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