There’s just something magical about Potatoes O’Brien: the way tender, golden potatoes mingle with sweet bell peppers and onion, all kissed by a hint of smoked paprika. This classic skillet side is the ultimate comfort food, whether you’re looking to jazz up your breakfast spread or need a hearty, colorful pairing for dinner. Each bite is a vibrant, savory celebration of flavor and texture, making Potatoes O’Brien a must-try for anyone who loves simple, homestyle cooking with a pop of color and personality.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Potatoes O’Brien is all about simple, honest ingredients coming together to deliver big, cozy flavor. Each component plays a starring role, from the buttery potatoes to the sweet, crisp peppers and punchy onions. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this classic to life:
- Unsalted butter (or oil): Gives the potatoes their rich, golden crust and adds a luxurious flavor to every bite.
- Russet potatoes, peeled and diced: The heart of Potatoes O’Brien; russets get crispy on the outside and stay fluffy inside.
- Red bell pepper, diced: Adds sweetness and a lovely pop of red color to the skillet.
- Green bell pepper, diced: Brings a slight bitterness and vibrant contrast to the dish.
- Medium onion, diced: Offers savory depth and a bit of caramelized sweetness as it cooks.
- Garlic, minced: Just two cloves wake up the whole skillet with irresistible aroma.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses the potatoes with subtle smokiness and a warm, earthy note.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and highlighting all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper: Offers a gentle bite to balance the sweetness of the peppers.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A sprinkle of green on top brightens everything up right before serving.
How to Make Potatoes O’Brien
Step 1: Sauté the Potatoes
Start by melting your butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add those perfectly diced russet potatoes. Let them cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, so they get those irresistible golden edges while starting to soften in the middle. Don’t rush this part—the potatoes need time to develop that signature crispness that makes Potatoes O’Brien so good.
Step 2: Add the Peppers, Onion, and Garlic
Now it’s time for the colorful crew: toss in the diced red and green bell peppers, along with the onion and minced garlic. The kitchen will immediately fill with the most inviting aroma. Stir in the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, making sure everything gets coated in that savory, smoky goodness. This is when Potatoes O’Brien really starts to take shape!
Step 3: Finish Cooking
Continue cooking the mixture for another 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every once in a while. You’re looking for the potatoes to be beautifully golden and fork-tender, and the veggies to be soft and slightly caramelized. If you want extra-crispy potatoes, try cooking in batches and avoid crowding the pan—patience pays off here!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once everything looks perfectly cooked, remove your skillet from the heat. Scatter freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Potatoes O’Brien hot, straight from the pan, and watch them disappear in no time!
How to Serve Potatoes O’Brien
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle your Potatoes O’Brien with fresh parsley or even a few chives. A light dusting of extra smoked paprika or a pinch of flaky sea salt can also add an extra layer of flavor and a little visual flair.
Side Dishes
Potatoes O’Brien is the ultimate breakfast side dish, especially alongside scrambled or fried eggs, crispy bacon, or a breakfast sausage. For dinner, pair them with grilled steak, roast chicken, or even a juicy pork chop—the possibilities are endless, and the potatoes soak up any juices beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to switch things up, try serving Potatoes O’Brien in individual ramekins for a brunch buffet, or pile them onto a breakfast sandwich for a hearty twist. They also make a fantastic base for a veggie hash—just add cooked greens or sautéed mushrooms right into the skillet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Potatoes O’Brien, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, making them perfect for quick breakfasts or easy sides throughout the week.
Freezing
Potatoes O’Brien actually freezes quite well! Spread cooled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, there’s no need to thaw—just reheat straight from frozen for a speedy side.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Potatoes O’Brien in a skillet over medium heat. A splash of oil or butter will help restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can use the oven (spread out on a baking sheet at 375°F until hot), or microwave for convenience, although the texture will be softer.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish, Breakfast
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are classic for Potatoes O’Brien thanks to their fluffy texture, Yukon Golds or red potatoes also work well. Just keep in mind that waxier potatoes tend to hold their shape a bit more and may not get as crispy.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Nope! Leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients. Just be sure to scrub them well before dicing if you prefer a rustic, skin-on Potatoes O’Brien.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply swap the butter for your favorite plant-based oil (like olive or avocado oil) and skip the dairy—Potatoes O’Brien is already loaded with flavor and naturally vegetarian and gluten-free!
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier version. Potatoes O’Brien is a versatile base that welcomes all kinds of tasty additions.
How do I keep the potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Make sure your skillet is well-heated and use enough fat (butter or oil). Also, try not to stir too frequently—letting the potatoes sit for a few minutes at a time helps them develop a crust and naturally release from the pan.
Final Thoughts
There’s just nothing quite like a pan of homemade Potatoes O’Brien to bring a little joy to your table. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is guaranteed to win hearts and fill bellies. Give it a try and make it your own—you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again!
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Potatoes O’Brien Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Potatoes O’Brien is a classic American breakfast side dish featuring tender and golden-brown pan-fried potatoes mixed with colorful bell peppers and onions. Seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, this recipe offers a flavorful, hearty start to your day or a delicious side for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Fats
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or oil)
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and dice the russet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
- Melt butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat to create a flavorful base for the potatoes.
- Cook potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until potatoes begin to brown and soften.
- Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers, diced onion, and minced garlic. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Continue cooking: Cook the mixture for an additional 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender and the vegetables have softened.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley as a garnish before serving to add a fresh note.
Notes
- For crispier potatoes, cook in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.
- Potatoes O’Brien pairs perfectly with eggs for breakfast or as a hearty side dish for steak or chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Breakfast
- Method: Sautéing, Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
