Irish Cheddar & Potato Skillet

Name: Irish Cheddar & Potato Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 cup Irish cheddar cheese, grated; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh chives for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Recipe Ideas

I absolutely love making this Irish Cheddar & Potato Skillet, especially on chilly evenings when I crave something warm and comforting. The combination of creamy potatoes and sharp Irish cheddar creates a delightful harmony of flavors that always puts a smile on my face. Simple to prepare and delicious, it's become a favorite in our household. I enjoy serving it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen just as it has in mine.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-18T13:50:18.705Z

I've always been a fan of recipes that celebrate hearty ingredients, and this Irish Cheddar & Potato Skillet is no exception. When I first tried making it, I was amazed by how well the sharpness of the cheddar complements the creamy potatoes. I remember having it with friends over a cozy dinner, and it quickly became our go-to dish for winter gatherings.

To make it extra special, I like to add a hint of garlic and fresh herbs. Not only do these ingredients elevate the flavor, but they also fill the kitchen with an inviting aroma that makes everyone eager to dig in. This combination has truly turned this dish into a memorable experience for all.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy potatoes perfectly blended with sharp Irish cheddar
Hearty and filling, making it great for any meal
Easy one-pan recipe for effortless cleanup

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Irish Cheddar & Potato Skillet plays a critical role in creating the dish's perfect balance of flavors and textures. The potatoes act as the hearty base, providing a creamy consistency once cooked and a satisfying bite. Choosing the right variety, such as Yukon Gold or Russets, will enhance the creaminess and ensure they hold their shape while cooking. The sharp Irish cheddar gives the dish its signature flavor; use a higher quality cheese for best results, as it melts beautifully and complements the potatoes perfectly.

Onions and garlic add aromatic depth to the skillet. Sautéing them until the onions are translucent allows their natural sweetness to develop, enhancing the overall flavor profile. I recommend using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced or powdered garlic, as the flavor is more robust and fragrant. If you prefer a milder taste, you can also use shallots in place of onions for a sweeter, more delicate flavor.

Cooking Technique Tips

When cooking the potatoes, ensure your skillet is sufficiently hot before adding them to achieve that desirable golden brown color. A well-preheated pan creates a sear that locks in moisture, preventing the potatoes from becoming too mushy. If you find the potatoes browning unevenly, stir them more frequently to ensure even cooking. This balancing act between cooking time and heat is essential to achieving a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior.

Incorporating the cheese requires a gentle approach. Once you've added the cheddar, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. This traps heat and moisture, allowing the cheese to melt evenly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning or sticking; if you're using a non-stick skillet, this will make the melting process easier. Remember, bubbling, gooey cheese is the visual cue to know you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delicious skillet dish:

Ingredients

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup Irish cheddar cheese, grated
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives for garnish

With these ingredients ready, let's dive into the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Irish Cheddar & Potato Skillet:

Cook the Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.

Add Onions and Garlic

Once the potatoes are starting to brown, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Incorporate the Cheese

Lower the heat and sprinkle the grated Irish cheddar over the cooked potato mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped chives, and serve warm. Enjoy this hearty dish with a simple salad or crusty bread!

Now that you've created your delicious Irish Cheddar & Potato Skillet, get ready to enjoy its rich flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding cooked bacon or a splash of cream before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Irish Cheddar & Potato Skillet is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a cozy meal, pair it with a mixed green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish. For a heartier option, crusty bread or buttered rolls make a perfect accompaniment to mop up every bit of melted cheese and tender potatoes. Don't forget to sprinkle additional fresh chives just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

You can also turn this skillet into a brunch dish by adding a poached or fried egg on top. The richness of the yolk adds another layer of creaminess that elevates the entire dish. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also provide a lovely kick, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of heat!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts until warm. Just be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the potatoes to become overly soft.

For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet dish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers after cooling, ensuring no air pockets remain to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, then reheat as previously mentioned. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly, which helps restore some of the crispness to the outer layer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli for more nutrition.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the ingredients you use are gluten-free, this skillet is a great gluten-free option.