Oven-Fried Potatoes & Onions Recipe: Crispy Perfection in Every Bite!

Oven-fried potatoes and onions are a fantastic, hearty side dish that perfectly complements just about any meal. They’re crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, making them irresistible for potato lovers. Whether you’re serving them with breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is a hit every time.

In this recipe, I’ll walk you through step by step on how to make the ultimate oven-fried potatoes with caramelized onions. The magic happens in the oven as the potatoes become crispy on the outside while remaining tender and fluffy on the inside. Let’s not forget the savory onions, which add a rich, sweet flavor that enhances the dish’s overall taste. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a household favorite!

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious recipe:

• 4 medium russet potatoes (sliced thinly with the skin on)
• 1 large onion (sliced thin)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or parsley (optional for garnish)

These basic ingredients are all you need for a satisfying and filling dish. You can easily find them at your local grocery store. The shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy touch that complements the crispiness of the potatoes, while the green onions or parsley add freshness to the overall flavor.

Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). High heat is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture without burning the potatoes or onions.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
   Thoroughly wash the potatoes under cold water, then dry them with a paper towel. Slice the potatoes into thin rounds—about 1/4 inch thick. Keeping the skin on adds extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.
3. Prepare the Onions
   Peel the onion and slice it into thin rings. Onions add a layer of sweetness and flavor that balances the savory potatoes. Feel free to use yellow onions for a milder taste or red onions if you want a more robust flavor.
4. Season the Potatoes & Onions
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes and onions. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure that the potatoes and onions are evenly coated with seasoning.
5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet
   Spread the seasoned potatoes and onions in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure the potatoes aren’t overlapping too much. This will ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy.
6. Bake for 25-30 Minutes
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through the cooking time. This allows both sides of the potatoes to get crispy.

   Pro tip: For extra crispy edges, you can turn on the oven’s broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. Just be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.

7. Optional: Add Cheese
   After the potatoes are done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and becomes gooey. The combination of crispy potatoes and melted cheese creates an irresistible dish.
8. Serve & Garnish
   Remove the oven-fried potatoes and onions from the oven. If you opted for the cheese, you’ll now have a delightful golden crust. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: By baking the potatoes instead of frying them, this dish is a much healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes. You still get the crispy texture without the excessive oil.
• Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require any special cooking techniques or equipment. All you need is a baking sheet and a few basic ingredients.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, paprika, and thyme gives the potatoes a bold, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the onions. The optional cheddar cheese adds creaminess and richness.

Tips for Perfect Oven-Fried Potatoes

• Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are starchy, making them ideal for baking. They crisp up beautifully and maintain a soft center. You could also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you prefer a creamier texture.
• Don’t Skimp on the Oil: Although we’re not deep frying, a generous amount of olive oil is essential for getting that crispy texture in the oven. If you’re concerned about calories, you can reduce the amount slightly but remember that the oil helps in the caramelization process.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• Add Bacon for Extra Flavor: For an even heartier dish, you can sprinkle some cooked, crumbled bacon over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will add a smoky, savory flavor that’s sure to please.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare because these potatoes are usually devoured quickly!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer to regain some of that crispy texture.

Oven-fried potatoes and onions are a versatile dish that works wonderfully as a side or a hearty snack. Whether you’re enjoying them with a juicy steak or alongside scrambled eggs for breakfast, this recipe is sure to be a winner. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with the optional add-ins like cheese and bacon for even more flavor.

Enjoy making this delicious dish, and feel free to share it with your family and friends!