Homefries Recipe

Wash and dice potatoes

Wash 2 cups of russet potatoes thoroughly. Leave the skins on for texture or peel if preferred. Cut into 1/2-inch dice so pieces cook evenly.

Soak to remove starch

Place diced potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them crisp. Drain and pat completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Prepare vegetables

While potatoes soak, peel and thinly slice enough yellow onion to equal 1/2 cup sliced, and core and dice green bell pepper to 1/2 cup. Mince 1 tablespoon garlic and set aside.

Heat skillet

Heat a large heavy skillet (cast-iron preferred) over medium-high heat until hot, about 2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons neutral oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; allow butter to foam and oil to shimmer.

Brown potatoes

Add the dried, diced potatoes in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop a brown crust. Toss or flip pieces and continue to cook, pressing down lightly, until most sides are golden — about 10–12 minutes total.

Add aromatics and vegetables

When potatoes are mostly golden and just tender (test by piercing one), push them to the side and add the sliced onion and diced bell pepper to the empty space. Sauté 2–3 minutes until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

Season

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano, and optional 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes over the potatoes and vegetables. Toss to combine and continue to cook 1–2 minutes so flavors bloom. Taste and adjust salt/pepper.

Crisp and finish: If potatoes need more browning, increase heat to medium-high and let them sit undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to crisp further, then toss once more. Remove skillet from heat.

Add fresh herbs and acid: Stir in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley and 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice if using. This brightens the dish.

Serve: Transfer homefries to a warmed plate or serving bowl. Serve hot as a side for breakfast or alongside eggs, burgers, or grilled meats.