Name: Fried Potatoes and Onions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Vegetable Oil (can substitute with canola oil, extra virgin olive oil, or avocado oil); 1 large Sweet Yellow Onion (sliced thin; aim for about 1.5 cups); 1.5 lbs Russet Potatoes (washed, dried, and sliced into 1/4 inch rounds; Yukon Gold potatoes work well, too); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Fresh Cracked Black Pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 tablespoon Fresh Chives (optional for garnish)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Fried Potatoes and Onions. This dish brings together the sweetness of onions and the heartiness of potatoes, making it a staple in many kitchens. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these crispy, golden bites are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Fried Potatoes and Onions should have a spot in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a side dish, a base for a hearty breakfast, or even as a topping for your favorite protein. Second, they require minimal ingredients, meaning you can whip them up without a trip to the grocery store. Lastly, they embody the essence of home cooking—simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a quick shopping list:

Vegetable Oil (1 cup; can substitute with canola oil, extra virgin olive oil, or avocado oil)
Sweet Yellow Onion (1 large, sliced thin; aim for about 1.5 cups)
Russet Potatoes (1.5 lbs, washed, dried, and sliced into 1/4 inch rounds; Yukon Gold potatoes work well, too)
Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon)
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon)
Fresh Chives (1 tablespoon, optional for garnish)

Equipment Breakdown

To make the magic happen, here’s a handy list of the equipment you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Frying Pan – For frying the potatoes and onions evenly.
Spatula – To flip and stir the potatoes and onions.
Knife – For slicing the onions and potatoes.
Cutting Board – To provide a safe surface for cutting.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.

The Method for Fried Potatoes and Onions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps for perfectly crispy Fried Potatoes and Onions.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and drying your russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Slice them into 1/4 inch rounds. If you prefer, you can peel them, but I love the added texture and nutrients from the skins. Next, slice the large sweet yellow onion thinly until you have about 1.5 cups.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, pour in 1 cup of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil hot enough that a small piece of potato sizzles when added.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Once the oil is ready, add the sliced onions to the skillet. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to become translucent and slightly golden.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes

Now it’s time to add the sliced potatoes to the skillet. Spread them out evenly and let them fry undisturbed for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps them develop a beautiful golden crust.

Step 5: Season and Stir

After the initial frying, sprinkle the potatoes with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of fresh cracked black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir gently to mix the seasonings and continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are crisp and cooked through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the potatoes are golden and crispy, remove the skillet from the heat. If you’re using fresh chives, sprinkle them on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

No-Store Runs Needed

You might be surprised to find that you can make Fried Potatoes and Onions with ingredients you may already have on hand. Here’s a quick rundown:

Potatoes – A staple in most kitchens.
Onion – A common pantry item.
Vegetable Oil – Most households have some form of cooking oil.
Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are often found in everyone’s spice rack.

Little Things that Matter

When it comes to preparing the best Fried Potatoes and Onions, small details can make a big difference:

Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding ingredients to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; this will help achieve that coveted crispiness.
Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like paprika, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of cayenne for heat!
Using a splatter guard can help minimize mess while frying.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to keep your Fried Potatoes and Onions fresh:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat to regain their crispiness instead of using the microwave.
You can also freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to a month, though they may lose some crispiness upon reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While russet and Yukon Gold are great choices, you can experiment with red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.

What if I don’t have garlic powder?

If you’re out of garlic powder, feel free to use fresh minced garlic instead. Just add it to the onions in the beginning to infuse the oil with flavor.

How do I make this dish healthier?

To lighten it up, you can use less oil or try baking the potatoes and onions in the oven instead. Toss them with a little oil and roast at 400°F until crispy!

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be great additions. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as some may require less time to cook than the potatoes and onions.

Similar Recipes

If you love Fried Potatoes and Onions, you might also enjoy these:

Time to Try It

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge and steps to create Fried Potatoes and Onions, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is perfect for any meal and can easily be customized to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving it to a crowd, these crispy, flavorful potatoes will always be a hit. So grab your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you!