Pan-Fried Rustic Potatoes

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Pan-Fried Rustic Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food — crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual weekend brunch.

Ingredients for Pan-Fried Rustic Potatoes

Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they crisp up beautifully when fried. Their starchy nature creates that perfect texture contrast. Vegetable oil is used for frying due to its high smoke point, ensuring your potatoes get crispy without burning. A touch of salt enhances all the flavors, while black pepper adds a hint of heat. Smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish. Finally, fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, rounding out the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • Make sure your potato slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
  • Use a metal spatula for flipping to avoid breaking the slices.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

These pan-fried rustic potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside a juicy steak or a tender roast chicken. They also make a fabulous addition to a breakfast spread with eggs and bacon. For a vegetarian option, pair them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too, but they may not get as crispy as Russets.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat leftovers in the oven to retain some crispiness.
Is there a healthier way to cook this?
You can reduce the oil and bake the potatoes on a sheet pan, but they won’t be as crispy.

Pan-Fried Rustic Potatoes Recipe Walkthrough

Start by giving your Russet potatoes a good wash and peel. Then, slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This thickness strikes the perfect balance between crispy edges and a tender center. Once sliced, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness.

Next, heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking. Add the potato slices in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than frying. Season the potatoes with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika right away to infuse them with flavor as they cook.

Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for about 10 minutes. This allows them to develop a beautiful golden crust. Resist the urge to stir! Once the bottom side is golden and crispy, gently flip the potatoes using a spatula. Cook for another 10 minutes to achieve an even crispiness on both sides.

Once they're perfectly golden, transfer them to a serving platter and sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make — perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
  • Deliciously crispy texture that everyone will enjoy.
  • Versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

2 lbs Russet potatoes
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into 1/4-inch thick slices.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the potato slices in a single layer and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Cook for 10 minutes without stirring, allowing the potatoes to form a golden crust.
5. Turn the potatoes over gently and cook for another 10 minutes until both sides are crispy and golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!