Crispy Fried Potatoes and Onions – A Comfort Food Classic You’ll Make Again and Again
Fried potatoes and onions are one of those timeless dishes that bring instant comfort. With golden, crispy edges, soft fluffy centers, and the sweetness of caramelized onions, this simple recipe transforms a few pantry staples into something you’ll crave. Whether served as a hearty breakfast side, a quick lunch, or part of a cozy dinner, these potatoes are guaranteed to win hearts at the table.
In this recipe, we’ll not only show you how to make the perfect fried potatoes and onions but also share the secrets to achieving that irresistible crispy-soft texture, along with delicious variations and serving ideas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients – potatoes, onions, and basic seasoning.
- Customizable – easily add herbs, spices, or other veggies.
- Budget-friendly – turns inexpensive ingredients into something special.
- Perfect for any meal – breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
For a family-size serving:
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes (Russets give a fluffy inside and crispy crust)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or sweet onions work best)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (can also use avocado or canola oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the potatoes
Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Keeping the pieces uniform helps them cook evenly.
Pro Tip: After cutting, place the potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 15–20 minutes to remove excess starch. This step makes them extra crispy. Drain and pat dry with a clean towel before cooking.
2. Chop the onions
Finely chop the onion. If you prefer sweeter, softer onions, slice them thin instead. This way, they’ll caramelize beautifully as they cook alongside the potatoes.
3. Heat the skillet
Use a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal for crispiness). Place over medium heat and add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
4. Start cooking
Add the potatoes and onions to the skillet in an even layer. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir briefly to coat everything in the oil.
5. Steam-soften the potatoes
Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes without stirring. This step traps heat and moisture, helping the potatoes soften inside while the bottom starts to brown.
6. Crisp and finish
Remove the lid, gently stir, and flip the potatoes to expose new sides to the heat. Cook uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy.
Pro Tip: Avoid over-stirring — letting the potatoes sit for a couple of minutes before flipping helps form that perfect crust.
Serving Ideas
- Breakfast: Serve alongside eggs, bacon, or sausage.
- Lunch/Dinner: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or burgers.
- Topping: Sprinkle with shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives before serving.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy kick: Add paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes.
- Herb lovers: Mix in rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
- Loaded potatoes: Top with sour cream, cheddar, and crumbled bacon.
- Garlic lovers: Add minced fresh garlic in the last 5 minutes for bold flavor.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture.
Final Tips for Perfect Fried Potatoes and Onions
- Use a large skillet so the potatoes aren’t crowded — overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the potatoes.
- Pat the potatoes dry after soaking to prevent splattering and sogginess.
- Adjust seasoning at the end, as some flavors can mellow during cooking.