Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes

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Golden, crispy-edged potatoes with a buttery garlic finish? Say less. These Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes are the kind of side dish that ends up stealing the spotlight from the main course. With tender centers and an ultra-crispy crust, every bite bursts with savory garlic and herby parmesan flavor.

This skillet recipe is perfect for when you want something satisfying but simple. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or a weeknight meal, these potatoes deliver on both flavor and texture. No need to deep fry or use a dozen ingredients—just a few pantry staples, one pan, and you’re on your way to potato perfection.

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What Kind of Potatoes Are Best for Crispy Skillet Potatoes?

For the crispiest result with tender interiors, Yukon Gold potatoes are your best bet. Their natural creaminess pairs beautifully with a skillet sear, and they hold their shape without getting mushy. Russets can work too if you like a fluffier inside, but they’re more prone to breaking apart. Try to slice them evenly for uniform cooking.

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Ingredients for the Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes

Yukon Gold Potatoes
The star of the show. They crisp up beautifully while staying creamy in the center.

Olive Oil & Butter
A mix of fat creates golden crisp edges and adds a buttery depth to the flavor.

Garlic (freshly minced)
No garlic powders here—fresh garlic infuses the potatoes with punchy, roasted flavor.

Parmesan Cheese
For that salty, umami-packed topping that forms a savory crust.

Fresh Parsley or Thyme
Adds a pop of color and herbaceous brightness.

Salt & Pepper
To balance and enhance all the other flavors. Don’t skimp!

Optional: Red Pepper Flakes
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some in for a spicy kick.

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How To Make the Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes

Step 1: Slice and Soak the Potatoes

Wash and thinly slice your Yukon Gold potatoes, about 1/4-inch thick. Soak the slices in cold water for at least 20 minutes to remove excess starch—this helps achieve maximum crispiness. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large nonstick or cast iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat until melted and shimmering.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

Arrange the potato slices in an overlapping circular pattern (or just in a single layer, depending on pan size). Let them cook undisturbed for about 6-8 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crisp.

Step 4: Flip and Season

Carefully flip the slices (use a spatula and patience here!) and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Add the minced garlic and another dab of butter around the edges.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Herbs

Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes and let it melt into a crispy layer. Toss in chopped parsley or thyme for an herbaceous lift.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once both sides are crispy and golden, remove from heat and serve hot, straight from the skillet or plated with your favorite main dish.

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Serving and Storing Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes

These skillet potatoes are best served immediately while they’re hot and crisp. They make the perfect sidekick to roast chicken, grilled steak, or even scrambled eggs for brunch. Want to turn them into a full meal? Add a dollop of sour cream and a fried egg on top.

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in a skillet with a touch of oil or reheat in the oven at 375°F to regain some of that original crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of potato?

Yes! Russet potatoes or even red potatoes can work, though Yukon Gold gives the best combo of crispy outside and creamy center.

Do I have to soak the potatoes?

Soaking is optional, but it really helps with crispiness. It removes extra starch so they don’t steam in the pan.

Can I make this vegan?

Definitely. Just skip the butter and parmesan and use plant-based alternatives. The flavor is still fantastic with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

What pan works best?

A cast iron skillet gives the best crispy texture, but any nonstick skillet will do the job well.

Can I make these ahead of time?

They’re best fresh, but you can prep the sliced potatoes and store them in water in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.

How do I keep the garlic from burning?

Add garlic after the first flip, not at the beginning. That way it has less direct contact with heat and turns golden instead of bitter.

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Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If these crispy skillet potatoes are your kind of thing, here are more delicious options to try next:

• Roasted Potatoes and Carrots for an easy oven-baked vegetable medley.
• Sweet Honey Glazed Carrots if you’re craving sweet and savory harmony.
• Easy Weeknight Tater Tot Casserole for a crispy, cheesy, comforting bake.
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon if you want to pair this potato dish with a rich, savory protein.
• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes for an ultra-cozy meal full of garlic love.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can revisit it any time: Life with Jam on Pinterest.

If you try these skillet potatoes, drop a comment! Did you go spicy or keep it classic? Add cheese on both sides? I’d love to hear how they turned out and any personal twists you added.

Let’s inspire each other to cook smarter and tastier—questions welcome!

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