Name: Hearty Irish Bacon Potato Skillet for Quick Comfort Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Yukon Gold or red potatoes (diced into 1/2-inch cubes); 6 ounces thick-cut Irish bacon (chopped); 1 medium yellow onion (thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish); 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil; to taste sea salt (adjust to taste); to taste black pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

As the aroma of sizzling bacon wafted through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but smile at the comforting memories it stirred. Enter the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet, a dish that combines thick-cut, smoky Irish bacon with tender Yukon Gold potatoes and sweet onions for a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a lifesaver on busy weeknights, transforming dinner into a satisfying experience in just 27 minutes—minimal cleanup included! Ideal for families craving homemade goodness, this skillet can be easily customized, making it a versatile weeknight staple. Ready to whip up something that brings the essence of Ireland right to your table? Let’s dive in!

Why Choose This Irish Skillet?

Simplicity Meets Comfort: With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only delightful but also approachable for cooks of all levels.

Rich, Smoky Flavor: The thick-cut Irish bacon pairs beautifully with the creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, delivering a taste experience that will leave you wanting more.

Customizable Goodness: Feel free to add optional ingredients like garlic or herbs for a personal touch, making this dish uniquely yours!

Quick and Convenient: Ready in about 27 minutes, this hearty meal is perfect for busy nights when you need something satisfying without the fuss.

Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will enjoy each mouthful, making it a hit at the dinner table and perfect for gathering around.

After you’ve savored this creation, consider branching out to some exciting variations, like Savory Sweet Potato or Sweet Potato Fries. Your taste buds will thank you!

Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Ingredients

• Let’s gather those ingredients for this comforting delight!

For the Skillet

Yukon Gold or red potatoes – Provides structure and creaminess; use medium potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.
Thick-cut Irish bacon – Adds rich, smoky flavor; substitute with another type of bacon or a plant-based option for dietary preferences.
Yellow onion – Enhances sweetness and depth; remember to slice it thin for quicker cooking.
Fresh parsley – For garnish, adding brightness and a hint of freshness.
Butter or olive oil – Used for cooking; it adds richness and can be substituted with any fat of your choice.
Sea salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.

Optional Flavor Boosters

Garlic powder – Adds depth of flavor; consider using it if you love a garlicky kick!
Smoked paprika – Gives a smoky note; can be omitted or swapped with regular paprika based on preference.

With these ingredients for the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that not only warms the heart but also brings the family together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irish Bacon Potato Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients for the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet. Dice the Yukon Gold or red potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, thinly slice the yellow onion, and chop the thick-cut Irish bacon. Finely chop some fresh parsley for garnish. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure a seamless transition between steps.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook the bacon for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. This will not only render the fat but also infuse the skillet with rich, smoky flavors. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, push the bacon to one side and add the thinly sliced onions to the other side. Sauté the onions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent. This step enhances the sweetness of the dish and builds a flavorful base for the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes
Introduce the diced potatoes into the skillet, mixing them well with the bacon and onions. Sprinkle sea salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder and smoked paprika over the mixture. Stir the potatoes to coat them evenly with the seasonings and ensure they absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 5: Develop a Crust
Spread the potato mixture evenly across the skillet, allowing it to cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This helps develop a crispy golden crust on the bottom. After the initial cooking time, gently flip and stir the potatoes every 3-4 minutes. Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and have crispy edges.

Step 6: Broil for Extra Crunch
To add an even more irresistible crunch to your Irish Bacon Potato Skillet, dot the top with butter or drizzle with olive oil. You can then either place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or continue cooking on the stovetop until everything is nicely browned and crisp. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and give it the perfect finishing touch!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once your Irish Bacon Potato Skillet is golden and crispy, remove it from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, allowing your family to enjoy a blissful and comforting meal that holds the essence of home-cooked goodness.

Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Variations

Feel free to explore fun twists and substitutions to make this Irish Bacon Potato Skillet truly your own!

Garlic Boost: Add minced garlic with the onions for a flavorful kick. The aromatic garlic elevates the dish, making it a decadent delight.
Herbal Twist: Swap smoked paprika for fresh thyme or rosemary to infuse herbal brightness. These herbs add a delightful perfume and pairs beautifully with the bacon.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in diced bell peppers or spinach for a color and nutrition boost. These veggies add freshness and texture, making each bite even more exciting.
Cheesy Goodness: Top your skillet with shredded cheese like cheddar or Gruyère before broiling. This cheesy layer will melt to perfection, making your dish even more comforting.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance—this will awaken the flavors and give it a zesty punch.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute regular butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter. This keeps the dish tasty, ensuring everyone can enjoy it without compromising on flavor.
Crunchy Topping: Finish with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or panko breadcrumbs before serving. Their crunch adds an exciting texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
Serve with Style: Pair your skillet with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze for added flavor and creaminess. It enhances each mouthful, elevating this comforting dish to gourmet levels.

Ready to make it a truly memorable meal? After trying these variations, dive into more delicious ideas like Savory Sweet Potato or Sweet Potato Fries. Your taste buds will thank you!

Storage Tips for Irish Bacon Potato Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the skillet is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: This Irish Bacon Potato Skillet can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy thawing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

What to Serve with Irish Bacon Potato Skillet

The joy of a hearty meal is often found in its companions, enriching every bite with new flavors and textures.

Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad adds a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm skillet, lightening the overall meal. The vegetables are a burst of color, making the table more inviting.
Buttery Peas: These tender peas bring a subtle sweetness, pairing beautifully with the savory bacon and creamy potatoes. Their bright green color also adds vibrancy to your plate.
Crusty Bread: Nothing beats the comfort of crusty bread to soak up those delicious bacon drippings. A slice alongside your skillet creates the perfect bite!
Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw elevate the dish, providing an enjoyable textural contrast plus a splash of acidity that balances the richness.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots complement the earthy flavors in your skillet and add a nutritious element to your meal.
Pint of Irish Stout: Enjoying your meal with a rich Irish stout enhances the entire experience, matching the savory notes of the skillet with its creamy texture and deep flavor.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides a decadent finish to your comforting meal, ending with a sweet touch that lingers on the palate.

With these delightful pairings, your Irish Bacon Potato Skillet transforms into a complete feast that nourishes the body and warms the heart!

Make Ahead Options

These Irish Bacon Potato Skillets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can dice the Yukon Gold potatoes and slice the onions up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh (adding a little water can help prevent browning). The bacon can be cooked and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply reheat in a skillet before adding to the dish. When you’re ready to serve, combine all the prepped ingredients in your skillet and follow the cooking instructions as normal—this way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors without the hassle on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for the Best Irish Bacon Potato Skillet

Choose Quality Bacon: Use thick-cut Irish bacon for a rich, smoky flavor. Avoid thin bacon, as it may not hold up well in skillet cooking.
Achieve Perfectly Crispy Potatoes: Allow the potatoes to cook undisturbed initially. This step is key for developing that coveted golden crust.
Taste as You Go: Remember to taste and adjust seasonings, especially since bacon can be quite salty. This ensures the perfect balance in your Irish Bacon Potato Skillet.
Don’t Rush the Cooking: Patience is crucial; give your potatoes enough time to cook through and achieve that nice crispy texture.
Mind the Heat: If things start to stick, don’t hesitate to add a little more butter or oil. This helps keep everything cooking smoothly while adding richness.

Irish Bacon Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for this dish?
Absolutely! For the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. Look for medium-sized potatoes and aim for ones that are firm and free from dark spots. If you prefer a different flavor, red potatoes work beautifully too, just ensure they’re diced into even 1/2-inch cubes for consistent cooking.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! You can store any leftover Irish Bacon Potato Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to maintain its freshness and flavor for your next meal.

Can I freeze the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Irish Bacon Potato Skillet, allow it to cool entirely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and luscious.

What should I do if my potatoes stick to the skillet?
If you find that the potatoes are sticking, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more butter or olive oil to the skillet, and gently scrape the edges with a spatula to release the stuck bits. This will not only prevent sticking but also add richness to the dish. Always keep an eye on the temperature; cooking on medium heat should prevent any burning.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, opt for a different type of bacon, such as turkey bacon, or try a plant-based alternative. Also, consider checking for any seasoning allergies, especially with garlic powder or smoked paprika, which can be adjusted or omitted as needed. Always communicate with your guests to ensure everyone’s preferences are taken into account!

Can I customize the seasonings in this dish?
Very much so! The beauty of the Irish Bacon Potato Skillet lies in its customization. If you want to add additional flavors, consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also increase the heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or make it sweeter with a dash of caramelized onions. Feel free to make it uniquely yours!