Fried Potatoes and Onions is one of the most beloved comfort foods, offering a perfect balance of crispy, tender potatoes and savory, caramelized onions. This dish is a simple yet satisfying side that pairs well with breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you enjoy it with eggs in the morning or as a side dish with steak or chicken, these fried potatoes and onions will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Fried Potatoes and Onions

✔ Simple Ingredients – With just a few basic pantry staples, you can create a delicious dish that’s full of flavor.
✔ Perfect Texture – The potatoes turn crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and tender on the inside, complemented by the rich flavor of caramelized onions.
✔ Versatile – This dish can be customized by adding different seasonings, herbs, or even extra vegetables for variety.
✔ Comforting and Filling – Whether served as a breakfast side or a dinner accompaniment, fried potatoes and onions are both hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes or slices)
• 1 large onion (sliced thinly)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any cooking oil of your choice)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and cut the russet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes or slices. For more uniform cooking, aim for similar-sized pieces. If you prefer, you can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients.
2. Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, which will help them crisp up better during frying. After rinsing, pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Step 2: Prepare the Onions

1. Slice the onion into thin strips or rings. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in water for a few minutes before cooking.

Step 3: Fry the Potatoes

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the diced potatoes in a single layer. Let the potatoes cook for about 5-7 minutes without stirring, allowing them to form a crispy crust.
3. After the initial cooking, stir the potatoes occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. This should take about 15-20 minutes depending on the size of the potato pieces.

Step 4: Add the Onions

1. Once the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside, push them to one side of the skillet.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the sliced onions to the empty side of the pan. Let the onions cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the onions are caramelized, stir them in with the potatoes.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan, and stir everything to coat the potatoes and onions with the melted butter.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Season the fried potatoes and onions with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor, if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy, golden fried potatoes and onions!

Cook Notes

• Choosing Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for frying due to their high starch content, which helps them crisp up. However, you can also use Yukon Gold or Red potatoes if you prefer a waxy texture.
• Onion Variations: Use yellow onions for a sweeter flavor or red onions for a sharper taste. You can also experiment with shallots for a milder, more delicate onion flavor.
• Oil Options: You can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil or canola oil, depending on your preference. For an extra layer of flavor, you can even use bacon grease or duck fat for frying.
• Crispiness Tips: Make sure the potatoes are dry before frying to get them crispy. The more moisture they have, the less likely they are to crisp up. Also, frying in batches helps to keep the oil temperature consistent, which contributes to a crispier texture.

Variations

✔ Herb-Infused Fried Potatoes and Onions – Add a teaspoon of rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the potatoes for a fresh herbal flavor. Fresh herbs are best added toward the end of cooking to maintain their bright taste.
✔ Cheesy Fried Potatoes and Onions – Once the potatoes and onions are cooked, sprinkle them with shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese and let it melt over the potatoes for an indulgent, cheesy twist.
✔ Spicy Fried Potatoes and Onions – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to give this dish a spicy kick. The heat pairs well with the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
✔ Vegetable Add-ins – For extra flavor and nutrients, you can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans to the skillet along with the onions. They’ll cook down and add extra depth to the dish.
✔ Breakfast Style – For a breakfast twist, add scrambled eggs to the pan toward the end of cooking. Stir everything together to create a savory potato and egg scramble.

Keto Version

To make this dish keto-friendly, replace the potatoes with turnips or radishes. Both vegetables have a slightly similar texture when fried and absorb flavors beautifully. You can also use zucchini slices if you prefer a lighter option. These low-carb substitutes still provide a satisfying dish with the same rich flavors from the onions and seasonings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Fried Potatoes and Onions in advance?

While it’s best to enjoy this dish freshly cooked for the best texture, you can prepare the potatoes ahead of time by slicing and soaking them in water. You can also cook the potatoes and onions a few hours in advance, then reheat them in the skillet or oven when ready to serve.

2. How can I make the potatoes crispier?

To make your potatoes extra crispy, make sure they are dried thoroughly before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches if necessary, and don’t stir them too often to let them develop a crispy crust.

3. Can I use sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes have a slightly different texture and flavor but will still crisp up nicely and pair well with caramelized onions.

4. Can I add other seasonings to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your seasoning mix. Add paprika, Italian seasoning, or cajun seasoning for a different flavor profile. You can also sprinkle with some cheese or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

Fried Potatoes and Onions is a timeless dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The crispy texture of the potatoes, the sweetness of the caramelized onions, and the savory seasonings come together to create a hearty and comforting side dish. With endless possibilities for customization, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves simple, delicious food. Enjoy it with your favorite main course or as a standalone treat that will leave everyone asking for more!