A Hearty, Golden Pan-Fried Omelet That’s Pure Comfort
This Spanish Tortilla —also known as Tortilla Española or Tortilla de Patatas —is a beloved staple of Spanish cuisine. It’s a thick, soft omelet filled with tender potatoes (and optionally onions), cooked slowly in olive oil until golden and custardy inside.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, tapas, or a quick dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧑🍳 Only 3 Ingredients: Eggs, potatoes, and oil—plus salt and optional onion for extra flavor.
- 🥣 No Fuss, No Fancy Tools: Just a skillet and a plate for flipping.
- 🍽️ Versatile Serving: Serve warm, cold, or at room temperature.
- ⏱️ Quick & Satisfying: Ready in under 25 minutes.
- 🌿 Great for Leftovers: Keeps well and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
- 1 pound (450g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes , peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow onion , thinly sliced (optional – but highly recommended)
- 6 large eggs
- ½ tsp salt (plus more to taste if needed)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup olive oil (for cooking – use good quality extra virgin)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
- Side of crusty bread or green salad
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes & Onion
In a large nonstick or cast iron skillet , heat olive oil over medium heat .
Add the thinly sliced potatoes (and onions , if using).
Cook gently for 10–15 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and just beginning to soften —not browned or crispy.
Tip: The potatoes should still hold their shape but be easy to cut through.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer everything to a bowl and let cool slightly.
Reserve about 1 tbsp of oil in the pan for cooking the tortilla.
Step 2: Beat the Eggs
Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl.
Add:
- Salt
- Black pepper
Whisk well until fully combined and slightly frothy.
Step 3: Combine & Rest
Pour the beaten eggs over the cooled potato-onion mixture.
Gently stir to coat all slices evenly.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes so the eggs begin to set slightly before cooking.
Step 4: Cook First Side
Return the skillet to the stovetop over medium-low heat .
Pour the egg-potato mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Cook for 5–7 minutes , gently shaking the pan occasionally, until the bottom is golden and set , while the top remains slightly runny.
Don’t rush this step—it’s all about low-and-slow for perfect texture.
Step 5: Flip Like a Pro
Place a large flat plate or lid over the skillet.
Carefully flip the tortilla onto the plate in one smooth motion.
Slide the tortilla back into the pan to cook the other side.
Cook for another 4–5 minutes , until the second side is also golden and the center is just set—not dry or rubbery.
Step 6: Cool Slightly & Slice
Let the tortilla rest in the pan off-heat for 5 minutes —this helps firm up the middle without drying out.
Slice into wedges or squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Success:
- 🥄 Use Room-Temp Eggs: Helps prevent lumps and ensures smoother texture.
- 🧂 Season Generously: Salt enhances flavor—taste before serving and adjust if needed.
- 🥣 Rest Before Flipping: Letting the first side firm up makes flipping easier.
- 🥘 Don’t Overcook: The center should stay slightly moist—it firms up as it cools.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Tastes great chilled or reheated—store in fridge for up to 3 days or freeze slices for later.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect on its own as a snack or appetizer.
- Ideal with crusty bread, olives, or a simple tomato salad.
- Great for lunch boxes, picnics, or late-night cravings.
Nutritional Information (per slice, serves 6 – approximate):
(Without garnish – based on regular olive oil and Yukon potatoes)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~2g
This Classic Spanish Tortilla with Potatoes is proof that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying. With its soft center, golden edges, and comforting blend of egg and potato—it’s a dish that brings people together across cultures and generations.
So go ahead and make this today… because once you try it—you’ll understand why it’s a Spanish favorite!
