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Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions

There’s nothing better than a skillet of golden, buttery fried potatoes and onions sizzling on the stovetop. This easy side dish is the definition of comfort food – crispy edges, soft centers, and savory onions cooked to perfection.

My family has always loved this recipe because it’s simple, filling, and pairs with almost any dinner. Best of all, it’s made with pantry staples you probably already have on hand.

Whether you’re serving them as a side for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these skillet potatoes and onions are always a hit. They remind me of something straight out of a country kitchen – hearty, flavorful, and made with love.

If you enjoy easy, budget-friendly meals like this one, be sure to check out my Lazy Dinner Ideas board on Pinterest and my collection of Family Dinner Recipes for even more inspiration!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter (or a mix of butter and olive oil)
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt (or to taste)
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Skillet Fried Potatoes and Onions

1. Prepare the potatoes – Wash, peel (if you like), and slice your potatoes thinly. The thinner the slices, the crispier they’ll get in the skillet.
2. Heat the skillet – Add butter (or butter and olive oil) to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the onions – Toss in the sliced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Add the potatoes – Place sliced potatoes into the skillet and spread them out evenly. Season with garlic salt and black pepper.
5. Pan-fry – Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for a few minutes so they can crisp up. Flip and stir occasionally until golden brown and tender, about 15–20 minutes.
6. Serve hot – Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Fried Potatoes and Onions

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet – If you add too many potatoes at once, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Use a cast iron skillet – It holds heat well and gives the potatoes that extra crispy edge.
• Mix up your seasonings – Try paprika, rosemary, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a flavor twist.

What to Serve with Fried Potatoes and Onions

These skillet potatoes are versatile and go with just about anything! They’re especially good with:

• Easy Chili – cozy and hearty, perfect for fall nights
• Creamy Chicken Pasta – a delicious comfort food dinner
• Kielbasa and Potatoes – another quick skillet meal with tons of flavor

Or serve them at breakfast alongside eggs and bacon for a diner-style treat.

For more cozy side dishes, check out my One pot family meals hub and Easy Potato Recipes collection. These skillet potatoes and onions will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

If you want to make this dish your own, you can easily add other flavors and toppings. Try sprinkling in paprika for a smoky touch, fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for freshness, or even a little shredded cheese melted on top for extra indulgence.

For heartier meals, you can toss in slices of sausage, bacon, or even leftover roast beef for a complete one-pan dinner. This dish is versatile, budget-friendly, and always satisfying.

Another great thing about fried potatoes and onions is how well they pair with other family favorites. They’re the perfect side for BBQ chicken, meatloaf, pork chops, or even a simple garden salad if you want to balance out the richness.

If you love old-fashioned skillet recipes, this one is going to earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.