Name: Oven Fried Potatoes Onions: Crispy, Healthy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks; 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon paprika; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Oven Fried Potatoes Onions: Crispy, golden brown, and bursting with savory flavor, this isn't your average side dish – it's a culinary experience! Forget soggy fries and bland baked potatoes; we're talking about a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!).

While the exact origins of combining potatoes and onions in cooking are lost to time, the pairing itself is a testament to resourceful and delicious home cooking. Both ingredients are staples in countless cultures, prized for their versatility and ability to complement a wide range of dishes. Think of hearty Irish stews, comforting French onion soup, or even simple, rustic Spanish tortillas – potatoes and onions are the unsung heroes of the culinary world.

But what makes oven fried potatoes onions so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of crispy edges and tender interiors, the sweetness of caramelized onions mingling with the earthy flavor of potatoes. Plus, baking them in the oven means you get all the deliciousness of fried potatoes with significantly less oil and mess. It's a win-win! People love this dish because it's incredibly easy to make, satisfyingly flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your next meal with this simple yet spectacular recipe!

Ingredients:

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Potatoes and Onions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that crispy, oven-fried texture we're after. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you even think about putting the potatoes in!
Prepare the potatoes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into roughly 1-inch chunks. Try to keep the pieces relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. Nobody wants some potatoes that are perfectly cooked while others are still hard!
Prepare the onions. Thinly slice the yellow onion. I like to use a mandoline for this to get really even slices, but a sharp knife works just fine. The thinner the slices, the better they'll caramelize in the oven.
Parboil the potatoes (optional, but recommended!). This step helps to soften the potatoes slightly before they go into the oven, resulting in a creamier interior and crispier exterior. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato chunks and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but not falling apart. Drain the potatoes well and let them steam dry for a few minutes. This is a key step for achieving that perfect texture!

Seasoning and Coating:

Combine the spices. In a large bowl, whisk together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. This is our flavor bomb! Adjust the amounts to your liking, but this combination is a winner.
Toss with olive oil. Add the olive oil to the bowl with the spices and whisk to create a paste. This helps the spices adhere to the potatoes and onions.
Coat the potatoes and onions. Add the parboiled (or raw, if skipping the parboiling step) potatoes and sliced onions to the bowl with the spice mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure that the potatoes and onions are evenly coated with the oil and spices. Use your hands to really get in there and make sure every piece is covered.
Add the cornstarch. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the potatoes and onions. Toss again to coat. The cornstarch helps to absorb any excess moisture and creates an extra crispy coating. Don't skip this step!

Cooking Process:

Prepare the baking sheet. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. You can also use a silicone baking mat.
Arrange the potatoes and onions. Spread the potatoes and onions in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this will prevent them from browning properly. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy, and the onions are caramelized. Flip the potatoes and onions halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Check for doneness. To check if the potatoes are done, pierce them with a fork. They should be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. The onions should be soft and caramelized.

Serving:

Remove from oven. Once the potatoes and onions are cooked to your liking, remove the baking sheet from the oven.
Garnish. Sprinkle the oven-fried potatoes and onions with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve immediately. Serve the oven-fried potatoes and onions immediately while they are still hot and crispy. They are delicious on their own as a side dish, or as part of a larger meal. They pair perfectly with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a simple salad.
Enjoy! These oven-fried potatoes and onions are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy potatoes, caramelized onions, and flavorful spices is simply irresistible. Enjoy!

Tips for Extra Crispy Potatoes:

Don't overcrowd the pan. This is the most important tip! Overcrowding the pan will steam the potatoes instead of frying them. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
Use high heat. 400°F (200°C) is the sweet spot for getting crispy potatoes.
Parboil the potatoes. This step helps to soften the potatoes and create a creamier interior.
Use cornstarch. Cornstarch helps to absorb moisture and create a crispy coating.
Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning on all sides.
Don't be afraid to add more oil. If the potatoes look dry during cooking, drizzle a little more olive oil over them.

Variations:

Add other vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
Use different spices. Experiment with different spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Some ideas include smoked paprika, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.
Add cheese. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
Make it spicy. Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
Use different potatoes. While Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for this recipe, you can also use Russet potatoes or red potatoes.

Storage and Reheating:

Leftover oven-fried potatoes and onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Microwaving is not recommended, as it will make them soggy.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Calories: 250-300
Fat: 15-20g
Saturated Fat: 2-3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 300-400mg
Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Fiber: 3-5g
Sugar: 5-7g
Protein: 3-5g

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions are truly a game-changer. Forget soggy fries and greasy pans – this recipe delivers crispy, golden perfection with minimal effort and maximum flavor. I know, I know, "oven-fried" might sound like an oxymoron, but trust me on this one. The high heat and clever technique create a texture that rivals, and in my humble opinion, surpasses, traditional frying. Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste and texture, it's incredibly versatile. It's a fantastic side dish for just about anything – grilled steak, roasted chicken, juicy burgers, even a simple veggie omelet. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser! I've made this for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a weeknight dinner, and it's always a hit. The combination of the sweet caramelized onions and the perfectly crisp potatoes is simply irresistible. But the best part? It's so easy to customize! Feeling adventurous? Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky kick. Want a little heat? A pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick. For a more herbaceous flavor, try adding some dried rosemary or thyme. And don't be afraid to experiment with different types of potatoes! Russets are classic, but Yukon Golds will give you an extra creamy interior, and red potatoes will add a slightly sweet and earthy note. Serving suggestions? Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving these Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives. A side of creamy garlic aioli is also a winner. For a heartier meal, try topping them with crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. And if you're feeling really fancy, a drizzle of truffle oil will elevate them to gourmet status. Another great variation is to add other vegetables to the mix. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini would be delicious additions. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables will cook faster than others. You could also try using different types of onions, like red onions or shallots, for a slightly different flavor profile. I'm telling you, once you try this recipe, you'll never go back to regular fries again. It's the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and easy, making it a weeknight staple and a party favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, grab some potatoes and onions, and get ready to experience the magic of Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions. I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can't wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I'll do my best to answer them. I'm confident that this will become a regular part of your meal rotation. Enjoy!