Cheesy Skillet Potatoes with Onions and Herbs

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Cheesy Skillet Potatoes with Onions and Herbs

Introduction

Crispy, tender, and golden brown, these skillet potatoes are tossed with melted cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, herbs, and a touch of spice. They’re rustic, rich, and deeply satisfying — the kind of dish you’ll want to serve at any gathering or keep all to yourself!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 medium russet potatoes, unpeeled and scrubbed
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley (optional)
  • Extra shredded cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

  1. Wash and dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks (no need to peel for a rustic touch).
  2. Place them in a bowl of cold salted water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch (this helps them get crispier).
  3. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onions and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until golden and caramelized.
  3. Add garlic and sauté for another 1 minute. Remove onions and garlic from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

  1. Add remaining olive oil and butter to the same skillet.
  2. Add the dry potato pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 6–7 minutes so they crisp up.
  3. Flip and cook for another 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fork-tender.

Step 4: Add Flavors

  1. Return the onions and garlic to the skillet.
  2. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  3. Stir everything well and reduce heat to low.

Step 5: Get Cheesy

  1. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the hot potatoes.
  2. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Garnish with herbs and extra cheese if desired.

Method Summary:

  1. Soak and dry potatoes.
  2. Caramelize onions and garlic.
  3. Sear and cook potatoes in butter and oil.
  4. Mix with onions, season, and melt cheese on top.

History

Rustic skillet potatoes trace their origins to early American farm kitchens and have variants all over the world — from German bratkartoffeln to French pommes de terre sautées. They were originally created as a hearty, inexpensive way to use leftover potatoes. Over time, cheese and spice additions turned this into a decadent dish enjoyed across the globe.

Benefits

  • Budget-friendly and uses pantry staples
  • Customizable with bacon, peppers, sausage, or eggs
  • Vegetarian-friendly as is
  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Potatoes are high in potassium and vitamin C

Lovers of This Dish Say:

“Tastes like the perfect cross between hash browns and cheesy scalloped potatoes!”

“The crispy edges and gooey cheese are dangerously good.”

“I added bacon and green onions — game changer!”

🍽️ Nutrition (Per Serving – approx. 1 cup):

  • Calories: ~280
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbs: 32g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Calcium: 15% DV

Conclusion

Cheesy Skillet Potatoes are the perfect marriage of crispy texture, creamy richness, and bold flavor. Whether served for breakfast with eggs, at brunch with sour cream and hot sauce, or as a side to grilled meats, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy every craving!

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