Southern Soul Food Fried Potatoes

Golden-brown perfection awaits with this irresistible pairing of crispy fried potatoes and caramelized onions. This dish embodies the ultimate comfort of Southern soul food that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor. This pan-fried skillet dish is often served for breakfast alongside crunchy bacon and buttery biscuits.

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Growing up we often had country potatoes and sauteed onions for weekend breakfast or as a side dish for weeknight dinners. It’s such a simple dish to whip up and it’s cheap! All you really need are potatoes, onions, oil, and spices.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Taste and Flavor: The combination of fried potatoes and onions offers a delightful taste. The crispy texture of the potatoes complements the soft, caramelized onions, creating the best blend of flavors.
• Easy Prep: This dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. Potatoes and onions are commonly found in most kitchens, making them a convenient option for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Versatility: This can serve as a standalone dish, a side to accompany other main courses, or even be part of breakfast.
• Comfort Food: For many, this dish represents comfort food. Its simplicity and familiar taste can evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, reminding people of home-cooked meals or cherished memories.
• Customization: This dish can be customized to suit individual preferences. From adding different herbs and spices to incorporating additional ingredients like bell peppers or bacon, there’s room for creativity to tailor the dish to personal tastes.

What Type of Potatoes to Use

Russet, Yukon gold, or red potatoes will work best. Russet potatoes are best for crisping, Yukon gold is medium-starch and results in super creamy potatoes.

Do You Have to Peel the Potatoes

Peeling the potatoes is a matter of preference. You decide. Russet potato skins have lots of nutrients and contain B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, calcium, potassium, and other nutrients. Potato skin also provides lots of fiber, about 2 grams per ounce. You will get more fiber from the potato by eating the skin.

What Type of Pan to Use

I love to use a 12-inch cast iron skillet. It’s also what I was taught to use growing up and making this recipe. Cast iron will cook the potatoes at an even and consistent temperature. You can use any pan that retains heat well and is good for crisping.

How to Make Southern Soul Food Fried Potatoes

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Heat a skillet on medium-high heat and add olive oil, sliced potatoes, onions, green peppers, and spices to the pan.
2. Saute.
3. Place the lid on the skillet and simmer the potatoes.
4. Remove the lid from the skillet and flip the potatoes.

Additional Options for Spices and Seasoning

• Homemade Ranch Seasoning
• New Orleans Cajun Rub
• Homemade BBQ Seasoning

Texture/Are They Crispy

The potatoes will have a slightly crisp outside with a soft interior. These are not meant to be crispy, crunchy potatoes.

Do Not Overcrowd the Pan

Be sure not to overcrowd the pan and cook the potatoes in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will increase your cook time and some potatoes will cook faster than others. If you end up with some potatoes that are hard and aren’t cooked through, it’s likely because you had too many potatoes in the pan. Use a larger pan or cook in batches.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers will last tightly covered and sealed in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Freezer Tips

You can freeze the cooked potatoes tightly covered and sealed for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge.

How to Reheat

Reheat the dish on the stove in a pan with a little oil or in the air fryer or oven at 350 degrees until warm. You can use the microwave if you wish.

Pair with these Recipes

Sweet Potato Oatmeal
Healthy Breakfast Casserole
Breakfast Crunchwrap
Healthy Breakfast Salad
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Broccoli Au Gratin
Slow Cooker Crockpot Glazed Carrots
Roasted Okra
Fried Corn Recipe

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