
Spanish Tortilla
A classic Spanish tortilla española featuring tender potatoes and onions gently cooked in olive oil, then bound with eggs to create a thick, golden omelet. This iconic dish is perfect served warm, at room temperature, or cold as a tapa or light meal.
Ingredients
- 1Yukon Gold Potatoes2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced ⅛-inch thick
- 2Large Eggs8 large eggs, room temperature
- 3Extra Virgin Olive Oil1½ cups extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for cooking
- 4Yellow Onion1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 5Sea Salt2 teaspoons sea salt, divided
- 6Fresh Ground Black Pepper½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 7Sweet Paprika¼ teaspoon sweet paprika (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Set aside to let the salt dissolve while preparing vegetables.
- 2
Peel potatoes and slice them ⅛-inch thick using a sharp knife or mandoline. Pat slices dry with paper towels and sprinkle with remaining salt.
- 3
Slice the onion thinly from root to tip for best texture and even cooking.
- 4
In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, heat 1½ cups olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 300°F).
- 5
Add potato slices and onions to the oil - they should be completely submerged. Cook at a gentle simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are very tender but not falling apart.
- 6
Using a slotted spoon or spider, carefully remove potatoes and onions from oil and drain in a colander for 5 minutes. Reserve the flavored oil for future use.
- 7
While still warm, gently fold the drained potatoes and onions into the beaten eggs. Let mixture rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 8
Heat 2 tablespoons of the reserved oil in a 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- 9
Pour the egg-potato mixture into the skillet, spreading evenly. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottom begins to set and turn golden.
- 10
To flip: Place a large flat plate over the skillet. In one quick motion, invert the skillet so the tortilla falls onto the plate.
- 11
Add a little more oil to the pan if needed. Slide the tortilla back into the skillet, uncooked side down.
- 12
Cook for another 3-4 minutes for a slightly runny center, or 5-6 minutes for fully set. The center should have a slight jiggle when done.
- 13
Slide tortilla onto a serving plate and let rest for 10 minutes before cutting. The tortilla will continue to set as it cools.
- 14
Cut into wedges and serve warm, at room temperature, or cold. Traditionally served with crusty bread and alioli.
Helpful Links
Tortilla Española Recipe - Serious Eats
Daniel Gritzer's detailed guide to perfecting Spanish tortilla technique
Best Spanish Tortilla Recipe - Spanish Sabores
Authentic Spanish tortilla recipe from a Spain-based food expert
Spanish Tortilla Recipe - The Mediterranean Dish
Mediterranean-style Spanish tortilla with helpful cooking tips
Spanish Tortilla - Simply Recipes
Beginner-friendly Spanish tortilla recipe with step-by-step photos
Egg-and-Potato Tortilla - Food & Wine
Traditional Spanish tortilla recipe from San Sebastián chef
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