Learn how to make the best skillet potatoes recipe with crispy edges and a creamy interior! These easy-to-make potatoes are seasoned with a flavorful blend of rosemary, thyme, and garlic, then fried to perfection in a cast iron skillet. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these potatoes pair well with eggs, roasted meats, or fresh veggies. Includes tips, variations, and serving ideas for a customizable side dish everyone will love. Keywords: skillet potatoes, crispy potatoes, cast iron recipes, seasoned potatoes, easy side dish recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¾ teaspoon dried sage
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Optional:
- 1 yellow onion, thickly diced
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
Instructions
Par-Cook the Potatoes
Achieving a soft, creamy interior while maintaining a crispy exterior starts with par-cooking the potatoes:
Method 1: Microwave
- Slice the potatoes into thirds.
- Place them on a large plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid. Microwave for 3 ½ minutes or until just fork-tender.
- Cut into small squares.
Method 2: Gentle Boil
- Slice the potatoes into small squares and place them in cold water.
- Slowly bring the water to a gentle boil.
- Cook for a few minutes, until just fork-tender. Drain and pat completely dry.
Season
- Combine the seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the mixture over the potatoes and toss with your hands to ensure even coating.
Cook Onions Separately
- Heat butter and olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the diced onion, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme sprigs.
- Let them soften and cook to your preference, reducing them as much as desired, even to a caramelized consistency.
Fry Potatoes in Batches
- Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat.
- Add the potatoes in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for airflow to ensure crispiness.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Use a silicone spatula to toss them gently, ensuring a variety of textures.
- Cook in batches if necessary, adding more oil/butter as needed.
- Remove fried potatoes with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Combine and Serve
- Once all potatoes are fried, return them to the skillet along with the cooked onions.
- Toss to combine, remove from heat, and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Incredible Texture: Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside.
- Versatile: Works as a side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite herbs and spices.
Tips
- Potato Choice: Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamier texture, while Russets crisp up beautifully.
- Pat Dry: Ensure potatoes are completely dry before frying to avoid steaming.
- Skillet Type: A cast iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution and crispy edges.
- Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to allow proper airflow and crispiness.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herbs: Swap the dried rosemary and thyme with parsley, dill, or chives.
- Onions: Use red onions for a sweeter flavor or shallots for a mild taste.
- Garlic: Add roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
- Spices: Try smoked paprika, chili powder, or cumin for a unique twist.
- Oil: Substitute olive oil with avocado oil or ghee for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, but they may require slightly less cooking time and will yield a softer texture.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness.
Q: Can I skip par-cooking?
A: Par-cooking ensures a creamy interior and crispy exterior. Skipping this step may result in unevenly cooked potatoes.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
A: Substitute with ½ teaspoon of dried thyme or leave it out entirely.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Pair with fried eggs, bacon, or sausage.
- Dinner: Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables.
- Toppings: Add sour cream, shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon for a loaded potato experience.
- Dips: Serve with ketchup, aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.
Skillet Potatoes Recipe
4
servings10
minutes20
minutesIngredients
2 lbs. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
2 Tablespoons salted butter
2 Tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning:
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
¾ teaspoon dried thyme
¾ teaspoon dried sage
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Optional:
1 yellow onion, thickly diced
2 Tablespoons salted butter
1 Tablespoon olive oil
2 sprigs fresh thyme
3 cloves garlic, smashed
Directions
- Par-Cook the Potatoes
- Achieving a soft, creamy interior while maintaining a crispy exterior starts with par-cooking the potatoes:
- Method 1: Microwave
- Slice the potatoes into thirds.
- Place them on a large plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid. Microwave for 3 ½ minutes or until just fork-tender.
- Cut into small squares.
- Method 2: Gentle Boil
- Slice the potatoes into small squares and place them in cold water.
- Slowly bring the water to a gentle boil.
- Cook for a few minutes, until just fork-tender. Drain and pat completely dry.
- Season
- Combine the seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the mixture over the potatoes and toss with your hands to ensure even coating.
- Cook Onions Separately
- Heat butter and olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the diced onion, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme sprigs.
- Let them soften and cook to your preference, reducing them as much as desired, even to a caramelized consistency.
- Fry Potatoes in Batches
- Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat.
- Add the potatoes in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for airflow to ensure crispiness.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Use a silicone spatula to toss them gently, ensuring a variety of textures.
- Cook in batches if necessary, adding more oil/butter as needed.
- Remove fried potatoes with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Combine and Serve
- Once all potatoes are fried, return them to the skillet along with the cooked onions.
- Toss to combine, remove from heat, and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
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