Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a delicious side dish that is both hearty and savory, look no further than golden potatoes skillet. This simple yet satisfying dish is a perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its crispy golden exterior and tender, creamy interior, these potatoes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
To make golden potatoes skillet, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients. Start by selecting the best potatoes – choose ones that are firm and have a golden skin. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe. Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks, ensuring they are all roughly the same size so that they cook evenly.
Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a generous amount of oil or butter. Once the oil is hot, add the diced potatoes to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer. Let the potatoes cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Once the potatoes are browned, season them with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you desire. For a classic flavor, go with a combination of garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix the seasonings into the potatoes, making sure they coat each piece evenly.
Continue cooking the potatoes for another 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and have a crispy exterior. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the potatoes cool slightly before serving. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for an extra burst of flavor.
This golden potatoes skillet recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Add some diced onions or bell peppers for a touch of sweetness, or sprinkle some grated cheese on top for a melty, gooey finish. However you choose to prepare them, these golden potatoes are sure to become a family favorite!
Choosing the Right Potatoes
When it comes to cooking golden potatoes in a skillet, choosing the right type of potatoes is crucial. Different varieties of potatoes have different textures and flavors, so selecting the right one can make a big difference in the final dish.
There are several types of potatoes available in the market, but the best ones for skillet cooking are typically waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These varieties have a creamy texture and hold their shape well when cooked. Their thin skin also adds a nice contrast to the crispy golden exterior of the skillet potatoes.
Yukon Gold potatoes: These potatoes are known for their smooth and velvety texture. They have a golden-yellow flesh and a slightly sweet flavor, making them perfect for skillet cooking. Yukon Gold potatoes can be boiled, mashed, or roasted, and they hold up well in a skillet.
Red potatoes: Red potatoes are another great option for skillet cooking. These potatoes have a moist and waxy texture, making them ideal for roasting or frying. They have a naturally buttery flavor and a thin, red skin that adds color to the dish.
Tip: When buying potatoes, choose ones that are firm and free from any soft spots or sprouts. Store them in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh for longer.
Whether you choose Yukon Gold or red potatoes, make sure to wash them thoroughly before cooking. You can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients, or peel them if desired. Now that you know which potatoes to choose, let’s move on to the next step in making delicious golden potatoes in a skillet!
Preparing the Potatoes
To start making golden potatoes skillet, you need to prepare the potatoes first. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler or a knife. Make sure to remove all the skin from the potatoes.
3. Once peeled, rinse the potatoes again to remove any remaining dirt or peel residue.
4. Cut the potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. You can either dice them into small cubes or slice them into thin rounds, depending on your preference.
5. Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from turning brown.
6. Let the potatoes soak in the water for about 15-20 minutes to remove excess starch.
7. After soaking, drain the potatoes well and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Now that your potatoes are prepared, you can proceed to the next step of cooking the golden potatoes skillet.
Cooking the Potatoes
Once you have cut the potatoes into cubed pieces, it’s time to cook them to perfection. Follow these simple steps to achieve golden and crispy potatoes that will be a hit at any meal:
1. Boiling the Potatoes
Place the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted boiling water. Boil them for about 8-10 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as you want them to retain their shape and not become too mushy.
2. Draining and Drying
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them sit for a few minutes to remove any excess water. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is important as it helps the potatoes to crisp up nicely when fried.
3. Heating the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a generous amount of cooking oil. You can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or any other oil suitable for frying. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the potatoes.
4. Frying the Potatoes
Add the drained and dried potatoes to the hot skillet, spreading them out in a single layer. Allow them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes until they start to develop a golden crust on the bottom.
Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, carefully flip the potatoes to cook the other side. Continue cooking for another few minutes until all sides are golden and crispy. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
Once the potatoes are cooked to your desired level of crispiness, remove them from the skillet and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
Your golden potatoes skillet is now ready to be served! Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Enjoy as a side dish or as a delicious base for a hearty breakfast hash.
Adding Seasonings and Flavors
Adding the right seasonings and flavors is key to creating delicious golden skillet potatoes. Here are some ideas to enhance the taste of your dish:
1. Salt and Pepper
Start by seasoning the potatoes with salt and pepper. This simple combination brings out the natural flavors of the potatoes and enhances their taste.
2. Garlic and Herbs
Add minced garlic and your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to give your potatoes a savory and aromatic taste. Herbs can be either fresh or dried, depending on your preference.
3. Paprika
Sprinkle a dash of paprika over the potatoes to add a smoky and slightly spicy flavor. Paprika also adds a hint of color to make your dish more visually appealing.
4. Lemon Zest
To add a refreshing and zesty flavor, grate some lemon zest over the cooked potatoes. The citrusy notes will brighten up the dish and complement the other seasonings.
5. Parmesan Cheese
For a cheesy and indulgent flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking. The cheese will melt and form a golden crust, adding a rich and savory taste.
Remember to taste the potatoes as you season them and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Once you’ve added your desired flavors, continue cooking the potatoes until they are golden and crispy.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and flavors to create your own unique variation of golden skillet potatoes. Serve them as a side dish or enjoy them as a tasty snack!
Serving and Enjoying
Once the golden potatoes skillet is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish! Here are a few tips for serving and making the most of your meal:
1. Plating
Use a large serving platter or individual plates to serve the golden potatoes skillet. Arrange the crispy potatoes and onions in an attractive manner, ensuring that each serving gets a good mix of flavors and textures.
2. Garnish
Add a final touch to your dish by garnishing it with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives. These herbs will add a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the golden potatoes skillet.
Alternatively, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese on top of the dish for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Pairing
Golden potatoes skillet is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other foods. It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, such as steak or chicken, and can also be served alongside eggs for a hearty breakfast.
For a complete meal, serve the skillet with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. The crispiness of the potatoes and the savory flavors will perfectly complement the lighter and refreshing components of a salad or vegetable dish.
4. Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The skillet can be reheated in a pan or microwave for a quick meal the next day. Enjoy the golden potatoes skillet both hot and fresh or as a tasty leftover!
Now that you know how to cook golden potatoes skillet and how to serve and enjoy it, don’t hesitate to invite friends and family over for a delicious meal. Bon appétit!
Cleanup
After enjoying your delicious golden potatoes skillet, it’s time to clean up and leave your kitchen sparkling clean. Here are some simple steps to make the cleanup process a breeze:
Gather Your Supplies
Before starting to clean, gather all the necessary supplies. You will need a sponge or dishcloth, dish soap, hot water, and a drying towel.
Scrape off Excess Food
Using a spatula or a scraper, remove any remaining food particles from the skillet. This will make the cleaning process easier and prevent clogging the sink or dishwasher.
Wash with Hot Soapy Water
Fill the sink with hot water and add a few drops of dish soap. Submerge the skillet in the soapy water and use a sponge or dishcloth to scrub off any grease or residue. Pay extra attention to the bottom and sides of the skillet.
Note: If your skillet has stubborn stains or burnt-on food, you can create a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stains and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Rinse and Dry
Once the skillet is clean, rinse it thoroughly under running water to remove any soap residue. Dry the skillet using a clean drying towel or let it air dry.
Tip: To prolong the lifespan of your skillet, avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh scouring pads that can damage the nonstick surface.
Now that your skillet is clean and ready to go, you can sit back and enjoy the tasty results of your cooking!
FAQ
What are the ingredients needed for cooking golden potatoes skillet?
The ingredients needed for cooking golden potatoes skillet are 4 cups of diced potatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt and pepper to taste, and optional toppings like shredded cheese and chopped parsley.
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a different type of potato for this recipe. Yukon gold potatoes work well for this skillet dish, but you can also use red potatoes or russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
