If you’ve ever wondered how to transform simple potatoes into a crave-worthy breakfast or brunch staple, you’re in for a treat. This article will show you exactly How to Make Crispy Home Fries with Onion and Thyme Recipe that boast a perfect balance of golden crispiness, soft tender interiors, and a fragrant hint of fresh herbs. It’s that satisfying dish that effortlessly pairs with almost anything while adding a cozy, homemade touch to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a few straightforward ingredients is all it takes to make this dish shine. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the creamy texture of Yukon Gold potatoes, the mellow sweetness of sautéed onion, or the fresh burst of thyme that elevates every bite.
- Yukon Gold potatoes (1½ pounds): Their creamy, buttery texture crisps up beautifully while staying tender inside.
- Kosher salt (1 tablespoon plus more to taste): Enhances all the flavors and seasons the potatoes perfectly.
- Distilled white vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle brightness and helps the potatoes hold their shape during boiling.
- Vegetable oil (3 tablespoons, divided): Provides the ideal frying medium for that irresistible crisp exterior.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, divided): Infuses rich, nutty flavor and helps achieve the golden sear.
- Sweet yellow onion (1, diced): Brings a natural sweetness and soft texture that complements the crispy potatoes.
- Fresh thyme (1-2 teaspoons, minced): Offers an aromatic herbal note that’s lightly woodsy and perfectly subtle.
- Fresh cilantro (1 tablespoon, minced, optional): Or parsley or chives for a fresh, bright finishing touch.
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a slight kick and rounds out the savory flavor profile.
How to Make How to Make Crispy Home Fries with Onion and Thyme Recipe
Step 1: Parboil the Potatoes
Start by placing your potatoes in a medium pot covered with cold water. Add the kosher salt and vinegar—this little trick helps firm up the potatoes, preventing them from falling apart later on. Bring the pot to a rolling boil, then cook the potatoes until they’re just tender when poked with a fork, about 5 minutes after boiling. Once done, drain them and let them cool completely. This step is key—it sets the stage for that coveted crispy crust without sacrificing the fluffy inside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
As the potatoes cool, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil starts to shimmer, add the diced onions and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let them cook until they are translucent and tender, releasing their natural sweetness—this usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes. Once softened, remove the onions from the skillet onto a paper towel to drain extra moisture, and take the skillet off the heat. These caramelized onions will add just the right sweetness and depth to your home fries.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes for Frying
Cut your rested potatoes into quarters or bite-sized chunks, depending on your preference. Toss them in a bowl with one tablespoon of vegetable oil to make sure each piece is coated evenly. This ensures that every bite crisps up beautifully when frying. A well-oiled potato creates that golden, crunchy texture we all crave.
Step 4: Fry the Potatoes to Crispy Perfection
Place your skillet back over medium heat and add the remaining tablespoon of oil and butter. Once the oil shimmers and the butter is melted, carefully add the quartered potatoes in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece room to crisp up. Season the potatoes with kosher salt and pepper, and let them cook undisturbed for about 6 minutes or until the bottoms turn a deep golden brown. Flip or stir occasionally to get even browning all around. This step brings the crunch and rich flavor that makes these home fries irresistible.
Step 5: Combine Onions, Thyme, and Finish
Once your potatoes are beautifully golden, add the cooked onions and minced fresh thyme back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to distribute the flavors and allow the thyme’s fragrant aroma to infuse the dish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro, parsley, or chives on top for a pop of fresh color and flavor. Serve the home fries immediately, savoring their perfect balance of crisp edges and tender hearts.
How to Serve How to Make Crispy Home Fries with Onion and Thyme Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish beyond ordinary. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives adds a bright contrast to the savory potatoes. For a little extra flair, a drizzle of hot sauce or a dusting of smoked paprika can bring a punch of flavor and color. Don’t forget a final crack of black pepper for a hint of spice that lingers.
Side Dishes
These crispy home fries are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with classic breakfast staples like fried eggs, bacon, or sausage. They also complement heartier mains such as grilled chicken or steak for brunch or dinner. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal with some lightness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Fancy a fun twist? Serve these home fries stacked in a pretty bowl garnished with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. For brunch gatherings, lay them out on a large platter with an array of dipping sauces like aioli, spicy ketchup, or mustard-based dips. Their crispy texture makes them perfect for scooping up flavorful dips, turning them into a sharable side everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cooled home fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days while still maintaining good flavor and texture when properly reheated.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked home fries, be advised that the texture can change slightly upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, first spread them out on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a sealed plastic bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for best results.
Reheating
To enjoy those crispy edges again, reheat frozen or refrigerated home fries in a hot skillet with a splash of oil over medium heat. Resist microwaving if you want to preserve the crunch. Stir occasionally until heated through and re-crisped.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Absolutely! Yukon Golds are ideal for their creamy texture and natural buttery flavor, but russets work well too. They crisp up nicely, though the texture inside might be a bit fluffier.
Why do we add vinegar to the boiling water?
The vinegar helps the potatoes set their shape and prevents them from becoming mushy during cooking. It also subtly enhances the flavor, giving you perfectly tender but firm potatoes ready for frying.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, you can replace the butter with additional vegetable oil or a vegan butter substitute. The rich buttery flavor will change slightly, but the crispiness and herbaceous notes will still shine through.
Is fresh thyme necessary, or can I use dried thyme?
Fresh thyme offers the best aroma and flavor, but if you only have dried, use about one-third the amount and add it earlier in the cooking process so it has time to release its flavors.
How long does it take to make this dish from start to finish?
Including prep and cooking, you’re looking at about 45 minutes. The parboil and resting of the potatoes are essential steps that set up the perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know exactly How to Make Crispy Home Fries with Onion and Thyme Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring this comforting dish to your table. Whether for a lazy weekend breakfast or a tasty side for dinner, these crispy, flavorful home fries promise to be a new favorite that you’ll return to time and time again. Enjoy every golden, herb-infused bite!
Print
How to Make Crispy Home Fries with Onion and Thyme Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and flavorful home fries made from tender Yukon Gold potatoes sautéed with sweet onions and fresh herbs. This classic breakfast side is easy to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (russet potatoes also work)
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided total)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 sweet yellow onion, diced
- 1–2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro (or parsley or chives)
Fats & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Parboil Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a medium pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt and 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar. Stir well. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until the potatoes are just tender, about 5 minutes after boiling begins. Drain and allow to cool.
- Sauté Onions: While potatoes cool, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the oil shimmers. Add diced onions, season with salt and pepper, and cook until translucent and tender, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer onions to a paper towel-lined plate and remove the skillet from heat.
- Prepare Potatoes: Cut the cooled potatoes into quarters. Place the potato pieces in a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to coat evenly.
- Cook Potatoes: Return the skillet to medium heat and add remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Heat until oil shimmers, then add quartered potatoes in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper and cook without stirring until crispy and lightly browned on the bottom, about 6 minutes.
- Combine and Finish: Add the cooked onions and minced thyme to the skillet with potatoes. Toss gently to combine and season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir in minced cilantro, parsley, or chives if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture, but russet potatoes are a good alternative.
- Parboiling the potatoes helps them cook evenly and achieve a tender interior.
- Adjust the amount of herbs according to your preference for freshness and flavor.
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying the potatoes.
- This recipe pairs well with eggs, bacon, or as a side for brunch meals.
