Southern Fried Potatoes are a comforting, rustic side dish that brings back memories of weekend breakfasts and family gatherings. Golden, crispy, and loaded with flavor, these potatoes are pan-fried to perfection with onions and simple seasonings. Whether I serve them with eggs and bacon or enjoy them on their own, they always hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how simple yet flavorful this recipe is. It takes humble ingredients—potatoes, onions, and a few seasonings—and turns them into something hearty and delicious. The edges are perfectly crispy, the inside stays soft, and every bite is full of savory goodness. I also enjoy how versatile the recipe is—I can spice it up or keep it classic depending on the mood.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 small onion, diced
3 tbsp vegetable oil or bacon grease
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped bell pepper or jalapeño for extra flavor
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Directions
Prep the potatoes: I rinse the diced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them completely dry with a clean towel to ensure they get crispy in the skillet.
Cook the potatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, I heat the oil or bacon grease, then add the potatoes in an even layer. I let them cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes until the underside is golden and crispy.
Add the onions and seasoning: I stir the potatoes, then add the diced onions (and bell pepper or jalapeño if I want extra flavor). I sprinkle in the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Finish cooking: I continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender on the inside and perfectly golden on the outside—usually about 15–20 minutes total.
Serve: I like to garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook from start to finish. It’s perfect for a hearty breakfast side or even a quick dinner addition.
Variations
I sometimes parboil the potatoes for 3–4 minutes before frying them to get an even crispier texture.
When I want a smoky bite, I add cooked bacon bits right into the skillet.
If I’m in the mood for spice, I swap out the regular salt for seasoned salt or Cajun seasoning.
Diced sweet potatoes work well as a twist for something a bit sweeter and earthier.
I occasionally throw in mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies in the pan.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, I let the potatoes cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For reheating, I use a skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispiness. Microwaving works too, but it softens the texture a bit. If I want to re-crisp them, the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes also does the trick.
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FAQs
How do I keep the potatoes from getting soggy?
I always make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly after rinsing. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so patting them dry makes a big difference.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, I often switch between Russet and Yukon Gold depending on what I have. Russets get extra crispy, while Yukon Golds hold their shape better and have a buttery texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I can prep the potatoes and dice the onions ahead of time. However, I always recommend frying them fresh for the best texture. Reheated fried potatoes lose some crispiness.
Are Southern Fried Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. I just double-check my seasonings to make sure they don’t contain any hidden gluten.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Technically, yes—I can toss the seasoned potatoes and onions in oil and roast them at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll still be tasty, but won’t have that same skillet-crisp edge.
Conclusion
Southern Fried Potatoes are one of those timeless dishes I can count on to be satisfying and simple. With just a few pantry ingredients and a skillet, I create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with breakfast or dinner. Whether I keep it classic or customize it with extras, it’s always a hit on the table.
📖 Recipe:
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Southern Fried Potatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Southern Fried Potatoes are a rustic, comforting side dish made by pan-frying diced potatoes and onions until crispy and golden. Perfect for breakfast or as a hearty dinner addition, this dish is simple, flavorful, and customizable.
Ingredients
4 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 small onion, diced
3 tbsp vegetable oil or bacon grease
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped bell pepper or jalapeño
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the diced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Heat oil or bacon grease in a large skillet over medium heat. Add potatoes in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy on the bottom.
- Stir the potatoes and add the diced onions and optional bell pepper or jalapeño.
- Sprinkle in smoked paprika (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender inside and crispy outside—about 15–20 minutes total.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispiness, parboil the potatoes for 3–4 minutes before frying.
Add cooked bacon bits for smoky flavor.
Swap in Cajun seasoning for a spicier version.
Try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet, earthy twist.
Include mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
To store, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet, microwave, or oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to re-crisp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
