Why You’ll Love this Crispy Bubble and Squeak
There are three big reasons you’ll fall in love with this crispy Bubble and Squeak recipe.
First, it transforms humble leftovers into something genuinely crave-worthy. The contrast between the crispy exterior and soft, savory interior creates a textural masterpiece I can’t resist.
Second, it’s ridiculously adaptable. Don’t have cabbage? Swap in Brussels sprouts or kale. The recipe forgives and welcomes creativity.
Finally, that bacon topping. Those crumbled bits add the perfect salty finish to each bite.
I’ve served this for impromptu brunches and midnight snacks alike—it’s comfort food that works around the clock.
What Ingredients are in Crispy Bubble and Squeak?
What Ingredients are in Crispy Bubble and Squeak?
Bubble and Squeak might sound like a children’s book title, but it’s actually a classic British dish that makes incredible use of leftovers. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just a handful of ingredients transforms into a golden, crispy cake that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
I’m particularly fond of how the humble potato and cabbage become something so much greater than the sum of their parts when crisped up in bacon fat.
- 2 slices of bacon
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 medium potato, cooked and mashed
- 1/4 head cabbage, shredded and lightly steamed
While these four ingredients form the backbone of traditional Bubble and Squeak, don’t feel constrained by tradition.
The recipe originated as a way to use up leftovers, so it’s naturally flexible. If your mashed potatoes already have butter or milk mixed in, that’s perfectly fine.
Some folks like to add a pinch of salt and pepper, or even a dash of nutmeg for depth.
And if you’re wondering about the curious name? It comes from the sounds the cabbage makes while cooking – bubbling and squeaking away in the pan.
Quite charming, don’t you think?
How to Make this Crispy Bubble and Squeak
Making Bubble and Squeak is wonderfully straightforward, with a technique that’s all about developing those irresistible crispy edges. Start by cooking 2 slices of bacon in a large skillet until they reach peak crispiness. Remove those golden treasures, crumble them into bits, and set them aside—they’ll be the crowning glory later.
Don’t you dare wash that pan, though! All that magnificent bacon fat is about to become your secret flavor weapon.
Next, toss your sliced onion into that bacon-infused skillet and gently fry until tender and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Once your onions have softened, it’s time to add your star players: 1 medium potato (already cooked and mashed) and 1/4 head of cabbage (shredded and lightly steamed).
Press everything together firmly to form a large cake—think of it as a savory pancake of sorts. The real magic happens as you let it cook undisturbed until the bottom develops a beautiful brown crust. This is where patience pays off, my friends.
When that first side is gorgeously golden, carefully flip the entire cake with a spatula (a moment that always makes me hold my breath) and brown the other side.
The final touch is pure comfort food poetry: slide your crispy creation out onto a plate and sprinkle those reserved bacon crumbles over the top. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior is absolutely divine.
For a complete meal, serve your Bubble and Squeak alongside toast or eggs—or both if you’re feeling particularly peckish. Morning, noon, or night, this dish proves that sometimes the humblest ingredients create the most satisfying meals. Wouldn’t you agree?
Crispy Bubble and Squeak Substitutions and Variations
While traditional Bubble and Squeak relies on cabbage and potato, the beauty of this humble dish lies in its incredible versatility and ability to transform whatever leftovers you have on hand.
I often swap in Brussels sprouts when cabbage is scarce, or toss in leftover carrots for sweetness. No bacon? Try chorizo or even a vegetarian option with smoked paprika for that savory depth.
Sometimes I’ll add leeks instead of onions, or mix in a handful of peas. The trick is maintaining that crispy exterior while allowing the flavors to meld together.
Ever tried it with sweet potato? Heavenly, especially with a pinch of cumin.
What to Serve with Crispy Bubble and Squeak
Though Bubble and Squeak can certainly stand on its own as a delicious meal, pairing it with complementary dishes elevates this humble leftover creation to something truly special.
I love serving mine with a runny fried egg on top, letting that golden yolk create a luscious sauce that seeps into all the crispy nooks and crannies.
Want something heartier? Add sausages or a grilled tomato on the side.
For breakfast, toast is my go-to companion, while for dinner, I might add a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Truth is, this versatile dish works morning, noon, or night.
Final Thoughts
After cooking countless versions of Bubble and Squeak over the years, I’ve come to appreciate this humble dish as the ultimate kitchen hero.
It transforms leftovers into something magical—crispy on the outside, tender within.
What I love most? The versatility.
Switch up the veggies, add cheese, or try different herbs. The bacon and onion base creates that irresistible flavor foundation every time.
Remember, patience is key for achieving that golden crust.
Don’t rush the browning process.
