This Egg Skillet is a hearty, all-in-one breakfast packed with crispy potatoes, tender sautéed vegetables, fluffy scrambled eggs, savory diced ham, and plenty of melted cheese. Everything comes together in one pan, making it both satisfying and easy to prepare for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers all the best parts of a classic breakfast in a single skillet. You get golden, crispy-on-the-outside potatoes, soft and fluffy eggs, flavorful ham, and perfectly melted cheese in every bite.

It’s quick enough for a weekday meal yet hearty enough for breakfast-for-dinner. The one-pan preparation means minimal cleanup, and the ingredients are simple and easy to customize. You can also wrap it in a tortilla for a delicious breakfast burrito or serve it straight from the skillet for a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper (about 1/2-inch pieces)
1/3 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1/2-inch pieces)
2 cups red potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 2–3 medium potatoes)
Salt, to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon, divided)
Black pepper, to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon, divided)
6 large eggs
2 tablespoons heavy cream (or whole milk or half-and-half)
1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional)
1 cup diced cooked ham (preferably beef or turkey ham)
1 cup freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the vegetables
   Chop the red bell pepper and onion into 1/2-inch pieces. Cut the red potatoes into small 1/2-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and become tender on the inside while crisping on the outside.
2. Cook the vegetables
   In a large 12-inch nonstick skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped red pepper, onion, and cubed potatoes. Season with about 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.

Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the heat as needed: lower it if the vegetables brown too quickly or raise it slightly if they are not sizzling. The potatoes should be crisp on the outside and tender when pierced with a fork. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a plate and set aside.

3. Prepare the eggs
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Cajun seasoning (if using), and the remaining salt and pepper. Whisk briskly until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
4. Scramble the eggs
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and heat over medium-high. Swirl to coat the pan evenly. Once the butter has melted, pour in the egg mixture and spread it into an even layer.

Let the eggs sit undisturbed for 30 seconds. Using a silicone spatula, gently push the eggs from one side of the skillet to the other while tilting the pan so uncooked egg flows into the empty space. Continue this process until the eggs are softly scrambled and still slightly glossy. Avoid overcooking. Remove from heat.

5. Combine everything
   Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet along with the diced ham. Gently fold in the scrambled eggs. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir on low heat just until the cheese melts.
6. Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Approximate nutrition per serving:
Calories: 295 kcal
Carbohydrates: 14.3 g
Protein: 21.2 g
Fat: 24.9 g

Variations

Vegetarian version: Omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

Spicy twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the vegetables.

Different cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Colby-Jack blend for a different flavor profile.

Herb boost: Stir in fresh chives or green onions just before serving for added freshness.

Breakfast burritos: Spoon the finished egg skillet into warm tortillas and roll tightly for a portable meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating on the stovetop: Warm in a nonstick skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Reheating in the microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.

Freezing is not recommended, as the eggs may become watery when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to one day in advance and reheat gently before serving. For best texture, slightly undercook the eggs if you plan to reheat.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work well. Just be sure to dice them into small, even pieces.

How do I keep the eggs soft and fluffy?

Avoid overcooking and remove them from the heat while they are still slightly glossy. They will continue to cook from residual heat.

Can I cook this in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, but reduce the heat once the pan is hot, as cast iron retains heat well and can overcook the eggs quickly.

What can I serve with Egg Skillet?

It pairs well with fresh fruit, toast, or warm tortillas.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, whole milk or half-and-half can be used. The cream simply makes the eggs richer.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free butter alternative, skip the cream or use a plant-based substitute, and replace the cheese with a dairy-free option.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, or green onions are great additions.

Why are my potatoes not getting crispy?

Make sure the skillet is large enough so the potatoes are not overcrowded, and allow them to cook without stirring too frequently.

Is this recipe suitable for breakfast-for-dinner?

Yes, it makes an excellent and filling dinner option when you want something quick and comforting.

Conclusion

This Egg Skillet is a simple yet satisfying meal that combines crispy potatoes, tender vegetables, fluffy eggs, savory ham, and melted cheese in one convenient pan. It’s versatile, flavorful, and perfect for any time of day. Whether served straight from the skillet or wrapped in a tortilla, this hearty dish is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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