Cheesy Skillet Potatoes with Caramelized Onions
Serves
2–3 people
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
Potatoes & Onions
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1½ lb (700 g) potatoes
(Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best) -
1 medium onion, chopped
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3 tbsp oil (olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter/oil mix)
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½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Cheese & Finish
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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
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Wash potatoes (peel if you want, but skin-on gives better texture).
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Cut into small chunks or rough cubes—not too big.
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Parboil in salted water for 6–8 minutes until just tender.
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Drain well and let steam-dry for 2 minutes.
👉 This step is key for crispy edges + fluffy insides.
2. Crisp the Potatoes
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add potatoes in a single layer.
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Let them cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes.
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Flip and continue cooking until golden and crispy on most sides.
Don’t rush this—color = flavor.
3. Add Onions & Seasoning
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Add chopped onions to the skillet.
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Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
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Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:
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Onions are soft and lightly caramelized
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Potatoes are deeply golden
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If things stick, add a splash of oil or butter.
4. Add the Cheese
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Lower heat to medium-low.
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Sprinkle cheese evenly over the potatoes.
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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
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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:
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Fried or scrambled eggs
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Sausage or bacon
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As a standalone comfort meal
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Or as a side dish for grilled meats
Pro Tips (Make It Extra Good)
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Use cast iron if possible
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Smaller potato pieces = more crispy edges
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For extra crunch, don’t overcrowd the pan
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Want browner cheese? Uncover and let it fry lightly at the end
Easy Variations
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Add bell peppers or jalapeños
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Toss in garlic during the last 2 minutes
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Add ham or sausage for a full meal
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Use smoked cheese for deeper flavor

