There’s something magical about the sizzle of steak hitting a hot cast-iron skillet first thing in the morning. It’s the sound of weekend luxury, of slow mornings with good coffee and better company. This steak and eggs breakfast skillet isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Imagine tender, juicy steak mingling with golden potatoes, sweet caramelized onions, and eggs cooked just how you like them. All in one glorious pan, because who wants to do dishes before their second cup of coffee?
Why This Recipe Works
One Pan to Rule Them All
From searing the steak to crisping the potatoes and cooking the eggs, everything happens in your trusty cast iron. Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your breakfast (or going back for seconds). The cast iron’s even heat distribution ensures perfect browning without hot spots—just be sure to preheat it properly to avoid sticking.
Protein That Sticks With You
With steak and eggs as the stars, this skillet delivers 42g of protein to keep you full for hours. The combination of iron-rich beef and nutrient-dense eggs makes this a powerhouse breakfast that beats any cereal.
Endless Customization
Not a fan of onions? Swap in mushrooms. Prefer sweet potatoes? Go for it. This recipe adapts to dietary needs and preferences effortlessly. The technique remains the same whether you’re using sirloin or splurging on ribeye.
Essential Ingredients & Tools
Ingredients for the Steak
- 12 oz sirloin steak (or ribeye for more marbling)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for higher smoke point)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Ingredients for the Skillet
- 2 cups diced russet potatoes (or sweet potatoes for variation)
- ½ cup diced yellow onion (shallots work too)
- 2 tbsp butter (or ghee for lactose-free)
- 4 large eggs (duck eggs for richer yolks)
Tools You’ll Need
- 10-inch cast-iron skillet (or heavy stainless steel pan)
- Tongs (fork works in a pinch but pierces the meat)
- Spatula (wooden spoon can substitute)
- Chef’s knife (any sharp knife will do)
Serves: 2
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 30 mins
How to Make The Ultimate Steak and Eggs Breakfast Skillet
Step 1: The Perfect Steak
- Pat that steak dry with paper towels—this removes surface moisture that would steam the meat instead of searing it.
- Season generously with 1 tsp kosher salt and ½ tsp black pepper, pressing the spices into the meat to form a flavorful crust.
- Let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to ensure even cooking from edge to center.
Now for the fun part:
- Heat your skillet until it’s smoking hot (test with a drop of water—if it sizzles violently, you’re ready).
- Add 1 tbsp olive oil and the steak, then resist the urge to poke it! Let it develop that beautiful Maillard reaction crust for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F internal temp).
- Transfer to a plate and let it rest while you work on the potatoes. This allows juices to redistribute—cutting too soon means all those flavorful juices end up on your cutting board.
Step 2: Potato Perfection
- In the same skillet (those browned bits are flavor gold), melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add your 2 cups diced potatoes and ½ cup diced onions, spreading them in an even layer. Sprinkle with salt to draw out moisture.
- Don’t touch them for 5 minutes—this undisturbed time creates the crispy exterior. Stir occasionally for another 5-7 minutes until tender.
Step 3: Egg-cellent Execution
Now comes the moment of truth:
- Push the potatoes to one side to make space for the eggs.
- Crack 4 large eggs right into the skillet. For sunny-side up, cover briefly to set the whites while keeping yolks runny. For scrambled, stir gently until they’re just set—they’ll continue cooking from residual heat.
The Grand Finale
Slice your rested steak against the grain (cutting perpendicular to muscle fibers for maximum tenderness) and nestle it into the skillet. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds color and freshness.
Pro Technique
The Butter Basting Trick
While searing your steak, toss in a tablespoon of butter with some crushed garlic and thyme. Tilt the pan and spoon that golden goodness over the steak repeatedly. This basting technique accelerates browning while infusing flavor—just stop before the butter burns (when it turns nutty brown).
The Reverse Sear for Thick Cuts
For steaks over 1.5 inches thick: bake at 275°F until 110°F internal temp, then sear. This slow-cooking phase ensures edge-to-edge doneness without a gray band.
Egg Mastery
Fresh eggs with bright orange yolks make all the difference. For silky scrambled eggs, remove them from heat while slightly underdone—they’ll finish cooking on the plate.
Ingredient Variations and Their Impact
Steak Variations
- Filet mignon: Wrap in bacon for added richness (cook 1-2 minutes less)
- Skirt steak: Marinate in lime and cilantro for a Tex-Mex twist
Vegetable Swaps
- Sweet potatoes: Toss with smoked paprika before cooking
- Mushrooms: Add earthy depth (deglaze pan with sherry for gourmet touch)
Egg Upgrades
- Duck eggs: Larger, creamier yolks take this to another level
- Add cream: For ultra-rich scrambled eggs
Perfect Pairings
Complementary Dishes
- Buttery sourdough toast: The tangy sourdough cuts through richness while soaking up every last bit of yolk and steak juice.
- Arugula Salad: Toss peppery greens with lemon vinaigrette to refresh the palate between bites.
Drinks
- Cold brew coffee: The bright acidity balances the savory flavors without overwhelming them.
- Pinot noir: A light-bodied red that complements rather than competes with the steak’s flavor.
Something Sweet
- Berry Compote: A spoonful of tart berries provides the perfect palate cleanser.
- Dark chocolate: Just one square of 70% cacao echoes the steak’s depth while satisfying sweet cravings.
Storage & Freshness Guide
Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat steak and potatoes in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying. Eggs are best eaten fresh but can be gently reheated in a nonstick pan.
Nutrition Profile
This isn’t just delicious—it’s nourishing:
- Protein: 42g (hello, muscle fuel)
- Healthy fats: 32g (for sustained energy)
- Complex carbs: 18g (from those golden potatoes)
Chef’s Wisdom
At the end of the day (or rather, the start of it), this steak and eggs breakfast skillet is about more than just food—it’s about taking the time to create something special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or someone you love, this dish says “today is going to be a good day.” Now go forth and make some breakfast memories.
The Ultimate Steak and Eggs Breakfast Skillet: A Cast-Iron Love Story
Make the ultimate Steak and Eggs Breakfast Skillet with tender steak, golden potatoes, and perfect eggs—all in one pan. Try this hearty weekend breakfast today!
Ingredients
For the Steak
-
12 oz sirloin steak
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tsp kosher salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
For the Skillet
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2 cups diced russet potatoes
-
½ cup diced yellow onion
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2 tbsp butter
-
4 large eggs
Instructions
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Pat steak dry and season with 1 tsp kosher salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Let rest 10 mins.01
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Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in skillet over medium-high. Sear steak 3-4 mins per side. Rest.02
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Melt 2 tbsp butter in same skillet. Add 2 cups diced potatoes and ½ cup diced onions. Cook 5 mins undisturbed.03
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Stir occasionally until tender (5-7 more mins).04
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Push potatoes aside. Crack 4 large eggs into skillet. Cook to preference.05
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Slice steak against grain. Add to skillet. Garnish and serve.06
