If you are craving a comforting dish that brings together crispy, golden potatoes with the vibrant crunch of cabbage and the rich, melty goodness of Irish cheddar, then this Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe is going to be your new favorite go-to. It’s a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that feels both hearty and fresh, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. The mix of simple ingredients comes together in a way that’s surprisingly delightful, making every bite a satisfying treat you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s the creamy Irish cheddar providing richness, the cabbage adding a sweet earthiness, or the potatoes offering that irresistible crisp texture. Getting the basics right ensures every element shines through beautifully.
- Shredded potatoes (2 cups): Use russet potatoes or thawed refrigerated hash browns for crispiness and a fluffy inside.
- Thinly sliced green cabbage (2 cups): Adds a fresh crunch and a mild, sweet flavor that balances the cheese.
- Shredded Irish cheddar cheese (1 cup): This cheese’s sharpness and creaminess elevate the dish to a comforting, indulgent level.
- Large egg (1): Adds richness and a lovely runny center if cooked just right.
- Butter or olive oil (2 tablespoons, plus more if needed): Essential for sautéing and achieving that perfect golden crust on the hash browns.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance and bring out the natural flavors of all your ingredients.
- Chopped green onions (2 tablespoons): A fresh, slightly sharp garnish that adds color and a little pop of flavor.
How to Make Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by shredding your potatoes if they aren’t pre-shredded already. Rinse them under cold water to wash away excess starch — this step is key to getting that crispy texture on the outside once cooked. Make sure to pat them dry very well since moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Step 2: Sauté the Cabbage
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced green cabbage along with a pinch of salt. Let the cabbage soften and become tender, cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes. This slow sauté mellows the cabbage’s flavor and brings out a subtle sweetness.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Push the tender cabbage gently to the edges of the pan, creating a space right in the center. Add the remaining butter and spread the shredded potatoes evenly there. Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes so they can develop a beautiful golden crust. This crispy layer is one of the highlights of this Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe.
Step 4: Combine and Add Cheese
Carefully mix the cabbage and potatoes together, then press the mixture back into an even layer across the skillet. Sprinkle that glorious Irish cheddar evenly on top. Allow the cheese to melt naturally, mingling its creamy texture with the hot potatoes and cabbage below.
Step 5: Cook the Egg
Create a little well in the center of your skillet hash and crack the egg right into it. Cover the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the egg white is completely set but the yolk remains soft and runny—unless you prefer it fully cooked. This step adds a luxurious touch of richness to every bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions for a fresh, mild bite and a pop of color. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, then serve the skillet hot, straight from the pan. This is comfort food at its very best.
How to Serve Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions bring a crisp bite that contrasts the savory flavors beautifully. For an extra kick, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika can also work wonders. These garnishes are easy ways to brighten the dish without overwhelming its classic flavors.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe pairs wonderfully with lighter sides like a simple mixed greens salad or fresh fruit to balance the richness. For a fuller meal, consider adding some crispy bacon or grilled sausages on the side. The versatility of this recipe means it fits beautifully into breakfast, brunch, or even a comforting dinner spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, you can easily scale up this recipe in a larger skillet and serve it family-style right at the table. Alternatively, create individual portions using small cast iron skillets or ramekins for a charming, rustic look. Either way, the dish’s vibrant colors and textures make it inviting and visually appealing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring the hash to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days without losing too much of its texture or flavor.
Freezing
This Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe freezes nicely if you want to prep ahead. Portion the cooled hash into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just note that the egg may not freeze well, so you might want to cook the egg fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to restore crunchiness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make the hash soggy. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results.
FAQs
Can I use regular cheddar instead of Irish cheddar?
Absolutely! While Irish cheddar adds a unique sharpness and creaminess, regular sharp cheddar will still yield a deliciously cheesy and flavorful dish.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe is fully vegetarian, especially if you use butter or olive oil and keep the garnishes plant-based.
Can I prepare this dish vegan?
You can make it vegan by swapping the butter for olive oil, using a plant-based cheddar-style cheese, and omitting the egg or replacing it with a tofu scramble or chickpea flour “egg.”
What other vegetables can I add?
The cabbage is a star here, but feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, or even some shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.
How do I make sure the hash browns get crispy?
Dry your potatoes thoroughly and don’t stir them while they’re cooking on one side. Letting them cook undisturbed in enough fat is the key to that delicious golden crust.
Final Thoughts
This Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe is a true kitchen gem that combines ease, flavor, and comforting textures into one fantastic dish. Whether you’re cooking for one or sharing with loved ones, it’s guaranteed to brighten your table and satisfy your cravings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every crispy, cheesy, tender bite!
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Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet is a hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish featuring crispy shredded potatoes, tender sautéed cabbage, melted sharp Irish cheddar cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg on top. It’s a comforting, one-pan recipe that combines simple ingredients with rich flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded potatoes (russet or refrigerated hash browns, thawed and dry)
- 2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded Irish cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (plus more if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Shred the potatoes and rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Pat them dry completely using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure crispiness when cooking.
- Sauté the Cabbage: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced cabbage along with a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender but still retains a slight bite.
- Cook the Potatoes: Push the sautéed cabbage to the edges of the skillet to create space in the center. Add the remaining butter or oil and spread the shredded potatoes evenly in the center. Cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until the bottom layer of potatoes turns golden brown and crispy.
- Combine and Add Cheese: Gently mix the cabbage and potatoes together in the skillet, then flatten the mixture into an even layer again. Sprinkle the shredded Irish cheddar cheese evenly on top and allow it to melt, which should take a few minutes.
- Cook the Egg: Create a well in the center of the skillet and crack the egg into it. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the egg white is fully set but the yolk remains runny or to your preferred doneness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions, season with additional salt and pepper if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Ensure potatoes are patted very dry to achieve the best crisp texture.
- You can substitute olive oil for butter to make the dish dairy-free if desired.
- Adjust the cooking time of the egg based on your preferred yolk consistency.
- Leftover hash browns or pre-shredded frozen cabbage can be used for convenience.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing cabbage.
