Chorizo Breakfast Skillet

This Breakfast Skillet Recipe is made with peppers, potatoes, eggs, cheese and topped with crispy bacon and chorizo.

This breakfast skillet is an ideal back-to-school recipe for kids due to its blend of nutrition, convenience, and deliciousness. As children embark on their school day, this skillet provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins, ensuring they start off with sustained energy. With the quick and simple preparation, busy mornings become manageable, allowing parents to serve a wholesome meal without added stress.

The skillet's customizable nature enables kids to engage in their breakfast choices, fostering independence and a sense of ownership over their nutrition. Beyond its nutritional benefits, the vibrant colors and flavors from chorizo, bacon, eggs, and vegetables create an enticing plate, encouraging even picky eaters to dig in. As a bonding opportunity, families can gather around the table, share this hearty meal, and kickstart the day with positivity and togetherness.

Check out my Sausage and Mushroom Skillet and my Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe.

Jump to:

• What is a Breakfast Skillet?
• Why you will love this Breakfast Skillet Recipe
• Breakfast Skillet Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Breakfast Skillet
• What to serve with Breakfast Skillet
• Substitutions
• Breakfast Skillet Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Breakfast Skillet
• Breakfast Skillet Recipe Top tip
• Breakfast Skillet Recipe
• Food safety

What is a Breakfast Skillet?

A breakfast skillet is a hearty and flavorful breakfast dish that is typically cooked and served in a skillet or frying pan. It usually consists of a combination of ingredients such as eggs, potatoes, vegetables, and meat, all cooked together in one pan. The exact ingredients and preparation can vary, but the basic concept involves layering and cooking the ingredients in a skillet until they are cooked through and well combined.

Common ingredients in a breakfast skillet include diced potatoes or hash browns, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, bacon, sausage, or ham. These ingredients are often sautéed or cooked in the skillet until they are browned and cooked to your desired level of crispiness. Eggs are then typically added to the skillet, either by cracking them directly into the mixture or by creating wells in the mixture and cracking the eggs into the wells. The skillet is then covered and cooked until the eggs are cooked to your liking, whether you prefer them runny or fully cooked.

Why you will love this Breakfast Skillet Recipe

• Flavorful combination: Breakfast skillets often incorporate a variety of ingredients, such as potatoes, vegetables, meat, and eggs, which come together to create a delicious and flavorful meal. The combination of different flavors and textures can be very satisfying and enjoyable.
• Hearty and filling: A breakfast skillet is a substantial dish that provides a satisfying and filling start to your day. The inclusion of ingredients like potatoes and meat adds substance to the meal, keeping you satiated for longer.
• Versatility: Breakfast skillets are highly versatile, allowing you to customize them based on your preferences and what ingredients you have on hand. You can choose the types of vegetables, meat, and seasonings you like best, making it a versatile recipe that can cater to different tastes.
• One-pan convenience: The beauty of a breakfast skillet is that it is typically cooked in one pan, reducing the number of dishes you need to clean up afterward. It's a convenient and straightforward recipe that saves time and effort in the kitchen.

Breakfast Skillet Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Chorizo
• Bacon
• Potatoes
• Bell peppers
• Diced onion
• Garlic
• Cheddar
• Cilantro
• Olive oil

See recipe card for Chorizo Breakfast Skillet quantities.

How to make Breakfast Skillet

Hint: Cook the eggs to your desired doneness.

What to serve with Breakfast Skillet

• Toast or Bread: Serve the breakfast skillet with slices of toasted bread, such as white, whole wheat, or sourdough. You can butter the toast or use it to dip into the runny egg yolks or to scoop up the skillet mixture.
• Biscuits: Fluffy buttermilk biscuits are a classic choice to serve alongside a breakfast skillet. They are perfect for sopping up the flavorful juices and adding a comforting element to the meal.
• Fresh Fruit: Add a refreshing touch to your breakfast skillet by serving it with a side of fresh fruit. Sliced oranges, berries, grapes, or melon are all excellent choices. The vibrant colors and natural sweetness of the fruit complement the savory flavors of the skillet.
• Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado is a delicious addition to a breakfast skillet. It adds a creamy and nutritious element to the meal. You can spread it on toast or simply place a few slices on the plate.
• Hot Sauce or Salsa: If you enjoy some extra heat and flavor, serve your breakfast skillet with hot sauce or salsa on the side. It allows you to add a spicy kick or tangy flavor to the skillet according to your preference.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy and tangy element to the breakfast skillet. It can help balance out the flavors and provide a cooling effect if your skillet has a bit of spice.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley, chives, or cilantro, over the breakfast skillet. It adds a pop of freshness and enhances the overall taste and presentation.

Substitutions

• Chorizo Sausage:
  • Substitute with breakfast sausage, turkey sausage, or vegetarian sausage for a different protein source.
  • Use diced ham or cooked crumbled bacon for a milder flavor.
• Bacon:
  • Replace with turkey bacon or vegan bacon if you're looking for a leaner option or catering to dietary restrictions.
  • Use cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage for an alternative meaty flavor.
• Eggs:
  • For a vegan option, you can use scrambled tofu or a plant-based egg substitute.
  • If you want to reduce cholesterol, consider using egg whites or egg substitutes.
• Potatoes:
  • Sweet potatoes or butternut squash can be used instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrients.
  • Replace with cauliflower rice or diced zucchini for a lower-carb version.
• Bell Peppers:
  • Substitute with diced tomatoes or cooked spinach for a change in flavor and texture.
  • Use sautéed mushrooms or grated carrots for added variety.
• Onions:
  • Leeks or shallots can be used as a milder onion alternative.
  • Replace with diced celery or fennel for a unique flavor twist.

Breakfast Skillet Recipe Variations

• Veggie Lover's Skillet: If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip the meat and load up your skillet with an assortment of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, tomatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms. Sauté them until tender and combine them with seasoned potatoes and eggs for a flavorful vegetarian breakfast.
• Mexican-Inspired Skillet: Give your breakfast skillet a spicy twist by incorporating Mexican flavors. Add diced chorizo or spicy sausage along with diced onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños for some heat. Top it off with shredded cheese, salsa, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Serve with warm tortillas for a delicious breakfast with a Mexican flair. Check out my Huevos Ahogados Recipe.
• Mediterranean Skillet: For a Mediterranean-inspired skillet, sauté diced potatoes with red onions, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and chopped fresh herbs like oregano and parsley. Crumble feta cheese over the top, and when the eggs are added, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright and tangy flavor.
• Smoked Salmon and Dill Skillet: Create an elegant breakfast skillet by incorporating smoked salmon and fresh dill. Sauté diced potatoes with onions until golden brown, then add in flaked smoked salmon and cook for a few minutes. Crack eggs into the skillet and sprinkle with fresh dill. Cook until the eggs are set, and serve with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche.
• Southwestern Skillet: Embrace the flavors of the Southwest by combining diced potatoes with black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and diced jalapeños. Season with cumin, chili powder, and paprika for a smoky and spicy kick. Top it off with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty breakfast skillet.

Check out my Shakshuka Recipe.

Equipment

• Skillet or Frying Pan: A skillet or frying pan is the primary tool for cooking a breakfast skillet. It's preferable to use a large, wide-bottomed skillet with high sides to accommodate all the ingredients.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: You'll need a spatula or wooden spoon for stirring, flipping, and combining the ingredients in the skillet.
• Knife: A sharp knife will be necessary for cutting and dicing ingredients such as potatoes, vegetables, and meat.
• Cutting Board: A cutting board provides a sturdy surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients.
• Stovetop or Range: A stovetop or range is required for cooking the breakfast skillet. It provides the heat source for sautéing, browning, and cooking the ingredients in the skillet.
• Optional: Lid or Cover: Depending on the recipe and desired outcome, you may need a lid or cover to cover the skillet while the eggs cook, helping to trap steam and cook the eggs evenly.
• Optional: Oven-Safe Skillet: If you're planning to finish the breakfast skillet in the oven, you'll need an oven-safe skillet that can withstand high oven temperatures.

How to store Breakfast Skillet

Storing a breakfast skillet can be done to enjoy leftovers or for meal prepping purposes. Here are some guidelines for storing a breakfast skillet:

1. Cool the Skillet: Allow the breakfast skillet to cool down to room temperature before storing it. Placing hot food directly into the refrigerator can raise the temperature inside and affect the overall food safety.
2. Portion and Package: Divide the breakfast skillet into individual portions or the desired serving sizes. This step makes it easier to reheat and prevents reheating the entire skillet if you only want a portion.
3. Refrigerator Storage: Place the portions of the breakfast skillet in airtight containers or sealable storage bags. Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
4. Refrigerate: Put the sealed containers or bags in the refrigerator promptly. The breakfast skillet can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
5. Freezer Storage (Optional): If you want to store the breakfast skillet for longer periods, you can freeze it. Transfer the portions to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and contents.
6. Freezer Storage Time: When properly stored in the freezer, the breakfast skillet can typically be stored for up to 2 to 3 months. However, for the best quality and taste, it's advisable to consume it within 1 to 2 months.
7. Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy the stored breakfast skillet, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if it was frozen. Then, reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in microwave-safe containers, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Breakfast Skillet Recipe Top tip

• Preparation: Have all your ingredients chopped, diced, and ready to go before you start cooking. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent overcooking while you prep.
• Sausage Selection: Choose good-quality chorizo sausage with a balance of spices and flavors. If you prefer milder heat, opt for a milder chorizo variety.
• Render Fat: Chorizo releases flavorful oils as it cooks. Use these oils to sauté the vegetables for extra flavor. You might need minimal additional oil or cooking spray.
• Crisp Bacon: Cook the bacon until it's crispy before adding other ingredients. This ensures a satisfying texture and prevents the skillet from becoming greasy.
• Potato Parboiling: If using raw potatoes, consider parboiling them briefly before adding to the skillet. This speeds up the cooking process and ensures even cooking.
• Customize Vegetables: While bell peppers and onions are traditional, feel free to customize with other vegetables like tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavors.
• Seasoning: Chorizo and bacon are naturally salty, so be mindful of adding additional salt. Taste before adding more seasoning, as the dish may not need much.
• Cheese Addition: If using cheese, sprinkle it over the cooked skillet and cover for a minute to melt. This creates a gooey, cheesy layer on top.
• Create Wells for Eggs: When adding eggs to the skillet, create small wells or indentations in the mixture of potatoes and vegetables. Crack the eggs directly into these wells, which helps contain the eggs and prevents them from spreading too much. This technique ensures that the eggs cook evenly and have a consistent doneness throughout.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.