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The Ultimate Crispy Breakfast Potatoes: Skillet, Oven, and Air Fryer Methods Compared

A large mound of perfectly golden and crispy breakfast potatoes seasoned with spices, piled high on a white plate.
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Learn how to make perfectly crispy breakfast potatoes with a fluffy inside using three simple cooking methods: skillet, oven-roasting, and air frying. This easy potato side dish is seasoned for savory flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, diced into 1/2 inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
  • 1 small onion, diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Wash and dice the potatoes into uniform 1/2 inch cubes. Do not peel them for maximum crispiness.
  2. Rinse the diced potatoes under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch. Dry them completely using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Complete drying is key for crispiness.
  3. Season the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the dried potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary until evenly coated. If using onion, add it now.
  4. Choose your cooking method:
  5. Skillet Method (Quickest): Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add potatoes in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning every 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Reduce heat if potatoes brown too quickly before cooking through.
  6. Oven-Roasted Method (Hands-off): Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
  7. Air Fryer Method (Most Crispy): Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Place potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer or slightly overlapping (do not overcrowd). Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes until they reach your desired crispness.
  8. Serve immediately as a perfect side dish for eggs or bacon.

Notes

  • For the fluffiest inside and crispiest outside, you can par-boil the diced potatoes for 5 minutes before seasoning and cooking. Drain and dry them thoroughly before proceeding with your chosen method.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
  • This recipe is naturally Gluten Free and Vegan.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/crispy-breakfast-potatoes-skillet-oven-air-fryer/