Golden, crispy on the edges, soft on the inside, and infused with the deep aroma of garlic and herbs, these Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast with eggs or as a savory dinner companion, they’re guaranteed to steal the spotlight on any plate.


What makes these skillet potatoes so irresistible is the simple technique of pan-crisping them to golden perfection. Tossed in olive oil, garlic, and a touch of butter, then finished with fresh herbs, this dish delivers texture and flavor in every bite. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights and special weekend brunches alike.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes Recipe
This dish hits all the right notes—crispy, savory, garlicky, and satisfying. It uses just a few pantry staples but delivers maximum flavor. It’s also incredibly versatile: serve it as a hearty breakfast, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a quick and easy side dish.
You’ll love how easy it is to customize. Add cheese for a gooey finish, or toss in caramelized onions or cooked bacon bits to take it to the next level.
What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for This Recipe?
For the best results, go for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These varieties hold their shape well during cooking and develop that golden, crispy crust without falling apart. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, which are better suited for baking or mashing.
Ingredients for the Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes
To make these skillet potatoes shine, every ingredient serves a flavorful purpose.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These hold their shape beautifully and crisp up perfectly on the outside while staying creamy inside.
- Olive Oil: Helps get that golden, crispy finish and adds richness.
- Butter: Adds depth and a luxurious mouthfeel to balance the garlic.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses the oil and coats the potatoes in rich flavor.
- Fresh Thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness and fragrance that pairs wonderfully with potatoes.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning every layer.
How To Make the Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes
Step 1: Prep and Slice the Potatoes
Wash and scrub your Yukon Gold potatoes well, then slice them into ⅔ inch thick rounds. Keeping them even helps ensure they cook uniformly.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large cast iron or non-stick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Step 3: Add and Arrange Potatoes
Place the sliced potatoes in a single layer in the skillet. It’s okay if they slightly overlap, but avoid crowding too much. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crispy.
Step 4: Flip and Season
Carefully flip each potato slice using tongs or a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and sprinkle fresh thyme over the top. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until both sides are beautifully crisp.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with a little extra thyme if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Serving and Storing Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes
This recipe serves approximately 4 people as a side dish, making it a fantastic addition to weeknight meals or brunch spreads.
Serve them hot straight from the skillet for the ultimate crispy bite. If you’re prepping ahead, you can reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes to revive their texture. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make them soggy.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet or oven.
What to Serve With Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes?
H3: Fried or Poached Eggs
Runny yolks pair beautifully with the crispy texture of the potatoes.
H3: Grilled Steak or Chicken
These potatoes make a flavorful and filling side to any protein.
H3: Fresh Garden Salad
A refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the dish.
H3: Garlic Butter Shrimp
A seafood pairing that complements the garlicky flavor in the potatoes.
H3: Roasted Vegetables
Add some color and nutrients to your plate with seasonal roasted veggies.
H3: Crispy Bacon
For breakfast or brunch, a classic duo that always works.
H3: Sour Cream or Aioli Dip
Perfect for dipping or drizzling, adds a creamy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of potato?
Yes, while Yukon Gold is ideal, red potatoes also work great. Avoid Russets as they tend to break apart.
Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
You can partially cook and store them, but they’re best served fresh. Reheat in a skillet or oven for optimal crispiness.
What herbs can I substitute for thyme?
Rosemary or parsley make excellent substitutes. You can even add chives or dill for a different flavor twist.
Do I need to parboil the potatoes first?
No need to parboil! Slicing them thin and cooking them directly in the skillet makes them crisp while staying tender inside.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! A sprinkle of Parmesan or shredded cheddar during the last couple of minutes will add a delicious cheesy finish.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use rosemary instead of thyme? Maybe tried it with sweet potatoes?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.
For more comforting food ideas, check out my Pinterest where I share my favorite daily recipes: Life With Livia Pinterest.
Conclusion
Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes are a deliciously simple side that brings restaurant-level flavor to your kitchen. With just a few ingredients and one skillet, you can whip up golden, herby potatoes that everyone will be asking for again and again. Give them a try and see just how addictive they can be.
Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Garlic Skillet Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal. With their golden edges, soft centers, and herby garlic flavor, they make a mouthwatering addition to your breakfast ideas, dinner ideas, or any quick and easy recipe lineup. Whether you’re after a healthy snack, hearty side, or satisfying comfort food, this easy recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
800g Yukon Gold potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Wash and scrub the potatoes, then slice them into ⅔-inch thick rounds.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Arrange potato slices in a single layer in the skillet.
5. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden brown on one side.
6. Flip each slice, season with salt, pepper, and sprinkle with thyme.
7. Cook another 5-7 minutes until crispy on both sides.
8. Serve hot with extra thyme on top if desired.
Notes
For extra crispiness, don’t overcrowd the skillet.
Use a cast-iron pan for even heat distribution.
Add shredded cheese or bacon for a flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: crispy garlic potatoes, skillet potatoes, easy recipe, quick side, brunch ideas




