Crisp Sautéed Red Potatoes

This crisp sautéed red potatoes recipe creates the perfect balance of crispy golden edges and tender, fluffy centers. Made with simple ingredients like butter, olive oil, and fresh herbs, these potatoes are easy to prepare and cook in a skillet for a quick, delicious side dish. Ideal for pairing with chicken, steak, or vegetables, this recipe is great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, these crispy potatoes will quickly become a favorite addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs small red potatoes, cut in half or quartered to about ¾-inch thick pieces
• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• Salt, preferably kosher or sea salt, to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
• 2 Tbsp chives or green onion, chopped (plus more for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, arrange the potato pieces in the skillet, cut-side-down, in one even layer.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes uncovered and undisturbed for 8-10 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms on the bottoms.
3. Flip the Potatoes: Once the first side is crispy and golden, flip the potatoes over, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5 minutes or until the second side is golden brown. You may hear some splattering as the potatoes cook under the lid, so be cautious when lifting the lid.
4. Finish Cooking: Turn the potatoes again, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can easily be pierced with a knife.
5. Season and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and season the potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper (about ¾ tsp salt and ⅛ tsp pepper). Toss with the chopped chives and garnish with additional fresh chives just before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sautéed red potatoes offer the perfect balance of crispy edges and tender insides. The combination of butter and olive oil creates a golden, flavorful crust that enhances the natural sweetness of the red potatoes. Simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, this dish makes an excellent side for any meal, whether you’re serving it alongside chicken, steak, or vegetables. Plus, it’s quick enough to be made on any busy weeknight!

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Tips

• Even Cooking: Make sure the potatoes are in a single layer when cooking to ensure even browning. If your skillet is small, consider cooking in batches.
• Cooking Fat: If you want a richer flavor, you can use all butter instead of a combination of butter and olive oil.
• Skillet Type: A cast-iron skillet works especially well for crispy potatoes, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will do.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Herb Variations: Feel free to substitute the chives with fresh parsley, rosemary, or thyme for different flavors.
• Add Garlic: For an extra savory kick, toss in a few crushed garlic cloves while cooking the potatoes.
• Cheese: Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can be sprinkled on top for a cheesy touch.
• Spices: Add a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for some heat and extra flavor.

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FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while red potatoes work best for their creamy texture and thin skin, you can substitute other waxy potatoes, like Yukon Golds. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

Can I make these ahead of time?
These sautéed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare them in advance, you can cook them up to 1-2 hours ahead of time and keep them covered at room temperature. Reheat gently in a skillet to restore some crispiness.

Can I cook these potatoes in the oven instead?
Yes, you can roast the potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and tender. However, this recipe is designed for a stovetop method for that crispy, pan-fried texture.

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Serving Suggestions

These crisp sautéed red potatoes are perfect paired with a variety of main dishes. Try them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh vegetable salad for a balanced meal. They also make a great side for a brunch or holiday feast, and the addition of fresh herbs makes them an excellent accompaniment to dishes like scrambled eggs or poached fish.