Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with flavor? Look no further than Potatoes O'Brien! This classic recipe is a delightful blend of crispy potatoes, savory onions, and vibrant bell peppers, making it the perfect accompaniment to breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It's incredibly versatile, adaptable to your taste, and surprisingly healthy. Ready to dive in? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes a generous serving of Potatoes O'Brien, perfect for four to six people.
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch pieces (russet or Yukon gold work best)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes. Dice them into ½-inch pieces for even cooking. Soaking the diced potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes before cooking helps remove excess starch and ensures crispier results.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add the Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the drained potatoes to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. Season generously with salt.
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Cook Until Tender: Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly browned. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your potato pieces and your stovetop.
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Finish and Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley (if using). Serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Potatoes O'Brien:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will prevent the potatoes from browning properly. If necessary, cook the potatoes in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Paprika, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes would add a nice kick.
- Add some heat: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings.
- Make it ahead: Potatoes O'Brien can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Delicious Variations:
- Bacon O'Brien: Add 4-6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon for extra flavor and richness.
- Cheesy O'Brien: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Breakfast O'Brien: Add some cooked sausage or ham for a hearty breakfast side.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend brunches, or any time you crave a comforting and flavorful side dish. Enjoy your delicious homemade Potatoes O'Brien! They're sure to become a family favorite!