Southern Fried Potatoes

Name: Southern Fried Potatoes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes, halved; 2 tsp minced garlic; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 tbsp butter; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp paprika; chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Southern fried potatoes make the most versatile side dish ever. These crispy potatoes are fried to buttery, golden perfection in 10 minutes!

Close up of fried potatoes on a plate with a fork, and a sprig of fresh parsley.

What I love about southern fried potatoes

Honestly, these are a perfect side for almost any meal. They go with steak, chicken or even fish.
These work great for breakfast potatoes, try serving them with spam and eggs.
Making a potato salad? These potatoes are perfect for salad recipes, adding a whole lot more flavor that boiled potatoes.

Fried potatoes in a large skillet with a spoon with a plate of potatoes next to it.

Here’s what you’ll need to make them

Close up of potatoes in a large skillet with a spoon.

How to make southern fried potatoes

Prep the potatoes. Clean and cut potatoes. Dry the potatoes before tossing them with oil, salt, pepper and paprika.

Helpful tip: If you have the time I highly suggest soaking them in a bowl of water for about 30 minutes. This helps break down some of the starches, allowing them to crisp and brown more easily.

Season and simmer potatoes. In large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds. Stir in potatoes. Cook until crispy, or about 10 minutes.

Helpful tip: Make sure not to crowd the pan, working in batches if needed.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, salt and pepper to taste.

Southern fried potatoes on a plate garnished with fresh parsley.

FAQs and tips on making fried potatoes

Why won’t my fried potatoes get crispy?

If you are having trouble getting your potatoes to crisp up, it is likely because the starch content is high. Soaking them in water prior to cooking usually helps with this. Different potatoes have different starch levels so check which kind of potatoes you have and adjust accordingly.

Should I boil potatoes before frying them?

You do not have to boil potatoes before frying them. Make sure to fry potatoes at a medium temperature though, any higher and you will have a raw center or a burnt outside.

How long do you soak potatoes in water before frying?

I find that it really only takes about 30 minutes of soaking to do the job. Make sure to drain and pat dry.

Fried potatoes in a large skillet with a spoon.

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