Fried Potato Nuggets: the Recipe for a Super Crunchy Side Dish Ready in Just a Few Minutes!

Everyone loves potatoes, in every shape and form. There's never going to be enough recipes with potatoes, which is why we have decided to contribute to making the archive a bit bigger with our Fried Potato Nuggets! A tasty and quick appetizer, or even a side dish if you're craving something crunchy to accompany your main course, they're a vegetarian variant of the classic chicken nuggets, also ideal to have during brunch or an aperitif with your friends this summer.

They're made with just a few ingredients – an onion, potatoes and cornstarch – and they're surprisingly quick and easy as well! All you need to do is grate the potatoes and onion, before frying them in a pan and mixing them with the cornstarch and salt. Once you've formed the nuggets, you'll have to fry them in boiling hot oil. Everyone will love them, we can assure you!

What Are Fried Potato Nuggets?

Potato nuggets, those golden, crispy bites of comfort, have a history rooted in simplicity and resourcefulness. Originating as a way to utilize leftover potatoes, these tasty morsels quickly became a beloved snack across various cultures. Combining grated potatoes and onions with a touch of cornstarch, then frying to perfection, they offer a delightful blend of softness and crunch. Initially a humble, homemade treat, potato nuggets have evolved into a popular appetizer and side dish worldwide, appreciated for their versatility and irresistible flavor.

Tips for The Best Fried Potato NuggetsChoose the Right Potatoes

• Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets. Their high starch content helps create a fluffier interior while still achieving that desirable crispy exterior.
• After grating the potatoes and onion, make sure to drain any excess moisture. You can use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for achieving a crisp texture.
• Salt is essential, but feel free to experiment with additional seasonings. A pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper can elevate the flavor of your nuggets.
• Make sure your oil is hot before adding the nuggets. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the nuggets will absorb more oil and become greasy. Aim for a temperature of around 350°F (175°C).
• After frying, place the nuggets on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This helps keep them crispy and less greasy.
• Potato nuggets are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve them immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.

What Are The Best Types of Potatoes To Use For This Recipe?

The best types of potatoes are starchy varieties like Russets. Their high starch content helps create a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior, making them ideal for achieving the perfect texture in your nuggets.

How Can I Enrich These Nuggets?

To enrich potato nuggets, add ingredients like grated cheese, minced garlic, herbs (such as parsley or chives), or spices (like paprika or black pepper) to the potato mixture. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or tangy ketchup, to enhance their flavor.

Can I Make These in The Air Fryer Instead?

Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the shaped nuggets in a single layer, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Why Are My Nuggets Soggy and Not Crispy?

Potato nuggets can turn out soggy instead of crispy if the potatoes are not drained well after grating, if the oil is not hot enough, or if the pan is overcrowded during frying. Ensuring the oil is properly preheated and not overcrowding the pan will help achieve a crispy texture.

Can I Make These Nuggets in Advance?

Yes: shape and fry them as directed, then let them cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until crispy before serving.

Can I Freeze These Potato Nuggets?

Yes, you can freeze potato nuggets. After shaping and frying them, let them cool completely. Place the nuggets on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven or air fryer until crispy and hot.

What Can I Serve These Fried Potato Nuggets With?

Potato nuggets pair well with main dishes like grilled chicken, burgers, fish fillets, or a fresh garden salad. These options complement the crispy nuggets and create a balanced meal.

More Potato Recipes For All Potato-Lovers

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Garlic Sage Roasted Potatoes

Crispy Potato Stacks

Crispy Potato Sticks

How to Store Fried Potato Nuggets

Store potato nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag; they will keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven or air fryer before serving.

How to Make Fried Potato Nuggets

Grate the onions.

Then, grate the potatoes.

Transfer to the pan with oil and fry for a few minutes, until they become soft. Remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl.

Add the cornstarch to the potatoes and onion, a pinch of salt and mix with a spatula to combine.

Using a spoon, take a bit of mixture and form a nugget shape with your hands.

Transfer to the cutting board and fix the shape, forming bigger nuggets.

Transfer them to the frying pan and fry them in boiling hot oil until they are golden and crispy on both sides.

Serve them all together on a serving dish and eat while still hot and crispy. If you want, you can accompany them with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!