Pan-fried potatoes with garlic

Pan-fried potatoes with garlic feature crispy potatoes enhanced by aromatic garlic and a splash of lemon juice. This simple side dish is perfect for any meal.

10 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

10 potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp lemon juice

Pan-fried potatoes with garlic is a delicious and simple side dish that brings out the rich flavors of crispy potatoes and aromatic garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty brunch. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that pairs well with almost any main course.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and peel the potatoes thoroughly.
- Cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes or slices, ensuring they are not too thick to allow for even cooking.

2. Boil the Potatoes (Optional but recommended for faster cooking):
- Place the potato pieces in a large pot and cover them with water.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked.
- Drain the potatoes and let them sit for a few minutes to dry.

3. Heat the Pan:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and combine with the olive oil.

4. Pan-Fry the Potatoes:
- Once the oil and butter are hot, carefully add the cubed or sliced potatoes to the skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches.
- Cook the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes on one side until they start to turn golden brown.
- Flip the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly on all sides, continuing to cook for another 5-7 minutes until all sides are golden and crispy.

5. Add the Garlic:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the finely minced garlic to the pan.
- Stir the garlic through the potatoes, allowing it to cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.

6. Finish with Lemon Juice:
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of lemon juice over the potatoes, stirring gently to evenly distribute the juice.
- Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve:
- Remove the pan from heat.
- Transfer the pan-fried potatoes to a serving dish.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for an extra touch of flavor.

8. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy as a delicious side dish or a stand-alone snack.

Pan-fried potatoes with garlic is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that's both easy to prepare and delightful to taste. The golden crust of the potatoes combined with the rich flavor of garlic creates a savory experience that is sure to impress. Serve them hot for best results and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends.

Pan-fried potatoes with garlic FAQ:

What is the best way to know when the potatoes are done frying?

The potatoes are done frying when they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. You can check for doneness by piercing a cube with a fork; it should be tender inside.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes such as Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes. Each variety will slightly change the flavor and texture.

How can I store leftovers, and how long do they last?

Store any leftover pan-fried potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Is there a good substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can substitute the butter with additional olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option.

What should I do if the garlic starts to burn while cooking?

If the garlic starts to burn, remove the pan from heat immediately to prevent bitterness. You can then lower the heat before adding it back to the pan.

Tips:

- Cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

- Use a large pan to avoid overcrowding and to allow each potato piece to get crispy.

- Start with high heat to get a good sear on the potatoes, then reduce the heat to cook them through without burning.

- Be patient and resist the urge to move the potatoes too often, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust.

- Add garlic towards the end of cooking to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.

- Experiment with additional seasonings such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika for extra flavor.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 2.88g
Fat 7g

Pan-fried potatoes with garlic