The Simple Recipe

prepare potato

Wash and peel the russet potato if desired. Cut into 1/2-inch dice so pieces cook quickly and evenly. Rinse the diced potato under cold water until water runs clearer to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.

par-cook (optional faster method)

Place diced potato in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons water, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 3 minutes to slightly tenderize. Drain any water and pat dry. (If you skip this, increase final pan time until potatoes are tender.)

cook

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tbs neutral oil and 1 tbs butter. When the oil shimmers, add the potato in a single layer. Let cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to get a golden crust, then stir or flip pieces. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, season with 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika. Continue to cook, stirring every 2–3 minutes, until potatoes are tender and evenly browned, about 8–10 more minutes total. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep warm on low heat while you finish eggs and proteins.

If using bacon: place bacon strips in a cold skillet in a single layer and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisped to your liking, 8–12 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. If using Edward's sausage links: heat a skillet over medium heat, add the links and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, 8–10 minutes (internal temp 160°F / 71°C if you have a thermometer). Keep warm with the home fries.

pan-fried eggs (sunny-side or over-easy)

Use a medium nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add 1 tbs butter and let it melt and foam. Crack 2 farm eggs into the pan. For sunny-side up: cook gently until whites are set but yolks still runny, 2–3 minutes; cover the pan for 30–45 seconds to finish whites if needed. For over-easy: once whites are mostly set, gently flip each egg and cook 10–20 seconds more for a runny yolk. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

If serving toast: toast your bread to desired doneness and spread 1 tbs butter. If serving biscuit: warm the split biscuit in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–8 minutes or in a skillet cut-side down for 1–2 minutes until warmed and lightly crisp, then butter the cut sides.

Arrange home fries (about 1 cup) on the plate, place the cooked eggs alongside, and add bacon or sausage. Add the buttered toast or biscuit. Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley over the eggs and potatoes if using, and serve hot with hot sauce or ketchup on the side.