Get ready to transform your ordinary potato side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Home Fried Potatoes with Smoked Paprika are not just a simple side – they're a crispy, golden-brown flavor explosion that elevates any meal from mundane to magnificent. With a perfect balance of crunchy exterior and tender interior, these potatoes are about to become your new go-to recipe that impresses both family and dinner guests alike.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Cut the potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Peel and finely chop the onion into small, consistent pieces to distribute evenly throughout the dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed non-stick pan over medium-high heat. The pan should be large enough to allow potatoes to spread in a single layer.
- Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the diced potatoes. Spread them in an even layer, allowing each piece to make direct contact with the pan's surface.
- Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes to develop a crispy, golden-brown crust. Use a spatula to occasionally turn and move the potatoes to prevent sticking.
- Add the chopped onions to the skillet, stirring to combine with the potatoes. Continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the potatoes and onions. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Continue cooking until potatoes are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, approximately 10-12 minutes total.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If potatoes aren't crispy enough, increase heat slightly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving plate. Let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and potatoes to cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnished with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best crispy texture.
- Dry is Key: Ensure potatoes are completely dry after washing to achieve maximum crispiness. Excess moisture prevents proper browning.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give your potato cubes plenty of space. If the pan is too crowded, they'll steam instead of getting that desirable golden crust.
- Patience is Your Friend: Resist the urge to constantly stir. Let the potatoes develop a crisp bottom before turning.
- Heat Control Matters: Medium-high heat is crucial – too low, and they'll be soggy; too high, and they'll burn.
- Seasoning Hack: Add the smoked paprika towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and maximize its rich, smoky flavor.
- Optional Upgrade: For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary in the last few minutes of cooking.Pro tip: These potatoes are perfect for breakfast, as a side dish, or even as a base for a hearty potato hash!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
