Tortilla Española Recipe

Authentic Spanish Potato Omelet: Tortilla Española Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and full of rich flavor, look no further than Tortilla Española, or the Spanish Potato Omelet. This classic Spanish dish is known for its crispy yet tender potatoes, savory onions, and smooth, creamy eggs—all coming together in a warm, golden omelet. Whether served as a tapa, a light lunch, or dinner, it’s a versatile dish that’s bound to satisfy every craving. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

Did you know that Tortilla Española is one of Spain’s most beloved dishes? It’s often enjoyed in Spanish homes, cafes, and tapas bars, and has even earned the nickname “Spanish comfort food.” When I first tried making this dish, I was immediately hooked by its simplicity and deep, comforting flavors. With just a few ingredients, you can create something truly special. If you love Spanish cuisine like I do, you’ll definitely want to try this. Plus, if you’re a fan of recipes like Spanish Paella or Patatas Bravas, this will quickly become a favorite!

So grab your skillet and let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that will bring a taste of Spain right to your kitchen!

What is Tortilla Española?

Have you ever wondered what makes a Tortilla Española different from other omelets? It’s not just your regular egg dish—this is the Spanish version, which features tender potatoes and onions cooked in olive oil, and then bound together with eggs. But, why is it called “tortilla”? Well, in Spain, “tortilla” simply means “little cake” or “small cake,” referring to the shape and texture of the dish. So, in Spain, a “tortilla” is a delicious, savory dish made with eggs, unlike the flatcorn tortillas we might be more familiar with in Mexican cuisine.

Now, isn’t it funny how the same word can mean different things across cultures? But just like the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” the Tortilla Española is sure to win over anyone who takes a bite. With its rich flavors and versatile serving options, this dish has become a Spanish classic for a reason. Ready to bring a little Spain into your kitchen? Give this recipe a try!

Why You’ll Love This Tortilla Española

This Tortilla Española is truly a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in about 30 minutes with just a few ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up for a weeknight dinner or serve as a crowd-pleasing tapa at your next gathering. The combination of creamy eggs, tender potatoes, and sweet onions creates a comforting dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.

Another reason to love this recipe is its cost-saving benefit. Unlike many other dishes, Tortilla Española requires no expensive ingredients—just eggs, potatoes, onions, and olive oil. If you’re looking for an affordable, tasty meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this is your go-to. Plus, you can always scale up the recipe for larger gatherings or make extra to enjoy leftovers the next day.

Compared to dishes like Spanish Paella—which can take a bit more effort and a wider variety of ingredients—this potato omelet is much quicker and requires fewer items. If you’re short on time but still craving a taste of Spain, this dish is your perfect solution. Ready to give it a try? Let’s break it down!

How to Make Tortilla Española

Quick Overview

Making a Tortilla Española is surprisingly simple! With just a handful of ingredients—eggs, potatoes, onions, and olive oil—you can whip up a beautiful and satisfying meal in less than an hour. The key is in the cooking technique: gently cooking the potatoes and onions in olive oil before combining them with the beaten eggs and cooking everything together into a golden, creamy omelet. Serve it hot, or refrigerate it for later—either way, it’s delicious!

Key Ingredients for Tortilla Española

Here’s what you’ll need for a classic Tortilla Española:

4 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
1 medium onion (sliced thin)
6 large eggs
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for frying)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes and Onion: Start by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes. You want them to cook evenly, so try to keep the slices as uniform as possible. Slice the onion as well. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Cook the Potatoes and Onion: Add the potatoes and onions to the skillet, ensuring they’re coated with the oil. Stir them occasionally, allowing them to cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and slightly golden. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper as they cook. You want the potatoes to soften, not crisp up.
Beat the Eggs: While the potatoes and onions cook, crack the eggs into a large bowl and whisk them together until they’re well-combined and slightly frothy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine the Potatoes and Eggs: Once the potatoes and onions are cooked, carefully drain any excess oil from the skillet, then transfer them into the bowl with the beaten eggs. Gently fold everything together, ensuring that the potatoes are evenly coated with the eggs.
Cook the Tortilla: Pour the potato and egg mixture back into the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Cook over low to medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the edges start to set. Use a spatula to gently lift the edges to check for doneness.
Flip the Tortilla: This is the trickiest part! Once the edges are golden and the center is mostly set, place a large plate over the skillet. Carefully flip the tortilla onto the plate, then slide it back into the skillet to cook the other side. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through.
Serve: Let the tortilla cool slightly before cutting into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with a light salad or some fresh bread.

What to Serve Tortilla Española With

This Tortilla Española is delicious on its own, but it can be complemented by a variety of sides to make a complete meal:

Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, or lettuce and a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the tortilla.
Panzanella: A fresh Italian bread salad with tomatoes and cucumbers adds a refreshing contrast to the warm tortilla.
Tomato Soup: Pair the tortilla with a creamy tomato soup for a cozy meal combination.
Wine: A glass of Spanish white wine, like Albariño or Verdejo, pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the tortilla.

Top Tips for Perfecting Tortilla Española

Don’t Rush the Potatoes: Make sure to cook the potatoes slowly to soften them without browning them too much. This will ensure that they integrate well with the eggs.
Use the Right Skillet: A non-stick skillet is your best friend when making a tortilla. It will help the omelet come out intact when you flip it.
Flip with Confidence: Don’t be afraid to flip the tortilla! If you’re unsure, you can use a plate or large lid to help with the process.
Adjust for Flavor: Add herbs like parsley or paprika to the eggs for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Tortilla Española stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or heat a skillet on low heat. It can also be served cold or at room temperature, making it a great option for meal prep or picnics.

Recipe Schema Markup

Preparation Time: PT15M
Cooking Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Type of Recipe: Main Course
Cuisine: Spanish
Keywords: Tortilla Española, Spanish omelet, Spanish potato omelet, tapas recipe, egg recipes
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving

Recipe Ingredients:

4 medium potatoes
1 medium onion
6 large eggs
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper

Pros:

Simple, affordable ingredients
A comforting, satisfying meal
Can be enjoyed hot, warm, or cold
Perfect for meal prep or entertaining

Cons:

Requires patience to cook the potatoes properly
Flipping the tortilla may take some practice

Recipe Instructions:

Please refer to the step-by-step instructions above.