Save to Pinterest This hearty Cheesy Potato Skillet is the kind of one-pan meal that brings everyone to the table. It starts with golden potatoes sizzling in butter and ends with gooey cheddar melting over savory vegetables. Whether I am craving breakfast-for-dinner or need a crowd-pleaser for brunch, this skillet never disappoints and disappears fast every time.
Every time I pull this bubbling skillet out of the oven, my kids start sneaking bites before it even hits the table. On lazy weekends, the aroma alone is enough to wake up the whole house.
Ingredients
- Yukon Gold potatoes: provide a creamy texture and golden color choose firm potatoes with unblemished skins
- Yellow onion: gives subtle sweetness pick one that feels heavy for its size
- Garlic: brings out savory notes fresh cloves offer the best flavor
- Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and a pop of color look for vibrant and glossy peppers
- Sharp cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and delivers big flavor buy fresh blocks to shred yourself for best results
- Sour cream: brings creaminess and tang check for full-fat versions for richness
- Unsalted butter: provides depth and golden edges always use real butter for optimal flavor
- Olive oil: keeps the skillet from sticking use extra virgin for the richest taste
- Smoked paprika: deepens the flavor profile Spanish smoked paprika adds a distinctive aroma
- Dried thyme: delivers warmth and earthiness gently crush it in your palm before adding
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: round out all the flavors use flaky salt and grind pepper fresh for fullest taste
- Fresh chives or parsley: finish things with a light herby touch choose bright green herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the Fats:
- Pour olive oil and add butter to a large oven-safe skillet set over medium heat Let the butter melt completely until it slightly foams and both fats shimmer across the surface
- Brown the Potatoes:
- Add peeled and evenly diced Yukon Gold potatoes Spread them in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes Stir and repeat until all sides turn lightly golden This step creates flavor and texture
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add finely chopped onion diced red bell pepper and minced garlic Stir well and let cook for about 8 to 10 minutes Stir occasionally so the vegetables soften without burning Scrape up any browned bits for extra taste
- Season the Skillet:
- Sprinkle smoked paprika dried thyme a generous pinch of salt and several grinds of black pepper Toss everything together so the seasonings coat every potato and veggie piece Let the flavors bloom for a minute or two
- Prepare to Broil:
- Preheat your oven broiler to high while the skillet finishes on the stovetop Keep a close eye on the mixture so nothing scorches
- Add Dairy Boost:
- With the skillet off heat spoon small dollops of sour cream evenly over the potatoes Then scatter fresh grated cheddar all across the surface You want plenty of coverage so every bite oozes cheese
- Broil to Perfection:
- Slide the skillet under the hot broiler Watch closely in those final 2 to 3 minutes The cheese should melt fast and bubble up until deep golden brown with a few crisp spots
- Rest and Garnish:
- Remove the skillet using oven mitts and let it cool for 5 minutes This keeps the cheese gooey but avoids burning your tongue Finish with a shower of freshly chopped chives or parsley for color and freshness
Save to Pinterest I absolutely love the first moment the cheddar goes under the broiler and transforms into a molten topping Sometimes my family will sneak the first oily potato straight from the pan while the cheese is still bubbling and no one can resist those crispy edges
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool to room temperature then transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days If you want to keep it longer portion into servings and freeze tight for up to two months When reheating add a splash of milk or more cheese and cover to maintain moisture
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap Yukon Gold potatoes for russets or red-skinned potatoes for a slightly different texture Use Monterey Jack Gruyère or a smoked cheese instead of cheddar to play with flavor If dairy is an issue try plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or a plant-based cheese for a vegan spin
Serving Suggestions
This skillet pairs perfectly with a side salad for balance or top with a fried or poached egg for a more filling brunch I sometimes set out extra hot sauce and crusty bread on the table for soaking up every bit of cheesy goodness Try it alongside sautéed greens for added color and nutrition
Cultural and Historical Notes
Comfort food classics like cheesy potatoes make appearances at family reunions church breakfast spreads and potluck dinners across the Midwest and South I first tried a recipe like this at my aunt’s kitchen table and the memory stuck with me Since then I have tinkered with the cheese mix and always use Yukon Golds for their creamy interior
Seasonal Adaptations
In winter add sautéed mushrooms spinach or even kale with the onions For summer try scattered cherry tomatoes or corn kernels before the cheese goes on Roast a few garlic cloves for autumn gatherings or use smoked paprika for that gentle BBQ warmth
Save to Pinterest Allow the skillet to rest so the cheese sets slightly before serving If you do not have an oven-safe skillet transfer potatoes to a baking dish before broiling Mix in cooked bacon or roasted chicken for plenty of protein
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute another cheese for cheddar?
Absolutely. Monterey Jack or Gruyère work well, adding distinct flavor profiles and meltability.
- → How do I make this dish extra crispy?
For crispier potatoes, increase skillet cooking time and use medium-high heat. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- → Is this meal suitable for breakfast?
Yes, pair with fried eggs or a green salad for a balanced breakfast or brunch option.
- → Can I include protein like bacon or ham?
Yes; cooked bacon or diced ham can be added during the sauté stage for a heartier meal.
- → Does this dish contain gluten?
No, all listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Verify labels for processed cheese and sour cream.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or skillet.