Home Fries
Crispy, pan-fried potatoes with sautéed onions and bell peppers. A classic American diner-style breakfast side dish that's hearty, savory, and perfect alongside eggs and bacon. Ready in under 40 minutes!
For 4 servings
4 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Par-boil Potatoes
- b.Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform 3/4-inch cubes.
- c.Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by at least one inch. Add 1 tablespoon of salt.
- d.Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes until they are just fork-tender but still hold their shape.
- e.Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes to allow excess steam and moisture to evaporate. This step is crucial for crispy results.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Onions and Peppers
- b.While the potatoes are drying, heat the vegetable oil in a large 12-inch cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- c.Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to brown at the edges.
- d.Remove the onions and peppers from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a plate.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Potatoes
- b.Add the dried, par-boiled potatoes to the hot skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
- c.Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a deep golden-brown crust on one side.
- d.Flip the potatoes and continue to cook for another 10-12 minutes, turning them only every few minutes, until they are crispy and browned on all sides.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine, Season, and Serve
- b.Return the cooked onions and peppers to the skillet with the potatoes.
- c.Sprinkle the paprika, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper over everything.
- d.Gently toss to combine and cook for one more minute to meld the flavors.
- e.Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't skip par-boiling. It guarantees a fluffy interior and helps the exterior get extra crispy.
- 2Ensure potatoes are very dry before they hit the pan. A dry surface is key for browning, not steaming.
- 3Use a large cast-iron skillet for the best crust. If you don't have one, any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
- 4Resist the urge to stir too often. Letting the potatoes sit undisturbed allows them to develop a beautiful golden crust.
- 5Season at the very end. Adding salt too early can draw out moisture and make the potatoes soggy.
- 6For even cooking, cut your potatoes, onions, and peppers into similar-sized pieces.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Home Fries
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the other spices, or sauté a chopped jalapeño with the onions and peppers.
Cheesy Home FriesCheesy Home Fries
In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the potatoes and let it melt.
Loaded Home FriesLoaded Home Fries
Serve topped with crumbled cooked bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped fresh chives.
Herbed Home FriesHerbed Home Fries
Add 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme to the skillet along with the potatoes for a more aromatic flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Energy
Potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady release of energy, making this a great dish to start your day.
Rich in Vitamin C
Both bell peppers and potatoes are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Provides Dietary Fiber
The combination of potatoes, onions, and bell peppers offers a good amount of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of these home fries (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately 300-350 calories, primarily from the potatoes and cooking oil.
