Cheesy Skillet Potatoes with Caramelized Onions

Cheesy Skillet Potatoes with Caramelized Onions

Serves

2–3 people
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 25–30 minutes


Ingredients

Potatoes & Onions

  • 1½ lb (700 g) potatoes
    (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 3 tbsp oil (olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter/oil mix)

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)

Cheese & Finish

  • ¾–1 cup shredded cheese
    (cheddar, Colby-Jack, or mozzarella—cheddar matches the photo best)

  • 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)

  • Optional herbs: chopped parsley or thyme


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes

  1. Wash potatoes (peel if you want, but skin-on gives better texture).

  2. Cut into small chunks or rough cubes—not too big.

  3. Parboil in salted water for 6–8 minutes until just tender.

  4. Drain well and let steam-dry for 2 minutes.

👉 This step is key for crispy edges + fluffy insides.


2. Crisp the Potatoes

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Add potatoes in a single layer.

  3. Let them cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes.

  4. Flip and continue cooking until golden and crispy on most sides.

Don’t rush this—color = flavor.


3. Add Onions & Seasoning

  1. Add chopped onions to the skillet.

  2. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.

  3. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:

    • Onions are soft and lightly caramelized

    • Potatoes are deeply golden

If things stick, add a splash of oil or butter.


4. Add the Cheese

  1. Lower heat to medium-low.

  2. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the potatoes.

  3. Cover the pan and let cheese melt 2–3 minutes.

You want that gooey, slightly crispy-cheese situation like in the photo.


5. Final Touch

  • Add butter if using

  • Sprinkle herbs

  • Taste and adjust seasoning

Serve straight from the skillet—rustic and perfect.


How to Serve

This dish is amazing with:

  • Fried or scrambled eggs

  • Sausage or bacon

  • As a standalone comfort meal

  • Or as a side dish for grilled meats


Pro Tips (Make It Extra Good)

  • Use cast iron if possible

  • Smaller potato pieces = more crispy edges

  • For extra crunch, don’t overcrowd the pan

  • Want browner cheese? Uncover and let it fry lightly at the end


Easy Variations

  • Add bell peppers or jalapeños

  • Toss in garlic during the last 2 minutes

  • Add ham or sausage for a full meal

  • Use smoked cheese for deeper flavor

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