Old Fashioned Fried Potatoes are a simple, comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals from decades past. Made with just a few basic ingredients, this dish delivers crispy, golden-brown potato slices that are soft and tender on the inside. This recipe doesn’t require fancy equipment or ingredients, making it an affordable and satisfying way to enjoy the humble potato.
1. Old Fashioned Fried Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Paprika or garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and slice: Start by scrubbing the potatoes thoroughly under running water if you’re leaving the skins on. Peel them if you prefer skinless potatoes. Slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about ¼-inch thick. Slicing them evenly ensures they cook at the same rate, giving you consistent results.
Soak the potato slices (optional): For crispier potatoes, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for about 10-15 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which helps the potatoes crisp up better during frying. After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Choose your pan: Use a large cast-iron skillet for the best results. Cast iron retains heat well, which helps the potatoes fry evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown crust.
Heat the oil: Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the skillet. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers, but avoid letting it smoke. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you add the potatoes but not so hot that it burns them.
Step 3: Fry the Potatoes
Add the potatoes: Carefully add the potato slices to the hot oil in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this could cause the potatoes to steam instead of fry. If necessary, cook the potatoes in batches, adding a little more oil between batches if the pan becomes too dry.
Season the potatoes: Sprinkle the potatoes with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like paprika or garlic powder. The seasonings help develop a flavorful crust as the potatoes cook.
Fry the potatoes: Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes on one side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. Avoid flipping them too early, as this can prevent the potatoes from getting crispy.
Flip and cook the other side: Once the bottom side is golden and crispy, use a spatula to flip the potatoes. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Add the Onions (Optional)
Add onions to the skillet: If you’re using onions, add them to the skillet when you flip the potatoes. The onions will caramelize as the potatoes finish cooking, adding a sweet, savory flavor to the dish.
Stir occasionally: Stir the onions and potatoes gently, being careful not to break the potato slices. Let the onions soften and brown slightly, which usually takes 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Serve the Fried Potatoes
Garnish and serve: Once the potatoes are crispy and golden on both sides, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Serve immediately: Serve the fried potatoes hot, as they are best enjoyed fresh out of the skillet. Pair them with eggs for a classic breakfast, or serve them alongside baked meats, burgers, or as a side dish to almost any meal.
2. Variations of Old Fashioned Fried Potatoes
Loaded Fried Potatoes: Turn your fried potatoes into a full meal by topping them with shredded cheese, crisp bacon, sour cream, and green onions. This variation works great as a side dish for breakfast or brunch.
Garlic and Herb Fried Potatoes: For an herbaceous twist, add minced garlic and fresh rosemary or thyme during the last few minutes of cooking. The fragrance of the herbs combined with the crispy potatoes creates a flavorful, aromatic dish.
Spicy Fried Potatoes: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes on the potatoes while they fry. Serve with a side of sriracha or spicy ketchup for an extra kick.
Sausage and Potato Skillet: For a heartier meal, fry some sliced sausage along with the potatoes. The sausage adds a smoky, meaty flavor that complements the crispy potatoes perfectly. This variation is ideal for breakfast or a quick dinner.
3. What to Serve with Old Fashioned Fried Potatoes
Eggs: These fried potatoes pair beautifully with scrambled, fried, or poached eggs for a classic breakfast combo. Add a side of toast or biscuits for a complete morning meal.
Baked Meats: Serve the fried potatoes alongside baked steaks, chicken breasts, or pork chops. The crispy texture of the potatoes complements the savory richness of baked meats.
Burgers: Swap out French fries for these old-fashioned fried potatoes next time you serve burgers. The crispy, golden potatoes are a satisfying and delicious alternative.
Salads: For a lighter option, pair the fried potatoes with a crisp green salad, adding balance to the richness of the dish. The freshness of the salad offers a refreshing contrast to the crispy potatoes.
Roasted Vegetables: Fried potatoes make a hearty side dish for roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. The combination creates a colorful and nutrient-packed meal.
4. Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing: Leftover fried potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain some of their crispiness, avoid covering them while they’re still hot, as steam can make them soggy.
Reheating: To reheat, place the fried potatoes in a skillet over medium heat and cook until warmed through, flipping occasionally to crisp them back up. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the potatoes rubbery.
Old Fashioned Fried Potatoes are a timeless, comforting dish that’s simple to make and endlessly versatile. With just a few ingredients, you can create a crispy, golden-brown side that complements any meal. The combination of tender, fluffy interiors and crispy edges makes these potatoes irresistible, and they pair well with everything from eggs to baked meats.
