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Crispy Mexican breakfast potatoes in cast iron skillet with fried egg

Crispy Mexican Breakfast Potatoes Skillet


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or avocado oil
  • 1 large white onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Spice Blend:

  • 2 tablespoons Mexican chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish:

 

  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 limes, cut into wedges
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Queso fresco for serving (optional)
  • Mexican crema for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

 

  1. Prep the Potatoes:
    • Cube potatoes and soak in cold water for 15 minutes
    • Drain and pat completely dry with paper towels
    • Mix all spice blend ingredients in a small bowl
  2. Start Cooking:
    • Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat
    • Once oil is shimmering, add dried potatoes in a single layer
    • Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until golden brown
    • Flip and cook another 4-5 minutes
  3. Add Aromatics:
    • Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet
    • Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally
    • Add minced garlic and spice blend
    • Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant
  4. Finish and Serve:
    • Cover skillet and reduce heat to medium-low
    • Cook 5-7 minutes until potatoes are tender
    • Remove from heat and toss with fresh cilantro
    • Serve hot with lime wedges and optional toppings

Notes

 

  • For extra crispy potatoes, don’t skip the soaking step!
  • Work in batches if needed – overcrowding the pan prevents proper browning
  • Make ahead: Prep vegetables and spice mix the night before
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Reheat in a hot skillet (avoid microwave) for best texture