Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes

If there's one side dish that consistently steals the show at my dinner table, it's these Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes. Golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and infused with the rich aroma of garlic and herbs, this potato dish is the ultimate comfort food. I love how simple ingredients transform into something so crave-worthy, making this recipe a must-have for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend meals.

I’ve tested countless versions of crispy potatoes, but nothing hits quite like the crackling edges and buttery centers you get from cooking them in a hot skillet. The garlic infuses into the oil, the herbs coat every slice, and the cheese crisps up into an irresistible golden crust. Whether you're pairing it with a roast or enjoying it solo with a dollop of sour cream, this one always satisfies.

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Why You’ll Love This Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes Recipe

This dish brings together everything we love about comfort food — crispy textures, savory depth, and minimal effort. The skillet method ensures every potato slice gets the right balance of crunch and softness, while the garlic and herbs elevate it from basic to unforgettable. It’s naturally gluten-free, budget-friendly, and a total crowd-pleaser.

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What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes?

I prefer using Yukon Golds for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape under high heat. Russets can work, too, if you’re after a slightly fluffier center and crispier edges. The key is slicing them thin and evenly so they cook uniformly. Leave the skins on for added texture and rustic flair.

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Options for Substitutions

• Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper finish, or try a dairy-free version for a vegan-friendly twist.
• Herbs: Use rosemary, thyme, or even Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs are ideal, but dried ones work beautifully too.
• Garlic: Freshly minced is best, but garlic powder will do in a pinch.
• Oil: Olive oil gives a nice flavor, but you can also use butter or avocado oil depending on your taste and dietary needs.

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Ingredients for this Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes Recipe

• Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their buttery texture and thin skin make them ideal for crisping up in the skillet without needing to peel.
• Olive Oil: Helps to fry the potato slices evenly while carrying the flavor of the garlic and herbs.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the oil and adds a punch of flavor to every bite.
• Parmesan Cheese: Creates a lacy, golden crust on the bottom and adds umami richness.
• Dried Thyme and Rosemary: These herbs add depth and fragrance, enhancing the rustic profile.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the potatoes to perfection.

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Step 1: Slice the Potatoes Thinly

Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to cut the potatoes into thin, even slices — about ⅛ inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and crisp up nicely. No need to peel them, unless preferred.

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Step 2: Preheat the Skillet and Infuse the Oil

In a large cast iron or oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the herbs and turn off the heat.

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Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

Start layering the potato slices in a circular pattern, overlapping slightly. Once the first layer is down, sprinkle with a bit of salt, pepper, and Parmesan. Repeat until all the potatoes are used up, seasoning each layer.

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Step 4: Cook on the Stovetop First

Place the skillet back on medium heat and cover with a lid. Let the potatoes cook for about 10–12 minutes. This helps them begin softening and lets the bottom layer crisp.

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Step 5: Finish in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) and roast uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are crispy. You should see some browning on the top and hear that signature sizzle when it’s ready.

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Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to serve without falling apart. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley or a touch more cheese.

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How Long to Prepare the Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes

Prep Time: Slicing the potatoes and preparing the skillet with garlic and herbs takes about 15 minutes. If you're using a mandoline, it's even quicker.

Cook Time: You’ll need roughly 10–12 minutes on the stovetop to start the cooking process, then 20–25 minutes in the oven. Add about 5–10 minutes resting time after baking, so the total time from start to finish is approximately 45–50 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes

• Always slice the potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and crisping.
• Preheat the skillet before layering the potatoes to get that golden crust.
• Don’t rush the stovetop step — it helps kickstart the crisping process.
• A cast iron skillet is ideal, but any oven-safe skillet works well.
• Letting the dish rest before serving makes it easier to slice and serve clean portions.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Too Thick Slices: Thick potato slices won’t cook through properly and will lack that signature crispness.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Make sure the potatoes are slightly overlapping but not jammed in — they need a bit of room to crisp.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can go from golden to bitter in seconds. Keep heat low while infusing the oil.
• Not Enough Oil: Skimping on oil can lead to dry, unevenly cooked potatoes.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Slicing too soon causes the layers to fall apart.

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What to Serve With Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes?

1. Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken

Juicy and flavorful, it pairs perfectly with the crispy, garlicky potatoes.

2. Grilled Steak

A hearty combo that lets the crispy potatoes shine alongside savory, juicy steak.

3. Fried or Poached Eggs

For a savory brunch or breakfast-for-dinner situation, top with runny eggs.

4. Garlic Butter Shrimp

The freshness of shrimp and richness of garlic complement each other beautifully.

5. Mixed Green Salad

Add a light, fresh contrast to the richness of the potatoes.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Let the potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: For best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it softens the crisp edges.

Freezing: Not recommended — the texture of the potatoes becomes mushy after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving — based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best type of pan to use?

A cast iron skillet works best for even heating and achieving that crispy bottom layer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and layer the potatoes earlier in the day, then cook when ready.

How do I make it vegan?

Use a plant-based cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether and increase the herbs.

Is peeling the potatoes necessary?

Not at all. In fact, the skin adds flavor and texture. Just scrub them well.

Can I add onions or other veggies?

Absolutely! Thin-sliced onions or bell peppers make tasty additions between layers.

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Conclusion

Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes are the ultimate side dish — simple to prepare, full of flavor, and versatile enough to pair with anything from eggs to steak. With the right technique and a few pantry staples, you’ll have a dish that’s golden, garlicky, and completely satisfying. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

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