Crispy Home Fries Recipe

wash and parboil

Scrub potatoes well to remove dirt. Leave skins on for texture. Cut each potato into 1/2- to 3/4-inch cubes (aim for uniform size). Place cubes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add 1 tablespoon coarse salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook 6–8 minutes until potatoes are just fork-tender but not falling apart.

drain and steam-dry

Drain potatoes in a colander and let sit for 5 minutes to steam off excess moisture. Gently shake the colander or toss the potatoes once to roughen the edges—this helps with crisping.

While potatoes boil, peel and thinly slice the yellow onion. Core, seed, and dice the green bell pepper into roughly the same size as the potato cubes. Mince the garlic cloves and chop the parsley if using.

Heat a large heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons neutral oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When the fat is hot and butter is foamy, add the parboiled potato cubes in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in two batches.

Let potatoes cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop a golden crust. Using a spatula, flip and press gently to expose new surfaces. Continue to cook, stirring or flipping every 2–3 minutes, until most sides are browned and crispy, about 10–12 minutes total.

When potatoes are about halfway to desired color (after 6–8 minutes), push them to one side of the pan and add the sliced onion and diced pepper to the empty space. Sauté the vegetables until softened and lightly caramelized, about 4–5 minutes, then mix them into the potatoes.

Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and dried thyme or oregano. Stir and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Taste a potato piece and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper over the pan and toss to combine. If potatoes are sticking or need more browning, increase heat briefly and let them sear a bit longer without stirring.

Turn off the heat and stir in chopped parsley if using. Transfer crispy home fries to a serving dish and serve immediately.