Perfect Skillet Breakfast Potatoes with Caramelized Onions

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Perfect Skillet Breakfast Potatoes with Caramelized Onions

Introduction

Start your day with the ultimate comfort food – crispy on the outside, tender on the inside skillet breakfast potatoes with perfectly caramelized onions. This classic breakfast staple pairs beautifully with eggs, bacon, sausage, or French toast for a hearty morning meal that will fuel your day. The secret to these exceptional breakfast potatoes lies in the perfect balance of seasonings and the special cooking technique that ensures they develop a golden crust while maintaining a soft interior. Whether you’re cooking for a lazy weekend brunch or meal prepping for busy weekday mornings, these skillet potatoes deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

  • 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced into half-moons
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 3 tablespoons water

Instructions

Preparing the Potatoes

  1. Rinse, peel, and slice 5 russet potatoes into medium-thin slices (not too thick, not too thin).
  2. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water as you work to prevent them from browning.
  3. Cut a quarter of a medium onion into half-moon slices, making sure to separate the layers.

Cooking the Potatoes

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
  2. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Add the potatoes to the hot skillet, spreading them out evenly.
  4. Season immediately with salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and half of the chopped parsley while the potatoes are still firm.
  5. Mix carefully with a spatula to coat all potatoes with the seasonings.
  6. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the potatoes cook for about 5 minutes.
  7. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and mix gently with the potatoes.
  8. Cover again and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  9. Test a potato piece with a fork – when they’re nearly tender but not completely soft, add about 3 tablespoons of water to the skillet.
  10. Season with additional salt if needed and the remaining parsley.
  11. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the potatoes simmer for 5-10 more minutes until perfectly tender and the onions have caramelized.

Finishing

  1. Once the potatoes are tender and have developed a golden crust, turn off the heat.
  2. Sprinkle with additional fresh parsley for presentation.
  3. Serve hot alongside your favorite breakfast items like eggs, bacon, or French toast.

Nutritional Information and Timing

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 4

Per Serving (approximate values):

  • Calories: 240 kcal
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Sodium: 320mg

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  1. Preventing Oxidation: Always keep sliced potatoes in cold water until ready to cook to prevent browning.
  2. Potato Selection: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe as they develop a nice crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior.
  3. Seasoning Timing: Season the potatoes while they’re still firm so you can mix thoroughly without breaking them.
  4. The Water Trick: Adding a small amount of water towards the end of cooking creates steam that helps tenderize the potatoes perfectly.
  5. Testing Doneness: Pierce a potato with a fork – it should go through with slight resistance, not completely soft (they’ll continue cooking).
  6. Onion Caramelization: Adding onions partway through the cooking process prevents them from burning while still allowing them to caramelize beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

Potato Options

  • Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor and waxier texture
  • Try red potatoes for a prettier presentation and firmer bite
  • Leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients

Seasoning Alternatives

  • Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for extra savory depth
  • Include ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
  • Try adding 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick
  • Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dried

Add-Ins

  • Mix in diced bell peppers with the onions for color and flavor
  • Add crumbled bacon in the last few minutes of cooking
  • Sprinkle with shredded cheese once done and cover to melt
  • Top with a dollop of sour cream and chives before serving

Dietary Adaptations

  • Use all olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version
  • For a vegan option, use plant-based butter alternatives
  • Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy

Common FAQs

Why should I soak the potatoes in water?

Soaking removes excess starch and prevents the slices from oxidizing and turning brown. This helps them cook more evenly and develop a better texture.

Why are my potatoes sticking to the pan?

Make sure your oil and butter are hot enough before adding the potatoes, and don’t stir them too frequently at the beginning. Allow them to develop a crust before the first flip.

Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, but they’re best fresh. If making ahead, slightly undercook them, then reheat in a hot skillet with a touch of oil to crisp them up again.

How can I make my potatoes crispier?

For extra crispiness, use a cast iron skillet, ensure potatoes are thoroughly dried before cooking, and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Why add water at the end of cooking?

The small amount of water creates steam that helps finish cooking the inside of the potatoes without burning the outside, resulting in the perfect texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigeration

  • Store cooled leftover potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat until crisp and hot.
  • Avoid microwaving if possible as it makes them soggy.

Freezing

  • These potatoes can be frozen after cooling completely.
  • Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
  • They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat directly from frozen in a hot skillet with oil, no need to thaw.

Make-Ahead Components

  • Peel and slice potatoes up to 24 hours ahead, keeping them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator.
  • Slice onions the night before and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Pre-mix your dry seasonings and store in a small container until ready to use.

These skillet breakfast potatoes with caramelized onions will quickly become a staple in your breakfast rotation. The combination of crispy edges, tender centers, and sweet caramelized onions creates a satisfying side dish that complements any morning meal. With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create restaurant-quality breakfast potatoes that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy them alongside your favorite breakfast proteins for a complete and hearty start to your day!

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