Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble

This Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of fluffy eggs and crispy potatoes with savory ham, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or need a quick weekday meal, this scramble will satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble

This dish stands out for several reasons:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy mornings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of eggs, potatoes, ham, and cheese creates a delicious burst of flavors in every bite.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to suit your preferences.
• Filling Meal: With hearty ingredients, this scramble keeps you satisfied throughout the morning.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness, making it a hit for family breakfasts.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: A spacious pan helps cook everything evenly without overcrowding.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing eggs and seasonings before adding them to the pan.
• Whisk: Ensures your egg mixture is well combined for a fluffy texture.

Ingredients

For the Scramble:

• 4 large eggs
• 1.5 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1.5 tablespoons frying oil or clarified butter
• 4 cups (600g) chopped cooked potatoes
• 2 oz (60g) ham, chopped into cubes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (aged cheddar and Gruyere recommended)

To Serve:

• Sour cream
• Chopped chives

How to Make Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble

Step 1: Whisk Together Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and Old Bay seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook Potatoes

Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped potatoes and cook until browned on all sides.

Step 3: Add Ham and Eggs

Add the ham into the pan with the potatoes. Pour the egg mixture into the pan. Cook briefly over low heat until eggs are only partially set. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the eggs and potatoes. Cover the pan with a lid and continue cooking over low heat until the cheese melts and eggs are fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer to plates and serve hot with sour cream and chopped chives on top. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble

Serving your Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble can elevate the meal experience, making it not only delicious but visually appealing. Here are some delightful ways to serve this hearty dish.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the eggs and potatoes perfectly.
• Chopped Chives: Fresh chives sprinkle on top provide a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that enhances the dish.

Accompaniments

• Toast: Serve with buttered toast for a crispy side that balances the soft scramble.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad made with greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich scramble.

Breakfast Burrito Style

• Wrap It Up: Place the scramble in a warm tortilla, add salsa, and roll it up for a portable breakfast option.
• Avocado Slices: Add slices of avocado inside the wrap for creaminess and healthy fats.

How to Perfect Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble

To create the ultimate Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality cheese will give you the best flavor.
• Cook Potatoes Thoroughly: Ensure your potatoes are crispy before adding eggs for optimal texture contrast.
• Control Heat Levels: Start cooking on medium-high heat, then reduce to low when adding eggs to prevent overcooking.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to use other seasonings like Cajun for a spicy kick or herbs for added freshness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making more than one batch, use multiple pans to ensure even cooking.
• Let Cheese Melt Fully: Covering the pan helps cheese melt uniformly, creating an irresistible gooey topping.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble can enhance your breakfast or brunch spread. Here are some perfect options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness, balancing out the richness of the scramble.
2. Bacon or Sausage Links: Crispy bacon or savory sausage links provide a protein punch that complements the egg dish nicely.
3. Roasted Tomatoes: Sweet roasted tomatoes add acidity and vibrant color to your plate.
4. Home Fries: Extra crispy home fries seasoned with herbs make for a comforting addition on the side.
5. Bagels with Cream Cheese: Toasted bagels spread with cream cheese offer a delightful crunch alongside your savory scramble.
6. Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Overcooking the Eggs: Cooking the eggs too long can lead to a rubbery texture. Remove them from heat when they’re still slightly runny, as they will continue to cook off the heat.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold eggs or potatoes can disrupt cooking times. Always use room temperature ingredients for a more even cook.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Underseasoning can make your dish bland. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to enhance flavors.
• Not Preheating the Pan: Starting with a cold pan can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your frying pan is hot before adding oil and ingredients.
• Skipping the Cheese Layer: Not melting cheese on top means missing out on that delicious gooey layer. Always cover it with a lid to ensure even melting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Aged cheddar and Gruyere are excellent choices due to their melting properties and flavor.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the ham and consider adding more vegetables or beans for protein.

Can I use different seasonings instead of Old Bay?

Yes! Cajun seasoning, fajita seasoning, or chili powder are great alternatives that add unique flavors.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes approximately three servings, perfect for sharing at brunch!

Final Thoughts

The Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is not only hearty but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you serve it on busy weekdays or leisurely weekends, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or mix-ins!