Smothered Potatoes: A Comforting and Crispy Potato Dish for the Whole Family
When you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to please everyone around the table, Smothered Potatoes is the dish you need. This comforting recipe, passed down from my mom, is a wonderful way to stretch a meal, and it’s especially loved for the crispy, cheesy potatoes that everyone will fight over. Perfect for both family dinners and a filling side, these smothered potatoes are made with a few simple ingredients, yet deliver incredible taste and texture. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry crowd or just looking to create a filling meal for your family, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
Recipe Information
| Category | Potato Dish |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Recipe Yield | 4 servings |
| Calories per Serving | 715.7 kcal |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Cuisine | Comfort food, American |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (peeled and sliced) | 7-8 medium |
| Medium Cheddar Cheese | 12-14 slices |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | 1-2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 715.7 kcal |
| Total Fat | 38.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 19.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 88.2 mg |
| Sodium | 544 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 66.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g |
| Sugar | 3.3 g |
| Protein | 28.4 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and slicing the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. These slices will cook more evenly and ensure that every bite has a tender interior with a crispy exterior.
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Pre-cook the Potatoes: In a large microwave-safe dish, add the sliced potatoes and pour in enough water to cover the potatoes by about an inch. Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high for 10 minutes, checking halfway through (after 5 minutes) to ensure they are tender but not overcooked. The microwave will help soften the potatoes without taking too much time.
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Heat the Skillet: While the potatoes are microwaving, heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Using a non-stick skillet is crucial here to ensure that the potatoes don’t stick, allowing them to develop that golden, crispy texture.
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Fry the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are microwaved, carefully dry them off with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place the potato slices in the hot skillet in a single layer. Let them fry undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they start turning golden brown and crispy. Don’t rush this process—it’s the crispy edges that will make this dish irresistible.
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Steam and Finish Cooking: After most of the potatoes are nicely browned, reduce the heat to low-medium. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the potatoes steam for 5-10 minutes. This will help cook them through while keeping the crispy edges intact. Continue gently turning the potatoes during this time to ensure even cooking.
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Add the Cheese: Once the potatoes are crispy and tender, layer the medium cheddar cheese slices on top. Use around 12-14 slices, depending on your preference for cheesiness. Lower the heat to low and cover again to allow the cheese to melt. The heat will also help to “smother” the potatoes, giving them that creamy, cheesy texture.
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Season to Taste: After the cheese has melted, remove the lid and season with salt and black pepper to taste. The salt enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes, while the pepper adds a bit of spice to balance the richness of the cheese.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is cooked and the cheese has melted, serve the smothered potatoes hot. They’re a perfect side dish for any meal, or even as a filling main dish for a hearty vegetarian dinner. Everyone will be fighting for the crispiest potato!
Tips for Perfect Smothered Potatoes:
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Choice of Potatoes: For the best results, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets. These potatoes hold their shape well when cooked and crisp up beautifully in the skillet.
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Crispier Potatoes: If you prefer even crispier potatoes, try using a cast-iron skillet. The heavy pan will distribute heat more evenly, allowing for a perfectly crisp texture.
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Customization: Feel free to get creative with your cheese choice. While cheddar is a classic, you could also use mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of different cheeses to suit your taste.
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Serving Suggestions: Smothered Potatoes make a great side dish to meats like grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pork chops. They’re also a fantastic accompaniment to a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Conclusion
This Smothered Potatoes recipe is the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s a dish that will fill up your family and leave them asking for more, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a filling side for your next dinner party. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the rich flavor and comforting textures, makes this recipe a family favorite. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness—and remember, the fight for the crispiest potatoes is half the fun!
Enjoy!
