Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly delicious side dish? Look no further! This Potato and Onion Skillet recipe is perfect for any meal. With its crispy, golden-brown potatoes and sweet, caramelized onions, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Follow these steps to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that your family will love.
Ingredients
- 5 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the Potatoes:
- Start by peeling the potatoes. Then, cut them into thin slices. The thinner the slices, the crispier they will become. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and perfect texture.
- Slice the Onions:
- Peel and thinly slice the onions. Thin slices will caramelize better and blend seamlessly with the potatoes. Caramelized onions add a sweet and rich flavor to the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Olive oil adds a nice flavor and helps achieve crispy potatoes.
- Add the Potatoes:
- Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet. Spread them out evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. A single layer of potatoes will cook more evenly and become crispier.
- Season the Potatoes:
- Sprinkle half of the salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme over the potatoes. Stir to coat them evenly with the seasonings. Seasoning at this stage allows the flavors to infuse into the potatoes as they cook.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn golden brown and crispy on the edges. The key is to cook them long enough to get a good crust without burning them.
Step 3: Add the Onions
- Add the Onions:
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet with the potatoes. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the onions. Onions add a depth of flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- Season the Onions:
- Sprinkle the rest of the salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme over the onions. Stir to combine. Ensuring the onions are well-seasoned helps them caramelize beautifully.
- Cook Together:
- Continue to cook the potatoes and onions together, stirring occasionally. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and the potatoes are crispy and cooked through. The onions should turn a rich brown color and the potatoes should be tender inside and crispy outside.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Check for Doneness:
- Make sure the potatoes are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. The onions should be soft and caramelized. Taste a piece to ensure the seasoning is to your liking.
- Garnish:
- If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Fresh herbs add a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Serve:
- Serve the Potato and Onion Skillet hot as a side dish to complement any main course. This dish pairs well with meats, fish, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Slices: Ensure the potato slices are uniform in thickness to promote even cooking. Thin, even slices cook more quickly and uniformly.
- Medium-High Heat: Maintain medium-high heat to achieve crispy potatoes without burning them. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
- Stirring: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, but avoid over-stirring to maintain crispiness. Over-stirring can break the potatoes and make them mushy.
- Fresh Herbs: For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme towards the end of cooking. Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match.
Variations
- Cheesy Potatoes:
- Sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) over the potatoes and onions in the last few minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese. Cheese adds a delicious creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Garlic Potatoes:
- Add minced garlic to the skillet when adding the onions for an extra layer of flavor. Garlic enhances the savory profile of the dish.
- Spicy Potatoes:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick. A touch of spice can elevate the dish and add complexity.
This Potato and Onion Skillet recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it a go-to side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a simple salad, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy the perfect combination of crispy potatoes and sweet, caramelized onions in every bite!
