Oh, where do I even begin with this **Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet**? This recipe is a love letter to the comfort of cozy breakfasts and the joy of gathering with friends and family. Every time I whip this up, I am transported back to those chilly mornings in Ireland where the air is crisp, and the aroma of warm, cheesy dishes fills the air. Trust me, nothing beats the satisfaction of a hearty meal that melds together flavors and is as satisfying as a warm hug on a plate!
This dish is one of my go-to meals when I want something that feels indulgent but also has a wholesome twist. Apart from potato, cheese, and cabbage, it requires minimal effort and is ready in just under an hour. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick midweek dinner, this skillet dish never fails to please the crowd. So, let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
What’s in Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet?
- Frozen hash brown potatoes: These form the hearty base of our dish, providing that perfect crispy texture. I always keep a bag stashed away in the freezer for those “I need comfort food” moments!
- Green cabbage: Finely chopped, this adds a wonderful crunch and a bit of sweetness that perfectly complements the cheese and potatoes.
- Irish cheddar cheese: The star of the show! I love using a sharp aged Irish cheddar for its rich, nutty flavor. It adds a lovely creaminess that makes the dish truly irresistible.
- Onion: Diced onions are sautéed to mellow their robust flavor and bring a sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cabbage.
- Green onions: These not only make a fabulous garnish, but they also add a fresh bite to the warm, cheesy dish.
- Olive oil: A splash of olive oil helps to sauté the onions and cabbage and gives the hash browns that lovely golden crispiness.
- Garlic powder: Just a dash adds a nice depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Paprika: A bit of this spice adds warmth and a slight smoky flavor, taking everything to the next level.
- Salt and pepper: Always a must to season our dish perfectly.
- Sour cream (optional): A dollop of this adds a delightful creaminess and a tangy contrast to the cheesiness!
Is Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet Good for You?
Well, let’s be real here—it’s comfort food, so we can’t exactly call it a health food! However, it does have its upsides. The cabbage contributes fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, promoting good digestion and overall health. Plus, this dish can easily be made vegetarian, simply by omitting any meat toppings you might be tempted to add.
The Irish cheddar cheese provides a good dose of protein and calcium, and let’s face it—a little indulgence now and then is what life is all about! Just keep in mind that if you’re watching your calorie intake, a smaller portion or a side of fresh veggies can help balance things out. Is it comfort food? Heck yes! But made with care and moderation, it’s a delightful treat!
Ingredients List
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely chopped
- 1 cup Irish cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
How to Make Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet?
- First things first, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Trust me; you want it nice and hot for that crispy finish!
- In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the finely chopped cabbage. Cook it for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s softened and giggling with flavor.
- In the meantime, grab a large bowl and combine your frozen hash brown potatoes with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is nicely seasoned.
- Add this hash brown mixture to the skillet, spreading it evenly over the cabbage and onion. Let it cook without stirring for about 5 minutes, allowing the bottom to get beautifully golden brown.
- Now for the best part! Top it all off with that glorious grated Irish cheddar cheese.
- Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the hash browns are crispy.
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a minute or two. Before serving, garnish it with those lovely chopped green onions for an added fresh touch!
Tips for Making the Best Hash Brown Skillet
- Feel free to personalize this dish! Add cooked bacon or sausage for a meatier option, or throw in your favorite veggies for extra color and nutrition.
- For a gourmet twist, try adding some herbs like thyme or rosemary that can elevate the dish even further!
- If you have leftovers (which seldom happens, but just in case), this hash browns reheat beautifully in the oven or even the microwave—just a splash of water in the microwave will keep it moist!
Honestly, I can’t recommend this **Irish Cheddar & Cabbage Hash Brown Skillet** enough. It’s a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for sharing, but good luck trying to keep everyone from fighting over the last bite! If you give this recipe a try, please let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your stories. Now, off to the kitchen with you!
