If you’ve ever longed for that classic homemade side that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re in for a real treat with the Best Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions: A Comforting Side Dish Recipe. This soul-satisfying combination of golden, crispy potatoes and sweet, caramelized onions is simplicity at its finest, bringing together straightforward ingredients for a flavor that’s anything but ordinary. Perfectly cooked in a skillet, this dish captures a balance of textures and aromas that will make it your go-to comfort food side again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity fool you—each ingredient plays a key role in bringing this dish to life. From the crispy potatoes to the aromatic spices, here’s what you’ll need to create that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: The base for frying that ensures a crispy, golden exterior without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 ½ pounds russet potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced): These starchy potatoes brown beautifully, giving a wonderfully crispy texture.
- 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced): Adds a sweet, slightly caramelized contrast that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smoky warmth that elevates the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances all the flavors and helps in drawing out moisture for crispiness.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra flavor): Stirred in at the end to introduce richness and a silky mouthfeel.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh, herbaceous pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Best Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions: A Comforting Side Dish Recipe
Step 1: Heat the oil and cook potatoes
Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully layer your thinly sliced potatoes across the skillet in a single layer. Resist the urge to stir—letting them cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes is key to getting that gorgeous golden crust on the bottom.
Step 2: Flip potatoes and continue cooking
Once the bottom side has crisped up, flip the potatoes over. This time, cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gentle turning helps prevent sticking or burning while allowing the potatoes to cook through evenly. Patience here pays off with irresistible texture.
Step 3: Add onions and spices
After the potatoes are nearly tender and golden, it’s time to add your sliced onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together so the spices coat each potato slice and onion strand. Let it all cook for another 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the potatoes are perfectly tender and the onions become golden-brown and slightly caramelized.
Step 4: Finish with butter and garnish
For an extra layer of indulgence, stir in a tablespoon of unsalted butter during the last two minutes of cooking. This adds a velvety richness that complements the crispiness beautifully. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm to enjoy the full comforting effect of your skillet masterpiece.
How to Serve Best Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions: A Comforting Side Dish Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is a simple yet effective garnish that brightens the dish and provides a fresh herbal note. You can also try a dash of flaky sea salt or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you want to spice things up.
Side Dishes
This recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of mains. Think juicy grilled chicken, a tender steak, or even alongside scrambled eggs for a cozy breakfast or brunch. The hearty flavor profile means it complements both vegetarian and meat-centered meals equally well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your skillet fried potatoes and onions topped with a dollop of sour cream or a fried egg. Alternatively, pile them into a warm tortilla to make delicious breakfast tacos that will wow your friends and family. No matter how you present it, this dish always feels like a crowd pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (and believe me, that happens because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining much of their flavor and texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze these potatoes and onions without the garnish. Pack them tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture might soften upon thawing.
Reheating
To bring back the crispiness when reheating, warm the leftovers in a hot skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave. This helps the potatoes regain some crunch and keeps the onions nicely caramelized, just like when freshly cooked.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes work wonderfully for a creamier texture while still crisping well. Just keep the slices thin and adjust cooking time as needed to ensure tenderness.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended to achieve the best crispy and uniform texture, but if you enjoy a more rustic feel, you can leave the skins on after giving them a thorough wash.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply skip the optional butter or substitute it with a plant-based butter alternative to keep things vegan without compromising on flavor.
How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?
Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for about 20 minutes before cooking removes excess starch, which helps achieve that coveted crispy edge. Be sure to pat them completely dry before frying to avoid sogginess.
What’s the best skillet to use for frying these potatoes?
A heavy cast iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat evenly, creating a beautifully crisp crust on the potatoes. Nonstick skillets also work well if you prefer easier cleanup.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Best Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions: A Comforting Side Dish Recipe enough—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a little celebration every time you make it. From its mouthwatering aroma to its perfect harmony of crispy and tender bites, this recipe shines as a trusty side for so many occasions. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a favorite in your home too. Happy cooking!
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Best Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions: A Comforting Side Dish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Best Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions recipe is a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. Thinly sliced russet potatoes and sweet onions are fried in vegetable oil with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until golden and tender. An optional addition of butter adds rich depth, and fresh parsley lends a pop of color and freshness. Ideal for a simple, satisfying accompaniment to your favorite main dishes.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Onions
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 ½ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra flavor)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Warm the vegetable oil in a large cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot.
- Cook Potatoes – First Side: Arrange the sliced potatoes in a single layer in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until the bottom side is golden brown.
- Flip Potatoes and Continue Cooking: Turn the potatoes over and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Add Onions and Seasonings: Add the sliced onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine.
- Cook Until Tender and Caramelized: Cook the mixture for another 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the onions are golden brown and slightly caramelized.
- Add Butter for Richness (Optional): Stir in the unsalted butter during the last 2 minutes of cooking for added flavor and richness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve the skillet fried potatoes and onions warm.
Notes
- For extra crispy potatoes, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 20 minutes before cooking, then dry thoroughly.
- Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a creamier texture and subtle sweetness.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on dietary needs.
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best crispiness, but a nonstick skillet will also work well.
