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Simple Fried Potatoes

Diced potatoes pan-fried until crispy and golden. The most basic and satisfying side dish there is. Good with any meal, any time of day.

VeganVegetarianDairy-FreeEgg-FreeNut-FreeGluten-Friendly SideBreakfast
Prep: 5 min Cook: 15 min Total: 20 min Servings: 3–4 Difficulty: Easy

Allergens: None of the major allergens as written.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes (or 2 cans potatoes, drained and diced)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, diced

Optional Extras

  • Salt and pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Bell pepper, diced
  • Ketchup on the side

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Spatula

Instructions

  1. If using fresh potatoes, dice them into small cubes — the smaller the dice, the faster they cook. If using canned, drain and cut into chunks.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the potatoes in a single layer as much as possible. Let them sit without stirring for 3–4 minutes to get a crispy bottom.
  4. Stir, then add the onion. Cook for another 8–10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika if you have them.

Notes

  • Canned potatoes shortcut: Already cooked, so they fry up in about 8 minutes total. Great time saver.
  • Breakfast hash: Add a diced bell pepper and serve with a fried egg on top.
  • Add meat: Stir in diced hot dogs, SPAM, or leftover ground beef during the last few minutes.
  • Sweet potatoes too. Same method — they just cook a few minutes faster and get crispy-sweet edges.
  • Don't crowd the pan. The potatoes need contact with the hot pan to get crispy. Cook in batches if needed.