Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble

Section: Wake Up to Flavor: Delicious Breakfast Ideas

Crispy potatoes, scrambled eggs, gooey cheddar cheese, and savory ham or bacon create a hearty breakfast classic in just one pan. Quick to prepare and naturally flavorful, this morning dish is finished with a sprinkle of green onions or chives for freshness. Ideal for busy mornings or lazy brunches, it takes advantage of simple ingredients and brings comfort to the table. Garnish with your favorite cheese or try rolling the mixture into a tortilla for a portable breakfast twist. Easy prep, simple steps, and delicious results every time!

A woman cooking in a kitchen.
Created By Sarah Lynn
Updated on Sat, 01 Nov 2025 16:13:14 GMT
A plate of food with a fried egg on top. Highlight
A plate of food with a fried egg on top. | satisfymeals.com

Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble is my go-to breakfast when I want something that feels special but does not take much effort. Crispy potatoes, fluffy eggs, gooey cheese, and a bit of smoky ham or bacon all come together in one pan for the ultimate morning comfort food. Whether it is a lazy Sunday brunch or a quick weekday fuel-up, this scramble hits every note.

The first time I made this, my family could not stop eating it straight from the skillet, and now I get requests every weekend.

Gather Your Ingredients

  • 4 medium potatoes diced: for crispy texture and substance Choose firm waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for best results
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: melts smoothly and gives richness Freshly grated cheese makes it extra gooey
  • 4 large eggs: source of protein and the fluffy foundation Always opt for large grade AA eggs for best flavor
  • Half cup milk: adds creaminess to the scrambled eggs Whole milk works best but feel free to use what you have
  • Half cup cooked ham or bacon chopped: for smoky flavor Use thick-cut bacon or quality ham for best taste
  • Quarter cup green onions or chives: fresh pop of color and mild oniony bite Use bright green tops for freshness
  • 2 tablespoons butter: gives golden flavor and crispness Use real butter for richness
  • Salt and pepper to taste: enhances all the other flavors I recommend flaky sea salt and coarse black pepper

How to Make It

Boil the Potatoes:
Place your diced potatoes into a pot of salted water and bring up to a boil. Let them cook for about ten to fifteen minutes or just until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. This step creates soft flavorful bites without raw centers. Drain thoroughly and set aside
Crisp the Potatoes:
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the boiled potatoes. Let them cook untouched for five to seven minutes. Only stir occasionally to help the outsides turn golden brown and crispy. This is where the magic crispiness happens
Add the Ham or Bacon:
If you are adding ham or bacon, toss the chopped pieces into the skillet now. Let them sizzle for another two to three minutes. The fats from the meat mix with the potatoes and boost the savory flavor
Whisk the Eggs:
Crack your eggs into a medium mixing bowl. Pour in the milk plus a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk them together until the mixture is light and fully blended. Proper whisking makes for fluffier eggs
Scramble the Eggs:
Pour your egg mixture right over the potatoes. Let everything cook over medium to low heat. Stir gently and occasionally for about five minutes. You want the eggs soft but cooked through, not dry or rubbery
Add the Cheese:
With the heat still on, sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the scramble. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for two to three minutes. The steam melts the cheese into every bite
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and throw on plenty of chopped green onions or chives. Their freshness cuts through the richness perfectly. Dish it up while it is hot
A cheesy potato egg scramble in a black bowl.
A cheesy potato egg scramble in a black bowl. | satisfymeals.com

My daughter always sneaks a bite of those crispy cheese edges before I can even serve everyone. It has become a new family tradition and brings smiles to our breakfast table every weekend.

Flavor Boosters

For extra depth, try adding smoked paprika or a shake of hot sauce before serving. A touch of fresh herbs like parsley or dill right at the end keeps everything lively and bright. Mixing different cheeses such as pepper jack or mozzarella also gives new layers of flavor to each bite.

Serving Suggestions

Stuff your scramble into a warm tortilla for a breakfast burrito, or top with sour cream or salsa. Serve alongside avocado slices or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.

Creative Twists

Use sausage, diced bell peppers, or leftover chicken in place of bacon or ham. Go dairy-free with oil and almond milk, or add mushrooms and spinach to increase the veggie power. Try sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors.

A plate of food with cheese and potatoes.
A plate of food with cheese and potatoes. | satisfymeals.com

With just a little prep, cheesy potato egg scramble becomes a breakfast everyone asks for again and again. Enjoy the comfort and flavor in every single bite!

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I make potatoes crispier?

Allow potatoes to dry completely after boiling and cook them in a hot skillet with enough butter until golden and crisp on the edges.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can swap cheddar for options like pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda to create your desired flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead?

Boil and dice the potatoes ahead of time to save on prep in the morning. Store them in the fridge until ready to use.

→ What can I use instead of ham or bacon?

Leave out the meat for a vegetarian version or substitute with cooked sausage or plant-based options as desired.

→ Do I have to use green onions or chives?

No, these are optional but add a fresh, zesty note. You can use parsley or omit them if you prefer less garnish.

Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble

Potatoes, eggs, cheese, and ham come together for a quick, satisfying breakfast in one pan.

Preparation Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
25 minutes
Overall Time
40 minutes
Created By: Sarah Lynn

Type of Recipe: Breakfast

Level of Difficulty: Simple to Make

Cuisine Category: American

Makes: 4 Portions (1 skillet breakfast casserole)

Dietary Options: Gluten-Free Option

Ingredients List

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 4 medium russet potatoes, diced
Ingredient 02 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Ingredient 03 4 large eggs
Ingredient 04 1/2 cup whole milk
Ingredient 05 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Ingredient 06 1/2 cup cooked ham or bacon, chopped
Ingredient 07 1/4 cup green onions or fresh chives, finely chopped
Ingredient 08 Kosher salt, to taste
Ingredient 09 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make It

Step 01

Place the diced potatoes in a pot of generously salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until potatoes are just tender when pierced with a fork. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 02

Heat butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the drained potatoes, spreading them into an even layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges are golden and crisp.

Step 03

Stir in the chopped ham or bacon. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently, until the meat is heated through.

Step 04

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 05

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the potatoes in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, gently stirring and folding until the eggs are scrambled and set but still moist.

Step 06

Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the scramble. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is thoroughly melted.

Step 07

Remove the skillet from heat. Top the scramble with chopped green onions or chives. Serve immediately while warm.

Extra Information

  1. Potatoes can be boiled in advance and refrigerated for quick preparation. Substitute any preferred cheese variety for different flavors. The scramble works as a filling for a breakfast burrito or wrap.

Essential Tools

  • Large nonstick skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Allergen Details

Always verify the ingredients for potential allergens and consult your doctor if needed.
  • Contains milk, eggs, and may contain pork.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

This info should only be used for general guidance and isn’t meant to replace professional medical advice.
  • Calorie Count: 380
  • Fat Content: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 36 grams
  • Protein Content: 17 grams