why make this recipe
German Fried Potatoes, or “Bratkartoffeln,” is a delicious way to enjoy everyone’s favorite vegetable – the potato! This dish combines crispy potatoes with flavorful bacon and onions, making it a hearty side or main course. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip this up any time, and it’s sure to please both family and friends. Plus, it captures the essence of comfort food and is perfect for any meal of the day.
how to make German Fried Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 100g bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- Add the sliced potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Stir in the crispy bacon and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
how to serve German Fried Potatoes
German Fried Potatoes are best served hot. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with grilled meats or sausages for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream can add a nice touch if you want extra creamy goodness. This dish also works well as a side with grilled chicken or steak!
how to store German Fried Potatoes
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also add a splash of oil to help them crisp up again!
tips to make German Fried Potatoes
- Make sure to cut the potatoes into even slices for uniform cooking.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; let the potatoes sit in the pan to get crispy.
- If needed, you can add a little more oil to help the potatoes brown nicely.
- Experiment with different seasonings like garlic or paprika for extra flavor.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor and texture. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and replace it with smoked paprika to give a nice smokey flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other kinds of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just make sure they are firm and less starchy for the best results.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the bacon and onions ahead of time and store them separately. Just cook the potatoes just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free! Always check any pre-packaged items, especially bacon, to ensure they are gluten-free.
Enjoy making and sharing this hearty German Fried Potatoes recipe!

German Fried Potatoes (Bratkartoffeln)
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- Add the sliced potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Stir in the crispy bacon and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.