There is something truly magical about waking up to a skillet of Colorful Breakfast Potatoes with Bacon, Bell Peppers, and Maple Glaze Recipe sizzling on the stove. This dish blends the hearty comfort of golden and red potatoes with the smoky crunch of bacon, the vibrant pop of red and orange bell peppers, and a subtle sweetness from a luscious maple glaze. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it the perfect way to brighten your morning or add a splash of color and excitement to any brunch gathering. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite breakfast traditions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples, yet they come together to create an unforgettable medley of color, taste, and texture. Each component plays a vital role — from crispy golden potatoes adding an earthy base, to sweet bell peppers injecting freshness and brightness, and crispy bacon offering savory depth. The maple glaze ties everything together with a perfect hint of sweetness.
- 3 medium golden potatoes: Starchy and creamy, these give the dish a fluffy interior when cooked just right.
- 3 medium red potatoes: Slightly waxy and firm, they hold their shape beautifully and add color contrast.
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped): A dash of sweetness and vibrant red hue to brighten the skillet.
- 1 orange bell pepper (chopped): Adds a sweet, citrusy flavor and stunning color for visual appeal.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more if needed): Essential for crisping potatoes and melding flavors without overpowering.
- 4 pieces bacon: Smoky, salty, and crispy – this is the flavor hero of the recipe.
- 2 minced garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup: A natural sweetness that perfectly balances the savory components.
- Parsley for garnish: Freshens and adds a pop of green that enhances presentation.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Seasoning that brings out all the natural flavors evenly.
- 2 teaspoons crushed black pepper: Adds a little bite and spice to awaken your palate.
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay spice: A secret blend that delivers complexity and a gentle, aromatic heat.
How to Make Colorful Breakfast Potatoes with Bacon, Bell Peppers, and Maple Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing the golden and red potatoes thoroughly, then dice them into 1-inch cubes. This size ensures they cook evenly and get a lovely golden crust while remaining tender inside. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture — this little detail guarantees maximum crispiness later on.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they reach crispy perfection. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain, but keep the rendered fat in the pan; it will infuse your potatoes with incredible smoky goodness when you add them next.
Step 3: Sauté the Potatoes
Add the olive oil to the bacon fat in the skillet, then toss in the diced potatoes. Sprinkle with kosher salt, crushed black pepper, and Old Bay spice. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for about 12 minutes until the potatoes develop a crispy exterior and tender center. Don’t rush this step — patience results in the best texture.
Step 4: Add the Bell Peppers and Garlic
Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, stir in the chopped red and orange bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until the peppers soften but retain their bright color and crunch, while the garlic releases its fragrant aroma without burning.
Step 5: Finish with Bacon and Maple Glaze
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Drizzle the two tablespoons of pure maple syrup evenly over everything and gently toss to combine. The maple glaze will coat the potatoes, peppers, and bacon with a shiny, sweet finish that elevates every bite.
How to Serve Colorful Breakfast Potatoes with Bacon, Bell Peppers, and Maple Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a burst of herbal brightness and beautiful contrast to the rich and colorful ingredients below. For an extra touch, grate some sharp cheddar or crumble feta cheese over the dish to add creaminess and depth.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of complements. Try serving it alongside fluffy scrambled eggs, creamy avocado slices, or even a juicy grilled sausage. For a lighter option, a fresh fruit salad balances the savory and sweet notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, serve your breakfast potatoes in a cast iron skillet right at the table to keep them warm and impressive. You can also portion them into individual ramekins topped with a poached egg for an elegant presentation that invites guests to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic option for quick breakfasts later in the week.
Freezing
While freezing cooked breakfast potatoes can sometimes affect texture, this recipe freezes surprisingly well. Spread the cooled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 1 month for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the potatoes in a preheated skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or butter to revive their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make potatoes soggy. Gently warm until heated through and crispy on the edges.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes in this recipe?
Absolutely! Russet potatoes or Yukon golds can work well, but balancing starchy and waxy types ensures your potatoes get both fluffy interiors and crispy exteriors.
Is it necessary to use Old Bay spice?
Old Bay provides a subtle complexity and a little heat that enhances the dish, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with smoked paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of celery salt.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and add a bit more olive oil or some smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or tempeh bacon as delicious alternatives.
How sweet will the maple glaze be?
The maple syrup adds just a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements without overpowering them. If you prefer sweeter, add a touch more to taste.
What’s the best way to chop the bell peppers?
Chop the bell peppers into roughly ½-inch pieces so they cook quickly but still retain a bit of crunch and maintain their vibrant colors.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a breakfast that bursts with color, flavor, and heartwarming comfort, the Colorful Breakfast Potatoes with Bacon, Bell Peppers, and Maple Glaze Recipe is your new go-to. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and such a joy to share with friends and family. Give it a try, and watch how this colorful skillet brightens not just your plate but your whole morning.
Print
Colorful Breakfast Potatoes with Bacon, Bell Peppers, and Maple Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe for Breakfast Potatoes combines golden and red potatoes with vibrant bell peppers and crispy bacon, all seasoned perfectly with garlic, Old Bay spice, and a touch of maple syrup for a sweet and savory start to your day. Garnished with fresh parsley, these potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, making them a delicious and hearty breakfast side dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 medium golden potatoes, diced
- 3 medium red potatoes, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 orange bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Parsley for garnish
Meat
- 4 pieces bacon
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more if needed)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons crushed black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay spice
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and dice the golden and red potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for better crispiness during cooking.
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until crispy. Once done, remove bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet for cooking the potatoes.
- Sauté the potatoes: Add olive oil to the skillet with bacon fat if needed. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until they start to become golden and crispy.
- Add peppers and garlic: Add the chopped red and orange bell peppers and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the peppers are tender and potatoes are cooked through.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle the kosher salt, crushed black pepper, and Old Bay spice evenly over the potatoes and peppers. Stir well to coat all ingredients with the spices.
- Add maple syrup: Drizzle the pure maple syrup over the mixture and stir quickly to blend the sweet flavor with the savory spices.
- Crumble bacon and combine: Crumble the cooked bacon pieces and stir them into the potato mixture. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot as a delicious breakfast side or main dish.
Notes
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup amount or omit it entirely.
- You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative to make this recipe lighter or vegetarian.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and achieve the best crispiness.
- Feel free to add onions or other vegetables like mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.
- This dish reheats well and can be made ahead for busy mornings.
