Easy Pan Fried Potatoes

Easy Pan Fried Potatoes Recipe

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Hello, potato lovers! There’s nothing quite like the crispiness of Easy Pan Fried Potatoes with a tender, fluffy center. Perfect as a breakfast side, snack, or even a main dish, these pan-fried potatoes are simple to make and deliciously seasoned. Let’s get started and turn basic ingredients into a golden-brown, flavorful delight!

Introduction

Easy Pan Fried Potatoes are a timeless dish that pairs well with nearly any meal. With a few Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes and some seasonings, you can achieve a tasty, crispy side dish. Whether served alongside eggs for breakfast, with a salad for lunch, or as a cozy dinner side, these potatoes are a go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients

To make Easy Pan Fried Potatoes, you’ll need:

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into ½-¾ inch cubes (Russet potatoes also work)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon fresh herbs, such as thyme, parsley, and rosemary

These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful, crispy, and satisfying potato dish.

How to Make Easy Pan Fried Potatoes

Follow these steps to create your own Easy Pan Fried Potatoes:

  1. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, vegetable oil, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until the potatoes are well coated with the oil and seasonings.
  2. Preheat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat until a drop of water sizzles on the surface. This ensures that the skillet is hot enough for frying.
  3. Cook the Potatoes: Add the seasoned potatoes to the skillet in a single layer. Let them sit undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes to develop a crispy golden crust on one side. Stir, then let them sit for another 3 minutes. Repeat this process a few more times until the potatoes are mostly golden brown on all sides.
  4. Add Herbs and Continue Cooking: Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning over the potatoes and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the herbs release their flavors.
  5. Cover and Cook Until Tender: Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, stirring every few minutes to prevent them from sticking or burning.
  6. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary over the cooked potatoes before serving for an added layer of flavor and a pop of color.

Helpful Tips

  • Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the potatoes in batches if needed. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming instead of frying, which prevents the potatoes from becoming crispy.
  • Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes both work well, but Yukon Golds add a buttery flavor, while Russets create a fluffier texture.
  • Heat Control: Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the potatoes while ensuring they cook evenly and crisp up nicely.

Cooking Tips

Here are some extra tips for making the best Easy Pan Fried Potatoes:

  • Dry the Potatoes: Pat the potato cubes dry with a paper towel before seasoning. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up more effectively.
  • Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For maximum crispiness, use a cast iron skillet if possible, as it retains heat well and creates a golden crust.
  • Don’t Stir Too Often: Let the potatoes sit undisturbed in the skillet to develop a crispy crust before stirring. Too much movement can prevent browning.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Pan Fried Potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them with scrambled or fried eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast. They also make a great side for lunch or dinner, especially when paired with grilled meats, fish, or a fresh salad. Add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle with chives, or even top with grated cheese for a more indulgent dish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional value for Easy Pan Fried Potatoes:

  • Calories: 220
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 310mg
  • Potassium: 600mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Vitamin A: 2%
  • Vitamin C: 15%
  • Calcium: 2%
  • Iron: 6%

These potatoes are a good source of potassium and fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying side dish option.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to help them regain some of their crispiness. Alternatively, microwave on medium power, but note that this will result in softer potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely! Customize the flavor with paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky touch.

How can I make these potatoes even crispier?
If you want extra crispy potatoes, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the seasoning mixture. The cornstarch helps create a crispy coating on the potatoes.

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, red potatoes or fingerlings work well too, but the texture may be slightly different. Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes remain the best options for this recipe.

If you enjoyed this recipe, try these related dishes:

Conclusion

And that’s it—your guide to making Easy Pan Fried Potatoes! With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe yields perfectly crispy, golden potatoes that are delicious any time of day. Try them out, and feel free to share your own twist on this classic. Enjoy!

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