Are you craving some crispy, delicious home fries? Do you want to learn how to make them at home? One small (1-3/4" to 2-1/4" dia, raw) potato yields approximately 96 calories. Here's everything you need to know to make perfect home fries every time!

Home fries are a classic American dish consisting of diced potatoes that are fried until crispy and golden brown. They're often served as a breakfast side dish but can also be enjoyed as a snack or with lunch and dinner.

Making home fries at home is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. With the right kind of potato and the proper seasonings, you can recreate your favorite diner-style home fries in your own kitchen. Let's get started!

What are home fries?

Home fries are made from raw potatoes that are peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces. The potatoes are then cooked in a pan with oil or butter until crispy and golden brown. The end result is a delicious and satisfying side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Home fries are similar to hash browns, but they're usually made with diced potatoes rather than shredded. While hash browns are often cooked on a griddle, home fries are typically prepared in a pan on the stove.

How many calories are in one small home fry?

One small (1-3/4" to 2-1/4" dia, raw) potato yields approximately 96 calories. The actual number of calories in your homemade home fries will depend on the amount of oil or butter you use to cook them. If you're watching your calorie intake, opt for lighter cooking oils such as olive oil or coconut oil. You can also reduce the amount of oil or butter you use to cook your home fries to cut down on calories.

Why are small potatoes preferred for making home fries?

Small potatoes are preferred for making home fries because they cook faster and more evenly than larger potatoes. When preparing home fries, it's important to dice the potatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure that they cook evenly. Using small potatoes will also give you more control over the texture of your home fries. Smaller potatoes tend to be less starchy than larger potatoes, which means they won't break down as much when cooked.

What are some common seasonings used for home fries?

The seasonings you use for your home fries will depend on your personal preferences. Some common seasonings for home fries include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cumin. You can also add fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley to your home fries for extra flavor. Experiment with different seasonings to create your perfect blend!

How are home fries typically cooked?

To make home fries, start by dicing your potatoes into small, uniform pieces. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add oil or butter. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the potatoes to the pan. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they're crispy and golden brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Can home fries be made healthier?

Yes, you can make home fries healthier by using lighter cooking oils such as olive oil or coconut oil. You can also reduce the amount of oil or butter you use to cook your home fries to cut down on calories. To add extra nutrition to your home fries, try adding vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the pan. You can also use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a healthier twist.

What are some common variations of home fries?

There are many variations of home fries, depending on what ingredients you add to the pan. Some common variations include adding cheese, bacon, or sausage to the pan while cooking the potatoes. You can also create a Tex-Mex style home fry by adding jalapenos, black beans, corn, and chili powder to the pan. Or try a Mediterranean twist by adding feta cheese, olives, and oregano.

What type of potatoes are best for making home fries?

The best type of potato for making home fries is a small, waxy potato such as a red or Yukon gold potato. These types of potatoes hold their shape well when cooked and have a creamy texture that's perfect for home fries. Russet potatoes can also be used for home fries, but they tend to be more starchy and may break down more easily when cooked.

What dishes pair well with home fries?

Home fries pair well with a variety of main courses, such as eggs, bacon, sausage, and toast for breakfast. They're also a great side dish for sandwiches, burgers, and grilled meats for lunch or dinner. You can also serve home fries with a salad for a lighter meal or with roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.

How can leftover home fries be reheated?

Leftover home fries can be reheated in a pan on the stove or in the oven. To reheat on the stove, heat a pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the leftover home fries to the pan and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. To reheat in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the leftover home fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy.