This will add richness to the dish and help everything come together.
2. Add the Milk (Optional): For a creamier, softer texture, pour in the milk. Stir to combine, allowing the milk to help soften the potatoes further and create a slightly creamy base for the cheese to melt into.
3. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the potatoes. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to help the cheese melt thoroughly. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Final Touches and Serving

1. Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted and the potatoes are perfectly cheesy and crispy, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and added freshness.
2. Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot and fresh out of the skillet. Serve it as a side dish with your favorite protein (such as grilled chicken, steak, or bacon), or enjoy it on its own as a hearty breakfast or brunch.

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Notes and Tips

• Variation with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Colby Jack, Gruyère, or pepper jack would also work wonderfully if you want to switch up the flavors.
• Add Protein: To turn this into a full meal, you can add crispy bacon bits, sausage, or even shredded chicken during the cooking process. Simply add the protein after the onions and garlic have softened for additional flavor.
• Extra Crispy: For extra crispiness, you can broil the cheesy potato skillet for the last 2-3 minutes after the cheese has melted to get a golden, bubbly top. Be sure to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
• Make It Spicy: If you love spice, add some jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give the dish a nice kick.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place the skillet back on the stove over low heat or microwave individual portions.
• Substitute Potatoes: While russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their fluffy interior, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes for a creamier texture.

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Conclusion

This Cheesy Potato Skillet is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy potatoes, savory onions and garlic, and gooey cheese. It’s versatile enough to be served at breakfast, as a side dish, or as a main course for lunch or dinner. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!