Name: Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet – Easy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Irish Bacon (Can substitute with thick-cut center-cut bacon.); 4 medium Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes (Russets can be used but should be cut larger.); 1 medium Sweet Onion (Substitute with yellow onions if unavailable.); 2 tbsp Butter (Can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.); to taste Salt (Adjust to taste.); to taste Pepper (Adjust to taste.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When that first whiff of Irish bacon fills the kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a wave of nostalgia wash over you. This Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet is a celebration of flavors that transports me straight to cozy family gatherings and festive occasions, where the rich aroma ignites joyful memories. The combination of perfectly crispy bacon mingling with golden potatoes and sweet onions creates a dish that’s both heartwarming and stunningly simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a festive St. Patrick’s Day feast.

In just under 30 minutes, you’ll whip up a one-pan meal that’s not only delightfully easy but also packed with wholesome goodness. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility: if you want to jazz it up, add a fried egg or sautéed cabbage for an authentic touch. This is more than just dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate that will satisfy both your cravings and your heart. So, let’s dive into this deliciously crispy journey!

Why will you love this Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet?

Simplicity at its best: This recipe brings the comforting flavors of Irish cooking right to your home without the fuss.

One-pan meal: Less mess means more time to enjoy!

Quick cooking: Ready in under 30 minutes to satisfy those weeknight cravings.

Nostalgic flavors: The rich aroma and taste evoke memories of cozy family dinners.

Customizable: Elevate your skillet with a fried egg or sautéed cabbage for a unique twist, just like with our Fried Cabbage Bacon recipe!

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or casual dinners, this dish is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Ingredients

• Get ready to bring flavor to your table!

For the Skillet

Irish Bacon – Provides rich flavor and crispiness; substitute with thick-cut center-cut bacon for a similar texture.
Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes – Essential for creamy interiors and crispy edges; Russets can be used but should be cut larger to maintain structure.
Sweet Onions – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; substitute with yellow onions if unavailable.
Butter – Enhances flavor and helps with browning; can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Salt – For seasoning; adjust to taste, especially if sodium is a concern.
Pepper – Adds basic seasoning to enhance flavor.

This Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet is your ticket to a delicious meal that invites warmth and comfort, all in one pan!

How to Make Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet

Preheat the Skillet: Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat until hot, creating the perfect environment for that delicious sizzle.
Cook Bacon: Add the Irish bacon to the skillet. Cook until crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove it from the pan, keeping the delicious rendered fat for added flavor.
Add Potatoes and Onions: Toss in diced Yukon Gold or Red potatoes, and sliced sweet onions. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well for even seasoning.
Brown the Potatoes: Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for about 10-12 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden brown on the bottom. Then you can gently flip them.
Crisp Under Broiler (optional): If you desire extra crunch, transfer the skillet to the broiler for a few minutes until the potatoes are crisply golden.
Combine: Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet with the potatoes and onions, mixing it all together gently.
Serve Immediately: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions, and serve hot for best flavor!

Optional: Add a fried egg on top for a delightful breakfast twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet?

Imagine the delightful crunch of bacon mingling with creamy potatoes, a lovely culinary combination begging for the perfect companions to complete your meal.

Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed with lemon vinaigrette will add brightness to your hearty dish.
Soda Bread: The classic Irish soda bread brings a soft, slightly sweet counterpart that works beautifully with the dish’s savory notes.
Sautéed Cabbage: For a truly authentic experience, sautéed cabbage adds a tender crunch and mild flavor that complements the richness of the bacon.
Fried Eggs: For a heartier brunch option, serve fried eggs on top—runny yolks drizzled over the skillet create a luxurious finish.
Irish Stout: A cold bottle of stout beer enhances the flavors, balancing the richness of bacon while adding an earthy depth to your meal.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings a touch of sweetness and comforting texture that rounds off the meal perfectly.

Expert Tips for Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet

Patience is Key: Allowing the potatoes to brown undisturbed ensures maximum crispiness; flipping too soon can lead to mushy results.
Watch the Heat: If using (or using nonstick cookware), keep the heat on low to prevent sticking and burning.
Use a Broiler Rack: For easier clean-up and crispier results, try using a broiler rack instead of frying solely on the stovetop.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with your salt and pepper; adjusting seasoning is crucial to highlight the full flavor of the Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat under the broiler to retain crispiness.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet

Fridge: Store leftover crispy Irish bacon potato skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the container.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to restore crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can soften the potatoes.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. When ready, simply cook for a quick meal that’s packed with the same comforting flavors!

Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Variations

Embrace your inner chef and make this recipe your own with delightful twists that enhance flavor and cater to your cravings!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil for sautéing while maintaining all the delicious flavors.
Cheesy Delight: Add grated cheddar cheese on top for a creamy, delightful finish before serving.
Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for an added layer of flavor and texture. They blend wonderfully with the bacon and potatoes!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the skillet for a hint of heat that will awaken your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for a fragrant aroma and a taste that transcends traditional comfort food.
Savory Eggs: Top your skillet with fried or poached eggs, transforming it into a hearty breakfast dish that’s perfect any time of day. The runny yolk drizzles deliciously over the crisp potatoes!
Heart-Healthy: Opt for turkey bacon to make this dish leaner without sacrificing that beloved crispiness.
Cabbage Addition: For a touch of authenticity, sauté some shredded cabbage along with the onions. It adds a familiar Irish flavor that perfectly complements the bacon and potatoes.

Crispy Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the skillet?
Using Yukon Gold or Red potatoes is ideal because they offer creamy interiors and crispy edges. If these aren’t available, Russets can be used, but chop them larger to help them maintain their structure while cooking.

How should I store leftovers from the crispy Irish bacon potato skillet?
Leftovers can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To ensure the best flavor and texture when reheating, avoid using the microwave, as it can make the potatoes soggy. Instead, reheat under the broiler for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Can I freeze the crispy Irish bacon potato skillet?
Absolutely! You can freeze this delicious dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat under the broiler or in the oven for best results.

What should I do if my potatoes aren’t browning?
If you find that your potatoes aren’t browning, it’s likely because they were flipped too soon. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 10-12 minutes on medium heat until they’re golden on the bottom. If you’re using nonstick cookware, make sure you’re not using too high of a heat setting, as this can prevent proper browning.

Is this recipe suitable for special diets (gluten-free, dairy-free)?
Yes! The crispy Irish bacon potato skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as the bacon used doesn’t contain additives. If you’d like a dairy-free option, feel free to substitute the butter with olive oil for a deliciously light result. Always check ingredient labels to ensure that they meet your dietary requirements.

Can I add other ingredients to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. You can jazz it up by adding fried eggs on top for a breakfast twist or mix in sautéed cabbage for an authentic Irish flavor. You can also include ingredients like mushrooms, cheese, or bell peppers to tailor the dish to your liking!