Go Back
A close-up view of a savory Frika (potato and cheese hash) dish, showing the browned potato and melted cheese.

Spicy Chorizo and Smoked Paprika Frika

This delicious Frika combines the bold flavors of spicy chorizo and smoked paprika with tender, crispy potatoes, all brought together with a generous topping of melted cheese. It's a perfect dish for a hearty breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup diced chorizo sausage
  • 1 small red onion finely diced
  • 3 large Russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan
  • slotted spoon

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, then remove with a slotted spoon, keeping the rendered fat in the pan.
  2. Sauté the diced red onion in the same skillet until softened.
  3. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet, season with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.
  4. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until tender and golden brown, ensuring a crispy crust forms by not stirring too often.
  5. Return the cooked chorizo to the skillet and mix it with the potatoes.
  6. Sprinkle both cheeses evenly over the potato and chorizo mixture.
  7. Cover the skillet or place it under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  8. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra crispiness, ensure the potatoes are not overcrowded in the pan. You can cook them in batches if necessary. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. This dish is excellent on its own or served with a fried egg on top for breakfast.