The first sizzle of potatoes hitting a hot skillet brings back memories of cozy family dinners, where simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary. My favorite go-to side dish, these Skillet Fried Potatoes, boast a delightful crunch on the outside and a fluffy, warm interior—perfectly crispy and oh-so-comforting. Enhanced with the smoky depth of paprika and enriched by chicken broth, this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also elevates those humble potatoes into a flavor-packed companion for any meal. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these skillet fried potatoes fit seamlessly into your table. Ready to see how a few simple ingredients can create something magical? Let’s dive in!
Why are these potatoes a must-try?
Unbeatable Crispiness: The secret to mouthwatering skillet fried potatoes lies in achieving that perfect golden crust!
Flavor-Packed: Enhanced with robust garlic, smoked paprika, and rich chicken broth, these flavors blend beautifully for a savory sensation.
Quick and Easy: With just a few straightforward steps, you can have a hearty side dish ready in no time. Just a bit of prep, and you’re set!
Versatile Pairing: Whether alongside breakfast eggs, grilled chicken, or a cozy holiday roast, these potatoes elevate any meal. They truly are the ideal side!
Make Ahead-Friendly: Store extras in the fridge and reheat them later for a quick, satisfying bite. To keep that crispy texture, follow our handy reheating tips!
This comforting dish is bound to impress guests and loved ones alike. Perfect for any occasion, don’t miss out on these delicious skillet fried potatoes!
Skillet Fried Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Medium-sized potatoes – 6, sliced in half and then into 1/8 inch slices; for a sweet twist, you can substitute with sweet potatoes.
For Cooking
• Butter – 5 tbsp, divided; olive oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
• Onion – 1, sliced; shallots can offer a milder flavor or omit for simplicity.
For Flavoring
• Chicken broth – 1/2 cup; vegetable broth or water can be substituted, although they won’t impart as much richness.
• Paprika – 1 tsp; opt for smoked paprika if you desire a stronger smokiness.
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp; feel free to use fresh garlic for a more robust taste, adjusting as needed.
• Salt and pepper – to taste; season according to your preference for the perfect skillet fried potatoes flavor!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Skillet Fried Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Begin by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Ensure the butter is fully melted and bubbly, which will create the perfect base for the skillet fried potatoes. A cast iron skillet works best for achieving that desired crispy texture, so grab your trusted skillet and get ready!
Step 2: Add the Potatoes
Once the butter is hot, carefully add the sliced potatoes into the skillet, spreading them evenly across the bottom. Avoid stirring them for the first 10 minutes to allow the potatoes to develop a golden, crispy crust. You should hear a satisfying sizzle, which indicates that the potatoes are cooking properly.
Step 3: Seasoning and Onions
After the initial 10 minutes, gently stir the potatoes, then add the sliced onion, salt, pepper, and paprika to the mix. Stir everything to evenly coat the potatoes, and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add the Chicken Broth
Once the potatoes have softened, pour in the chicken broth and give everything a gentle stir. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in small cubes on top. Cover the skillet again and let it cook until the chicken broth is absorbed, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fluffy and tender, with a rich flavor infused throughout.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the skillet fried potatoes before serving and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as necessary. Once perfectly seasoned, remove the skillet from heat and serve immediately. You’ll have beautifully golden-brown, crispy potatoes, ready to complement any meal with their comforting flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Skillet Fried Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover skillet fried potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh while preventing any lingering odors in your fridge.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze skillet fried potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a touch of butter or olive oil to revive that delicious crunch!
Make-Ahead Option: Consider preparing a large batch and storing them. Perfect for quick meals or snacks while still enjoying that comforting flavor!
Skillet Fried Potatoes Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these skillet fried potatoes to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Sweet Potato Delight: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness and a burst of color.
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Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with olive oil to make these crispy delights a dairy-free dish perfect for everyone at the table.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process for an aromatic lift that complements the flavor beautifully.
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Cheesy Goodness: For a rich twist, sprinkle shredded cheese over the potatoes in the last few minutes of cooking until it melts into a gooey topping.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to bring some heat that’ll tantalize your taste buds!
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Veggie Boost: Mix in diced bell peppers or zucchini for a veggie-packed version that adds vibrant color and flavors to your skillet.
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic powder or add freshly minced garlic during the last few minutes of cooking to amp up the savory goodness.
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Making Air Potatoes: For even more versatility, try exploring Making Air Potatoes for an air-fried twist on this classic comfort food. It’s a delightful way to enjoy crispiness without the oil!
Let’s embrace the magic of cooking, one flavorful twist at a time!
Make Ahead Options
These crispy skillet fried potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade food even on your busiest days! You can slice the potatoes and store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. Additionally, you can also chop the onions and measure out your seasonings ahead of time, keeping everything refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions from the beginning, as the flavor will remain just as vibrant and satisfying. With these make ahead tips, you’ll have a comforting side dish ready with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Crispy Skillet Fried Potatoes?
These crispy treats bring warmth and comfort to every meal, turning any dining experience into a cozy gathering.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, flavorful chicken pairs beautifully, enhancing the comforting essence of skillet fried potatoes while adding protein to balance the plate.
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Fried Eggs: Imagine a sunny-side-up egg nestled atop your potatoes, the runny yolk mingling with their crisp exterior for a deliciously rich bite.
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Sautéed Greens: Bright sautéed spinach or kale adds fresh color and a nutritious crunch, providing a vibrant counterpoint to the hearty potatoes.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings a crunchy, tangy element, balancing the richness of the fried potatoes in every delicious mouthful.
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Apple Sauce: The sweet and tart notes of apple sauce make for a delightful contrast, offering a nostalgic pairing often found in classic comfort meals.
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Herb-Infused Grilled Steak: A tender, herb-seasoned steak elevates your meal to new heights, creating a hearty combination of flavors that complement the potatoes perfectly.
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Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are an inviting addition on the table, perfect for mopping up the rich flavors and adding a delightful buttery layer to your dish.
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Sweet Tea: A tall glass of sweet tea offers a refreshing, Southern-inspired drink that lightens the meal, perfectly complementing the savory, crispy potatoes.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, indulge in warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies—discover the balance of flavors, ending your meal on a sweet note!
Expert Tips for Skillet Fried Potatoes
Use Quality Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is vital for even cooking and achieving that perfect crispiness with your skillet fried potatoes.
Don’t Rush the Process: Allow the potatoes to sit without stirring for the first 10 minutes to ensure a great golden crust. Constant stirring will prevent the crunchiness you crave.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go. This step maximizes the flavorful potential of your skillet fried potatoes, ensuring they’re just right before serving.
Sauté Onions Perfectly: Add onions after the potatoes have started to brown; this gives them time to caramelize beautifully without burning.
Customize Your Dish: Feel free to experiment with spices and add-ins, like bell peppers or fresh herbs, to take your skillet fried potatoes to the next level!
Skillet Fried Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for skillet fried potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best skillet fried potatoes, look for medium-sized russet or Yukon Gold potatoes as they hold their shape and have a starchy texture that fries beautifully. When selecting, ensure they are firm with minimal dark spots or blemishes. If you’re feeling adventurous, sweet potatoes can be a delightful substitute, offering a sweeter flavor profile.
How should I store leftover skillet fried potatoes?
Store any leftover skillet fried potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep them fresh and prevents them from absorbing other flavors in your fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or olive oil to restore their crispy texture!
Can I freeze skillet fried potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the cooked skillet fried potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until they are frozen solid. Then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag, sealing it tightly. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results upon reheating, thaw them overnight in the fridge before warming them up in a skillet.
What if my skillet fried potatoes don’t get crispy?
If your skillet fried potatoes aren’t achieving that desired crispiness, there are a couple of troubleshooting tips. Firstly, ensure you’re using a heavy-bottomed skillet—cast iron is ideal. Secondly, avoid stirring the potatoes too frequently in the initial cooking phase; this is crucial for forming that golden crust. If they seem too oily, you can also reduce the amount of butter or oil used next time.
Are skillet fried potatoes suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily adapt skillet fried potatoes for various dietary considerations. For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the butter with olive oil. Additionally, if you’re looking to reduce sodium, you can opt for low-sodium chicken broth or even vegetable broth. Just be mindful if anyone at your table has allergies, particularly to onions, which you can omit or replace with shallots for a milder flavor.
Crispy Skillet Fried Potatoes Perfect for Comfort Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
- Once the butter is hot, carefully add the sliced potatoes into the skillet, spreading them evenly across the bottom.
- After the initial 10 minutes, gently stir the potatoes, then add the sliced onion, salt, pepper, and paprika to the mix.
- Once the potatoes have softened, pour in the chicken broth and give everything a gentle stir.
- Taste the skillet fried potatoes before serving and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as necessary.
