Bubble and Squeak is the ultimate comfort food—a delicious, crispy, golden-brown potato and vegetable dish that’s perfect for using up leftovers. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a satisfying side dish, this quick and easy Bubble and Squeak recipe will hit the spot. Best of all, it’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and requires only a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Bubble and Squeak Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal effort.
✔ Budget-Friendly – Uses leftover mashed potatoes and cooked veggies, reducing food waste.
✔ Crispy & Delicious – Golden-brown, crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside.
✔ Versatile – Perfect as a breakfast dish, side, or light meal.
Bubble and Squeak is a British classic with a history dating back centuries. Traditionally made from Sunday roast leftovers, this dish is named after the sounds it makes while frying in the pan!
Ingredients for Bubble and Squeak
Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple yet satisfying dish:
| Ingredient | Measurement (US) | Measurement (Metric) |
|---|---|---|
| Leftover mashed potatoes | 2 cups | 480 g |
| Leftover cooked vegetables (cabbage, carrots, peas, Brussels sprouts), chopped | 1 cup | 240 g |
| Chopped onion | ½ cup | 120 g |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | 30 g |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 30 ml |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | To taste |
You can use any combination of leftover vegetables. Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and carrots are traditional, but feel free to mix in peas, spinach, or even roasted potatoes!
How to Make Quick and Easy Bubble and Squeak
1. Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped vegetables, and onions. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until evenly combined.
2. Heat the Pan
Place a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil. Let the butter melt and start bubbling before moving to the next step.
3. Cook the Bubble and Squeak
- Add the potato and vegetable mixture to the skillet.
- Use a spatula to flatten it into an even layer, about an inch thick.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes, until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy.
4. Flip or Stir
- If you prefer a more structured dish, cut it into sections and carefully flip each piece.
- If you like a more rustic texture, stir occasionally to create crispy bits throughout.
- Cook for another 5–7 minutes until evenly browned and heated through.
5. Serve Hot
Bubble and Squeak is best served immediately. It pairs perfectly with fried eggs, bacon, sausages, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Tips for the Best Bubble and Squeak
⭐ Use Cold Mashed Potatoes – They hold together better and develop a crispier crust.
⭐ Don’t Overmix – A slightly chunky texture adds character to the dish.
⭐ Cook on Medium Heat – Too high, and it burns; too low, and it won’t crisp properly.
⭐ Use a Non-Stick Pan – Prevents sticking and makes flipping easier.
⭐ Customize It! – Try adding grated cheese, chopped herbs, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor
Serving Suggestions
Bubble and Squeak is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy it:
🥚 With Eggs – A fried or poached egg on top makes it a complete breakfast.
🥓 With Bacon or Sausages – Perfect for a full English breakfast.
🥗 With a Fresh Salad – Lighten up the meal with a side of greens.
🧀 With Cheese – Top with grated cheddar or crumbled feta for extra richness.
🍳 With a Fried Tomato – A classic British pairing!
Variations to Try
Bubble and Squeak is highly adaptable. Here are some fun variations:
1. Cheesy Bubble and Squeak
Add ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese to the potato mixture for a gooey, melty twist.
2. Spicy Bubble and Squeak
Mix in ½ teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
3. Vegan Bubble and Squeak
Use vegan butter or margarine instead of butter and swap olive oil for plant-based cooking oil.
4. Bubble and Squeak Patties
Instead of cooking it as one large pancake, shape the mixture into small patties and fry them individually.
5. Bubble and Squeak Frittata
Pour beaten eggs over the cooked mixture and bake for a delicious frittata-style dish.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 5g |
Bubble and Squeak is a great source of fiber and vitamins from the vegetables, making it a tasty yet nutritious meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using Too Much Oil – The dish should be crispy, not greasy. Stick to the recommended amounts.
❌ Not Letting It Brown Properly – Be patient! Let it crisp up before flipping.
❌ Overcrowding the Pan – A crowded pan won’t allow the mixture to crisp evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make Bubble and Squeak ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before frying.
2. Can I freeze Bubble and Squeak?
Absolutely! Cooked Bubble and Squeak freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pan or oven to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of mashed?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook and mash them first. Leftover mashed potatoes give the best texture.
4. What other vegetables can I use?
Any cooked vegetables work! Try spinach, sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even roasted bell peppers.
5. How do I make Bubble and Squeak without a non-stick pan?
Use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet and add a bit more oil to prevent sticking.
6. What does Bubble and Squeak taste like?
It has a crispy, golden crust with a soft, savory inside. The flavor depends on the vegetables used, but it’s always delicious!
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to make Quick and Easy Bubble and Squeak, why not try it today? Whether you’re using up leftovers or craving a hearty, home-cooked meal, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Experiment with different veggies, add your favorite seasonings, and enjoy this British classic in your own way!
Print
Quick and Easy Bubble and Squeak Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
Description
Bubble and Squeak is a classic British dish that transforms leftover mashed potatoes and vegetables into a crispy, golden-brown delight. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a side dish. This simple recipe ensures you get the best texture—crispy on the outside and soft inside—with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup leftover cooked vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, peas, Brussels sprouts, chopped)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 480 g leftover mashed potatoes
- 240 g leftover cooked vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, peas, Brussels sprouts, chopped)
- 120 g chopped onion
- 30 g butter
- 30 ml olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture – In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped vegetables, and onions. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Heat the Pan – Heat the butter and olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.
- Cook the Bubble and Squeak – Add the potato mixture to the pan and flatten it with a spatula to form a thick, even layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip or Stir – Flip in sections to brown the other side, or stir occasionally if you prefer a more broken-up texture. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until everything is crispy and heated through.
- Serve Hot – Remove from the pan and serve immediately. Enjoy it with fried eggs, sausages, or a fresh salad!
Notes
- Best Potatoes to Use: Cold mashed potatoes work best as they hold their shape better.
- Crispier Texture: Cook on medium heat and avoid stirring too often.
- Customizations: Add cheese, bacon, or herbs for extra flavor.
- Make It Vegan: Swap butter for dairy-free alternatives.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: British-inspired