Fried Potatoes and Onions Recipe

There’s something special about comfort food that brings families together. This Fried Potatoes and Onions recipe has been a beloved tradition in many households for years, including in mine, where my husband has been perfecting it for over a decade. It’s a dish so delicious that if it’s made in one pan, it’s gone in a flash, and if two pans are used, it’s usually finished by lunch the next day! With its crispy potatoes, tender onions, and savory flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make this quick and satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare, yet packed with flavors that will leave everyone asking for more.

Why This Dish is So Popular

Fried potatoes and onions are a classic combination. The crispy golden-brown potatoes pair perfectly with the sweetness and softness of the caramelized onions. This dish is not just easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a side dish, breakfast, or even as a main meal if you want something filling. Plus, it’s the kind of recipe that’s passed down and perfected over the years, and once you try it, you’ll understand why.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this hearty and comforting dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4-5 medium-sized potatoes (preferably waxy or all-purpose potatoes)

2 large onions, thinly sliced

3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)

1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh or dried herbs (optional, rosemary, thyme, or parsley)

1/4 cup of crispy bacon bits or pancetta (optional for added flavor)

Chopped chives (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Then, peel the potatoes (optional), and cut them into small bite-sized chunks or slices. Make sure all the pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. If you’re using waxy potatoes, they will hold their shape better and crisp up nicely.

Soak the Potatoes
After cutting the potatoes, soak them in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This step helps achieve that crispy golden texture. If you’re short on time, a quick 10-minute soak will still help.

Fry the Potatoes
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the potatoes to the pan in a single layer, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and crispy on the outside. Be patient and let them cook without stirring too much to allow them to crisp up.

Add the Onions
While the potatoes are frying, thinly slice the onions. After the potatoes are golden, add the sliced onions to the pan and stir to combine. Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and caramelized.

Season and Enhance the Flavor
Season the potatoes and onions with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). You can also add some fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme at this point to give the dish more depth. If you’re using bacon or pancetta, add it now for that extra savory touch.

Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the potatoes and onions to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped chives for an added burst of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

As a Side Dish: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fried eggs, or even a hearty stew. It’s perfect for serving alongside steak, chicken, or pork.

For Breakfast: Fried potatoes and onions make a satisfying breakfast when served with scrambled eggs or sunny-side-up eggs.

As a Main Meal: You can also serve it as a stand-alone meal with a side of salad or bread for a simple yet fulfilling dinner.

Tips for Perfect Fried Potatoes and Onions

Get the Oil Hot Enough: One of the key secrets to getting crispy potatoes is ensuring that the oil is hot enough when you add the potatoes. If the oil is too cold, the potatoes will absorb more oil and become greasy instead of crispy.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, consider using two pans. Overcrowding the pan can cause the potatoes to steam rather than fry, which can affect their crispiness.

Seasoning Variations: Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste. Smoked paprika, chili flakes, or even a splash of vinegar can all add new layers of flavor to this dish.

Perfectly Crispy Potatoes: To achieve perfectly crispy potatoes, resist the urge to stir constantly. Let them sit for a few minutes before flipping to allow the potatoes to form a crispy crust.

Health Benefits of Fried Potatoes and Onions

While this dish is undeniably delicious, it’s not just about flavor – it also offers some health benefits:

Potatoes: A great source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, potatoes can be a healthy addition to your diet when eaten in moderation.

Onions: Onions are rich in antioxidants and contain vitamins like vitamin C and B6. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and can contribute to heart health.

Can You Make This Dish in Advance?

While fried potatoes and onions are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply toss them in a hot pan with a little oil for a few minutes to restore some of the crispiness. However, keep in mind that the potatoes may not be as crispy as when first cooked.

Variations to Try

Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) on top in the last few minutes of cooking.

Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Bacon Lovers: Fry some crispy bacon and add it to the dish for extra crunch and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Yes! Sweet potatoes can make a great alternative to regular potatoes, adding a slightly sweeter flavor and additional nutrients. The cooking process is the same.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the bacon with some sautéed mushrooms for added umami, and use vegetable oil or olive oil instead of butter.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Fried potatoes and onions are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat them. However, the crispiness will be reduced.

Conclusion

This Fried Potatoes and Onions recipe is a family favorite for a reason. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, breakfast, or main meal, it’s bound to be a hit. The crispy, golden potatoes and the soft, sweet onions are a combination that’s simple but incredibly satisfying. Once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your kitchen too. Enjoy!

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