Fried Potatoes and Onions is a simple yet delicious dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a savory side that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of main courses. This dish is not only easy to make but also offers a satisfying combination of crispy potatoes and sweet onions.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Fried Potatoes and Onions is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick, tasty side dish. It uses common ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The frying process gives the potatoes a wonderful golden color and crispy texture, while the onions add a hint of sweetness. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
How to Make Fried Potatoes and Onions
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 large yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Start by slicing the potatoes into approximately 1/4 inch rounds. Then, thinly slice the onion.
- Pat the sliced potatoes thoroughly dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet and cook without moving them for several minutes to get a nice browning.
- Once they start browning, turn them over and cook on the other side.
- Add the sliced onion, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to mix everything.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes to help the potatoes soften.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 8 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. The potatoes should be fork tender with crispy, golden edges.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot.
How to Serve Fried Potatoes and Onions
Fried Potatoes and Onions make a perfect side dish for eggs, steaks, or grilled meats. You can also enjoy them on their own, maybe topped with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkled with fresh herbs. Serve them hot straight from the skillet for the best flavor and texture.
How to Store Fried Potatoes and Onions
If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a little oil to a skillet over medium heat and warm the potatoes until theyโre heated through.
Tips to Make Fried Potatoes and Onions
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- If you like your potatoes extra crispy, let them cook undisturbed for longer periods during frying.
Variation
You can easily customize this dish by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. You could also sprinkle cheese on top toward the end of cooking for a cheesy twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like red potatoes or new potatoes. However, Russet and Yukon Gold provide the best texture for frying.
2. Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Just replace the butter with more vegetable oil, and it will be completely vegan.
3. How can I make the potatoes cook faster?
You can pre-cook the sliced potatoes in boiling water for a few minutes before frying. This helps them cook through quicker and still achieve a crispy exterior when fried.

Fried Potatoes and Onions
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the potatoes into approximately 1/4 inch rounds.
- Thinly slice the onion.
- Pat the sliced potatoes thoroughly dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet and cook without moving them for several minutes to get a nice browning.
- Once they start browning, turn them over and cook on the other side.
- Add the sliced onion, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to mix everything.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes to help the potatoes soften.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 8 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. The potatoes should be fork tender with crispy, golden edges.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot.






