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Introduction

The hearty breakfast skillet is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines crispy potatoes, cheesy eggs, and flavorful seasonings. Originating in the United States, this dish became popular for its simplicity and ability to incorporate various ingredients, making it a staple in diners and homes alike. Loved for its comforting flavors and customizable nature, the breakfast skillet is perfect for mornings or even “brinner” (breakfast for dinner).

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• Olive oil: ¼ cup

• Frozen shredded hash browns: 5 cups (or 2 medium russet potatoes)

• Spices: 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, ¼ teaspoon fennel seeds

• Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon

• Green onions: 2, thinly sliced

• Cheddar cheese: ¼ cup shredded, plus extra for garnish

• Butter: 1 tablespoon

• Eggs: 4

• Garnishes: Salsa and fresh cilantro (optional)

Method of Preparation

Follow these steps to prepare your hearty breakfast skillet:

1. Cook the hash browns: Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add hash browns and cook for about 6 minutes, flipping occasionally. Sprinkle chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, fennel seeds, and kosher salt over the potatoes. Continue cooking for another 6 minutes until golden brown.

2. Add cheese and eggs: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in green onions (reserve some for garnish) and cheddar cheese. Create divots in the skillet and add butter into each well. Crack an egg into each divot and season with kosher salt.

3. Cook eggs on stovetop: Increase heat to medium-low and cook for 3 minutes.

4. Finish in broiler: Preheat the broiler. Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for 3–4 minutes until egg whites are set.

5. Serve: Garnish with salsa, reserved green onions, and fresh cilantro. Serve warm.

Cooking Tips

• Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and a perfect sear.

• Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispy hash browns.

• Keep an eye on the eggs while broiling to prevent overcooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping preheating: Always preheat your skillet to avoid sticking.

• Overcooking eggs: Monitor closely to maintain runny yolks.

• Using wet potatoes: If using fresh potatoes, dry them thoroughly to achieve crispiness.

Serving Tips

Pair this dish with toasted bread or avocado slices for added texture and flavor. A side of fresh fruit or orange juice complements its richness beautifully.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Eggs: Rich in protein and essential vitamins like B12.

• Potatoes: Provide carbohydrates for energy along with potassium.

• Cheddar cheese: A good source of calcium.

• Olive oil: Contains healthy fats that support heart health.

• Spices like cumin and garlic powder: Boost immunity and digestion.

Interesting Facts

• Breakfast skillets are believed to have originated from American diners where chefs used leftover ingredients to create hearty meals.

• The term “skillet” refers not just to the dish but also the cooking method using a single pan.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This breakfast skillet is loved for its combination of crispy textures, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked eggs. It’s customizable, quick to prepare, and ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying solo.

Summarized Recipe

1. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet; cook hash browns with spices until crispy.

2. Add green onions, cheese, and make wells for eggs; crack eggs into wells.

3. Cook eggs partially on stovetop; finish under broiler until whites are set.

4. Garnish with salsa and cilantro; serve warm.

Enjoy this hearty breakfast skillet as a delicious start to your day!

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