Potatoes O’Brien Recipe: Colorful, Savory, and Breakfast-Perfect

Potatoes O’Brien is a classic skillet dish made with crispy potatoes, sweet bell peppers, and onions, creating a colorful and flavorful breakfast favorite. Simple yet satisfying, it’s a timeless recipe that pairs beautifully with eggs or stands strong on its own. Every bite delivers savory comfort with a pop of freshness.

1. How to Make

To make Potatoes O’Brien, parboil diced potatoes, then pan-fry them with butter, onions, and bell peppers until golden, tender, and lightly crisp.

2. Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 tablespoons butter or oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes
• Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

4. Step-by-step Instructions

1. Dice the potatoes into small, even cubes.
2. Boil the potatoes in lightly salted water for 5–6 minutes until just tender. Drain well.
3. Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the potatoes in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until golden.
5. Add onion and bell peppers, stirring gently to combine.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
7. Continue cooking for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and potatoes are crispy.
8. Remove from heat and garnish before serving.

5. Servings

• Serves: 3–4 people

6. Presentation & Decoration

Serve hot in a wide skillet or shallow plate. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness. Pair with fried eggs or toast for a complete breakfast plate.

7. Best Time to Eat

Perfect for breakfast or brunch, but also works well as a savory side dish for lunch or dinner.

8. Portion Guide

• Breakfast side: ¾–1 cup per person
• Main dish: 1½ cups per person

9. Storage & Shelf Life

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispiness. Freezing is not recommended.

10. Allergy Guide

• Contains dairy if butter is used
• Naturally gluten-free
• Can be made vegan using oil instead of butter

This Potatoes O’Brien recipe brings color, crunch, and classic flavor to your table, making it a breakfast-perfect dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Potatoes O’Brien ahead of time?
Yes, you can parboil the potatoes and chop the vegetables up to 1 day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then cook fresh for the best texture and flavor.

2. How do I make Potatoes O’Brien extra crispy?
Make sure the potatoes are well-drained and dry after boiling. Cook them in a hot skillet without stirring for the first few minutes so they develop a golden, crispy crust.

3. Can I add meat to Potatoes O’Brien?
Absolutely. Diced ham, bacon, or sausage can be added for extra protein and flavor. Cook the meat first, then add the potatoes and vegetables.

4. Are Potatoes O’Brien healthy?
They can be a balanced dish when cooked with oil instead of butter and served with eggs or vegetables. Potatoes provide energy, while peppers and onions add vitamins and fiber.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes. Simply replace butter with olive oil or another plant-based oil. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.