This Spanish-inspired Potato, Spinach, and Cheese Egg Skillet is the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve created a masterpiece with the simplest of ingredients. It’s hearty yet wholesome, comforting but not too heavy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Imagine tender potatoes, fragrant onions, fresh spinach, and a creamy egg mixture, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella. It’s like a cross between a Spanish tortilla and a crustless quiche—easy enough for a weekday meal, yet special enough to serve at brunch when you want to impress. The best part? You only need one pan to make it, which means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying the food. This recipe delivers big comfort and nutrition in a simple, rustic package.
Full Recipe
Ingredients
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450 grams (1 lb) potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 onion, finely chopped
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250 grams spinach, washed and chopped
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4 eggs
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4 tablespoons cream cheese
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Salt, to taste
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Granulated garlic, to taste
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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150 grams (5 oz) pizza mozzarella, grated
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Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
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Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
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Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent.
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Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with salt and granulated garlic.
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In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, cream cheese, and baking powder until well combined.
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Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the spinach and onion mixture.
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Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and cook over medium-low heat, stirring gently, until the eggs are partially set.
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Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
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Cover with a lid and cook until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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Serve hot and enjoy your Spanish-inspired dish.
Nutrients (per serving, approx. 1 of 4)
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Calories: 280 kcal
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Protein: 14 g
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Fat: 16 g
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Carbohydrates: 20 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Calcium: 180 mg
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Iron: 2 mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this dish for its balance of flavor, texture, and ease. The potatoes give a soft, hearty base while the spinach adds freshness and color. The cream cheese enriches the eggs, giving them a fluffy yet creamy texture, while the mozzarella melts into that irresistible golden topping. It’s also incredibly versatile—great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, it works perfectly for meal prep since it reheats well.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
This recipe draws its inspiration from the classic Spanish tortilla de patatas, a beloved dish made with eggs and potatoes. While traditional tortillas are thicker and cooked more slowly, this version takes on a modern twist with the addition of spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella. It’s a fusion of Spanish rustic charm and contemporary comfort cooking, bridging the gap between traditional cuisine and everyday convenience.
Ingredient Spotlight
Potatoes: The heart of the dish, bringing bulk, creaminess, and comfort.
Spinach: Adds a boost of nutrients, freshness, and beautiful green color.
Eggs: The binder that turns simple ingredients into a cohesive meal.
Cream Cheese: Adds richness and a creamy, tangy undertone to the eggs.
Mozzarella: Melts into gooey, stretchy perfection for that satisfying cheesy topping.
Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that create depth of flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, let the skillet cool completely before storing. Place slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the eggs rubbery. For longer storage, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 1 month—just thaw overnight before reheating.
Common Variations to Try
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Meaty Twist: Add diced cooked ham, chorizo, or crispy bacon.
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Extra Veggies: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more variety.
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Cheese Lovers: Try Gruyère, cheddar, or feta instead of mozzarella.
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Herbal Kick: Add fresh parsley, dill, or chives for a bright finish.
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Spicy Touch: Stir in chili flakes or smoked paprika for heat and smokiness.
Pairing Recommendations
This skillet pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy egg mixture. For beverages, pair with freshly squeezed orange juice for breakfast, iced tea for lunch, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for dinner.
Health Benefits
This dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Potatoes provide potassium and slow-release carbohydrates for energy. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Eggs deliver high-quality protein, while mozzarella and cream cheese add calcium for strong bones. With a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this skillet makes a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
The Spanish-Inspired Potato, Spinach, and Cheese Egg Skillet is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent. It’s simple, rustic, and versatile, making it perfect for any meal of the day. Each bite combines the comfort of potatoes, the freshness of spinach, and the richness of cheese, all bound together in creamy eggs. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this skillet dish will win hearts and appetites every time. It’s a recipe to keep close for those times when you want a meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and deeply satisfying.