Baked Bacon Egg Skillet with Melted Cheese
A hearty one-pan breakfast combining crispy bacon, creamy eggs, and melted cheese over tender potatoes. The frozen potatoes cook quickly in the microwave before the egg mixture bakes until set. Perfect for weekend brunch, potlucks, or feeding a crowd. This version layers flavors with two cheeses and finishes with bacon sprinkled on top for texture and smokiness.
Ingredients
- 2 cup frozen cubed potatoes
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tablespoon whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
- 1
Melt butter in a microwave-safe pie dish.
- 2
Add frozen potatoes and microwave 8 to 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- 3
While potatoes cook, prepare bacon according to package directions and crumble.
- 4
Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and pepper jack cheese.
- 5
Pour egg mixture over hot potatoes.
- 6
Bake at 350F for 18 to 20 minutes until eggs are almost set.
- 7
Remove from oven and top with Cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- 8
Return to oven for 3 to 5 minutes until eggs are fully set and cheese melts.
- 9
Serve immediately.
Tips
Stir potatoes halfway through microwaving for even cooking and faster texture development.
Use pre-cooked bacon to save time; cook while potatoes microwave for efficient timing.
For a crispy cheese layer, broil the skillet 1 to 2 minutes after the final bake if your oven allows.
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat in a 325F oven for 10 to 12 minutes covered.
Prepare egg mixture and shred cheeses the night before. Cook bacon ahead and store separately. Assemble and bake the morning of.
Serve warm from the skillet directly to plates. Pairs with toast, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad.
Common Mistakes
Microwave potatoes without stirring to avoid undercooked edges.
Overbake eggs to prevent a rubbery, tough texture.
Skip the initial microwave step to avoid raw potato centers in the final dish.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, but peel, cube, and parboil or microwave fresh potatoes 5 to 8 minutes first until tender-crisp. Frozen cubes cook faster and more evenly.
What if I don't have pepper jack cheese?
Substitute any melting cheese: monterey jack, provolone, or omit entirely for a milder dish. The pepper jack adds mild heat; skip it if heat-sensitive.
How long does this keep, and can I freeze leftovers?
Refrigerate covered up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended; eggs become rubbery and watery upon thaw. Reheat gently in the oven instead.