Bubble and squeak

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There’s something wonderfully thrifty and comforting about a pan of bubble and squeak. Born from the tradition of using up leftover vegetables from a Sunday roast, it turns odds and ends—potatoes, cabbage, sprouts, carrots, or whatever you have lingering in the fridge—into a golden, crispy‑edged dish that feels far more delicious than the sum of its parts. As everything sizzles together in the pan, the vegetables soften, the potatoes crisp, and those little caramelised bits form on the bottom, giving the dish its signature savoury crunch.

It’s quick, unfussy, and endlessly adaptable, whether you’re clearing out the fridge or planning ahead for an easy brunch. Proof that leftovers can be every bit as satisfying as the main event

Serving Suggestions with Bubble and Squeak

  • Fried or poached eggs — the runny yolk is perfect with the crispy edges of the bubble and squeak.
  • Grilled sausages — a hearty, classic pairing for breakfast or brunch.
  • Crispy bacon — salty, smoky and ideal with the soft veg.
  • Leftover roast meats — beef, pork or chicken all work beautifully.
  • Baked beans — a simple, comforting option that turns it into a full meal.
  • Smoked salmon — for a lighter, brunch‑style twist.
  • Sautéed mushrooms — earthy flavours that complement the cabbage and potatoes.
  • Tomato chutney or brown sauce — adds tang and sweetness.
  • Green salad — a fresh contrast if you’re serving it for lunch.
  • Gravy — especially if you’re using leftover roast dinner bubble and squeak
Bubble and squeak

Bubble and squeak

Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Breakfast, Lunch
Cuisine British
Servings 2 people

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or a few sprays of fry light)
  • leftover mashed potato
  • leftover cabbage
  • 2 eggs
  • pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • Mix together the mashed potatoes and cabbage.
  • Heat the oil in a pan, when hot add the mashed potato and cabbage and flatten down like a pancake, or add them as two dollops.
  • Fry for a few mins on each side. Depending on the size of your pan add 2 eggs and fry (or add to a separate pan) once eggs are cooked to you liking, dish up together and serve with a dollop of ketchup along with a cuppa tea!