The sizzle of thick-cut Irish bacon in a hot skillet instantly transports me back to cozy Sunday mornings, where family gathered around the table, sharing stories over hearty fare. There’s something utterly satisfying about the rich, smoky flavor of bacon mingling with tender Yukon Gold potatoes and sweet onions, creating a comforting dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is to savor.
You know those days when you’re tired of the same old takeout? This Skillet Irish Bacon and Potatoes recipe is the perfect solution to shake things up, offering a delightful twist that brings homemade warmth to your weeknight routine. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll create a meal that not only impresses but also brings smiles to everyone at the table.
Ready to dive into a dish that marries simplicity with flavor? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Irish Bacon Potato Skillet a must-try?
Comforting, indulgent flavors: This dish combines the rich, smoky taste of Irish bacon with tender potatoes and sweet onions, creating a savory experience you’ll crave.
Quick and easy: With just 27 minutes from start to finish, you can have a hearty meal ready without fuss.
Versatile options: Customize it with optional garlic or smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost, making it your own unique dish.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: This is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
One-pan wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup while savoring that satisfying crispy texture that makes each bite delightful.
Get your skillet ready and delight your loved ones with this delicious recipe!
Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Ingredients
• The perfect mix of flavors awaits!
For the Potatoes
- Yukon Gold or red potatoes – These creamy potatoes hold up well and give a wonderful texture to the dish.
For the Bacon
- Thick-cut Irish bacon – This adds a rich, smoky flavor that transforms the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet into a feast.
For the Vegetables
- Large yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth; be sure to slice it thinly for even cooking.
- Fresh parsley – A sprinkle at the end brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
For Cooking
- Butter – Use salted or unsalted for richness; olive oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
For Seasoning
- Sea salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
- Freshly cracked black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to elevate your dish.
- Garlic powder or minced garlic (optional) – A dash of garlic brings an aromatic depth that complements the bacon beautifully.
- Smoked paprika (optional) – Infuses a hint of smokiness for an extra flavor layer.
How to Make Irish Bacon Potato Skillet
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Prep Ingredients: Scrub and dice the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Slice the onion thinly and chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to chop the parsley and measure the butter and seasonings.
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Cook Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy at the edges, about 6-8 minutes. If you’re using American bacon, drain all but 2 tablespoons of fat.
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Sauté Onions: Push the crispy bacon to one side of the skillet. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté until softened and lightly golden, approximately 2-3 minutes.
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Combine Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and the optional garlic powder and smoked paprika. Toss everything to coat well in the bacon fat and onions.
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Crisp Potatoes: Spread the potatoes and bacon in an even layer across the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip with a spatula, then continue cooking, stirring every 3-4 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and crispy all over (about 10-15 minutes). If the potatoes start sticking, add 1 tablespoon butter.
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Add Crunch: For an extra crunch, dot the top with the remaining butter and broil for 2-3 minutes, or let them crisp up on the stovetop for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Taste and adjust the salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, and enjoy!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream for an extra creamy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Irish Bacon Potato Skillets are the perfect dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the potatoes and onions, and even bacon, up to 24 hours in advance to save time on busy weeknights. Store the prepped ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For best results, keep the ingredients separated until you’re ready to cook to prevent browning and sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy your Irish Bacon Potato Skillet, simply toss everything together in the skillet according to the directions, cooking until crispy and golden. This way, you can savor a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Irish Bacon Potato Skillet
• Perfect Potato Cuts: Make sure to dice the potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and crispiness in your Irish Bacon Potato Skillet.
• Crispy Bacon: For the best flavor, choose thick-cut Irish bacon and allow it to cook until golden brown and crispy; this adds a rich depth to the dish.
• Don’t Rush the Crust: Let the potatoes sit undisturbed for the initial cooking time to develop that beautiful golden crust on the bottom, flipping only as directed.
• Season Gradually: Taste the dish before adding all your salt and pepper. Remember that bacon is salty, so adjust seasonings to your preference for the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet.
• Optional Boosts: Consider adding minced garlic or smoked paprika for extra flavor. These additions can elevate the dish and suit your taste.
• Freshness Matters: Don’t skimp on the parsley! It brings a fresh pop of color and flavor—adding it just before serving brightens the entire dish.
Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Variations
Feel free to play around with this comforting dish and make it uniquely yours with these variations!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil and skip the garlic for a delicious, creamy experience without dairy.
- Veggie-Packed: Add 1 cup of diced bell peppers or spinach to the skillet for a colorful and nutritious twist. The vibrant veggies will add a lovely crunch and sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a warm, spicy accent that elevates the flavors beautifully. Every bite will have a delightful zing!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for an aromatic twist that brightens the dish. The herbal fragrance will entice your senses.
- Loaded Variation: Top the dish with shredded cheese when it’s almost done cooking for a gooey, melty finish. This cheesy addition makes every bite feel decadent.
- Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead for a sweeter flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the savory bacon. The combination will give a new dimension to your skillet!
- Breakfast Style: Serve with eggs sunny-side up on top for a hearty breakfast option that will start your day off right. The runny yolk adds a rich creaminess.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a hint of liquid smoke instead of smoked paprika for an intense smoky flavor that enhances the bacon and potatoes. This will bring a whole new depth.
What to Serve with Irish Bacon Potato Skillet?
As you whip up this hearty dish, consider complementing it with side options that enhance the cozy flavors and textures.
- Fresh Mixed Salad: A light and vibrant salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich bacon flavors.
- Creamy Colcannon: This traditional Irish dish of mashed potatoes and greens pairs beautifully, enriching the meal with additional texture and flavor.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky crust complements the savory skillet dish and adds a comforting, hearty element to the table.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness and slight crispness contrast wonderfully with the savory potatoes and bacon, creating a delightful balance.
For a more elaborate meal, serve with a Pint of Irish Stout. The deep, malty flavors echo the smokiness of the bacon, making every bite a celebration of tastes.
Finish off the meal with Apple Crumble. Its warm, fruity, and slightly tart flavors provide the perfect sweet note to finish a delicious dinner.
How to Store and Freeze Irish Bacon Potato Skillet
Room Temperature: Enjoy the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet fresh for the best flavor. If left out, consume within 2 hours for food safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed evenly.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, use a skillet to re-crisp the potatoes and bacon for delicious leftovers!
Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes should I use for the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet?
I recommend using Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold up during cooking. They become tender and complement the smoky flavor of Irish bacon beautifully.
How should I store leftovers of the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated all the way through. This method helps retain that delightful crispy texture!
Can I freeze the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the skillet to cool completely after cooking. Divide the portions into freezer-safe bags, pressing out as much air as possible. Your delicious meal can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop for a crispy finish.
What if my potatoes are sticking to the skillet while cooking?
If you find the potatoes sticking, it’s likely they need a bit more fat to help them along. I suggest adding about 1 tablespoon of butter. Also, make sure to allow the potatoes to rest undisturbed for the first 4-5 minutes of cooking to develop that irresistible crust.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains bacon; if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider swapping the bacon for a plant-based option or even smoked tempeh for a similar flavor. For those sensitive to dairy, olive oil can be used instead of butter. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens!
Can I customize the seasonings in the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet?
Very much so! Feel free to add minced garlic or smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost. You can also play around with other herbs—thyme or rosemary can add delightful depth. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste and make it uniquely yours!
Delicious Irish Bacon Potato Skillet for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Scrub and dice the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Slice the onion thinly and chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Don't forget to chop the parsley and measure the butter and seasonings.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy at the edges, about 6-8 minutes.
- Push the crispy bacon to one side of the skillet. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté until softened and lightly golden, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced potatoes. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder and smoked paprika. Toss everything to coat well.
- Spread the potatoes and bacon in an even layer across the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip and continue cooking, stirring every 3-4 minutes, until fork-tender and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
- For extra crunch, dot the top with remaining butter and broil for 2-3 minutes, or let them crisp on the stovetop.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.