Love Potatoes? Try These Sides!
Potatoes – they’re the comfort food we all know and love, right? Whether you’re making them for a quick snack, a hearty side dish, or even the main event, potatoes are so versatile. Seriously, there are so many ways you can prepare them! If you’re looking to get a little more creative with your potato game, I’ve got you covered. Here are 14 different ways to make potatoes, from crispy to creamy, baked to mashed. Let’s dive in!
1. Classic Mashed Potatoes
Let’s start with the basics – mashed potatoes. You can’t go wrong with this classic. Just boil potatoes until soft, mash ‘em up with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt, and you’re golden. Add some garlic or cream cheese for a twist, or keep it simple and smooth. Perfect for almost any meal!
2. Baked Potatoes
Sometimes, you just want to go old-school with a baked potato. Pierce your potato a few times with a fork, pop it in the oven, and bake at 400°F for about an hour (or until soft inside). Top with sour cream, chives, cheese, bacon bits – you get the picture. It’s the perfect base for whatever toppings you love.
3. French Fries
Who doesn’t love crispy, golden fries? Whether you’re deep frying them or baking them for a healthier twist, they’re always a hit. Season with your favorite spices – I’m partial to a little paprika and garlic powder. Serve them with ketchup, aioli, or whatever dipping sauce you fancy.
4. Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish. Toss your potatoes (I like to use baby potatoes) with olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and a bit of salt and pepper. Roast them in the oven until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re super easy and make the kitchen smell amazing!
5. Potato Wedges
Potato wedges are a fun way to enjoy potatoes without all the work of French fries. Cut your potatoes into wedges, coat them in olive oil and seasonings, and bake them until golden and crispy. These are perfect for dipping in ketchup or your favorite sauce.
6. Twice-Baked Potatoes
Twice-baked potatoes are like a loaded baked potato, but better. Bake your potato until soft, scoop out the flesh, mix it with butter, cheese, sour cream, and bacon, then stuff it back into the potato skin. Pop them back in the oven until everything is bubbly and golden. Pure indulgence.
7. Potato Salad
Potato salad is the perfect side dish for picnics or summer BBQs. Boil your potatoes until tender, then mix them with mayo, mustard, pickles, and hard-boiled eggs. You can keep it classic or add in some green onions, bacon, or herbs for extra flavor.
8. Potato Soup
Nothing beats a bowl of warm, creamy potato soup on a cold day. Cook potatoes with onions, garlic, and broth, then blend it all together for a creamy base. Add some cheese, bacon bits, and chives for extra flavor. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for when you need some cozy food.
9. Hash Browns
Crispy hash browns are perfect for breakfast. Shred your potatoes, squeeze out the excess water, and fry them up with butter in a skillet until they’re crispy and golden. Add some onion or cheese if you want to make them extra flavorful. Serve them with eggs, and you’ve got a breakfast that’ll keep you full all morning.
10. Potato Gratin (or Dauphinoise Potatoes)
If you’re in the mood for something a little more decadent, potato gratin is the way to go. Thinly slice potatoes and layer them with heavy cream, garlic, and cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden. It’s rich, creamy, and the perfect side for any special occasion (or just because).
11. Loaded Potato Skins
Potato skins are the ultimate snack or appetizer. Bake potatoes until soft, scoop out the insides, then fill the skins with cheese, bacon, and green onions. Pop them back in the oven to melt the cheese, and serve with sour cream. Trust me, these are addictive!
12. Potato Tacos
For a fun twist on tacos, try adding potatoes to the mix! Sauté diced potatoes with onions, peppers, and spices, then stuff them into soft tortillas. Top with salsa, avocado, and sour cream for a hearty and satisfying taco that’s a little different from the norm.
13. Potato Croquettes
Potato croquettes are like little fried mashed potato balls. You take mashed potatoes, roll them into balls, dip them in breadcrumbs, and fry until golden and crispy. You can stuff them with cheese or ham, or keep them simple. They make a great snack or side dish.
14. Potato Frittata
Potatoes are a great addition to a frittata. Sauté diced potatoes with onions and garlic, then pour beaten eggs over the top. Cook until set, and finish under the broiler for a golden top. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it – 14 ways to cook potatoes that will take you beyond the usual mashed variety. From crispy fries to cozy soups, potatoes are versatile enough to fit every meal and craving. And the best part? Most of these recipes are super easy, so even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can still whip up something delicious.
