This Potatoes Fried In Duck Fat recipe is made with mixed baby potatoes, duck fat, kosher salt, smoked sea salt, and crumbled queso fresco. This recipe creates a rich, crispy potato side dish. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4.
Potatoes Fried In Duck Fat Ingredients
- 25 Mixed Baby Potatoes, Scrubbed And Washed
- 2 Tablespoons Kosher Salt
- 3 Tablespoons Duck Fat
- 1 Teaspoon Smoked Flaky Sea Salt
- 1 Teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1 Teaspoon Fresh Thyme Leaves
- 1 Tablespoon High-quality Honey
- ½ Cup Crumbled Queso Fresco
How To Make Potatoes Fried In Duck Fat
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a medium pot, cover with water, add kosher salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Drain and Cool: Drain the potatoes and let them cool.
- Smash the Potatoes: Once cool, gently press each potato with the palm of your hand until slightly smashed but not broken.
- Heat the Duck Fat: Heat a large cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the duck fat.
- Fry the Potatoes: When the fat is shimmering, add the potatoes in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed.
- Crisp Both Sides: Cook the potatoes until golden on one side, then flip and crisp the other side, about 5 minutes per side.
- Season the Potatoes: Season with smoked salt, pepper, and thyme leaves.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer to a platter, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with queso fresco.

Recipe Tips
- Use Baby Potatoes: Their size and texture are ideal for smashing and frying.
- Don’t Over-Smash: Press just enough to flatten without breaking them apart.
- Work in Batches: Overcrowding the pan prevents crisping—be patient.
- Preheat the Pan Well: Hot fat ensures a good sear and crispy crust.
- Add Cheese Last: Sprinkle queso fresco right before serving to maintain texture.
What To Serve With Potatoes
This crispy potato dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled fish, or a simple green salad. It’s also excellent alongside fried eggs or as a savory brunch side.
How To Store Potatoes
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispiness.
Freeze: Not recommended, as freezing affects the texture and crispiness.
Potatoes Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 260
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, just cut them into smaller pieces and follow the same process.
What can I use instead of duck fat?
Goose fat or even high-quality olive oil works, though flavor will vary.
Is queso fresco necessary?
It adds a nice tang, but you can substitute with feta or skip it.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead. Fry and garnish just before serving.
Potatoes Fried In Duck Fat Recipe
Course: DinnerCuisine: American4
10
minutes20
260
kcalCrispy smashed baby potatoes fried in rich duck fat and finished with honey and queso fresco.
Ingredients
25 Mixed Baby Potatoes, Scrubbed And Washed
2 Tablespoons Kosher Salt
3 Tablespoons Duck Fat
1 Teaspoon Smoked Flaky Sea Salt
1 Teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
1 Teaspoon Fresh Thyme Leaves
1 Tablespoon High-quality Honey
½ Cup Crumbled Queso Fresco
Directions
- Place the potatoes in a medium pot and cover with water. Season with kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Drain and let the potatoes cool.
- Smash each potato gently with the palm of your hand.
- Heat a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add duck fat.
- When hot, place the potatoes in a single layer. Work in batches if needed.
- Fry until golden on one side, then flip and crisp the other side, about 5 minutes per side.
- Season with smoked salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Transfer to a platter, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with queso fresco.

I’m Ava Taylor. I’m A Self-taught Home Cook Who Loves Gordon Ramsay Recipes. I Try Every Dish In My Small Apartment Kitchen And Tweak It Until It Works. I Write Clear Steps With Simple Words So Anyone Can Follow. I Share Honest Wins, Mistakes, And Quick Tips To Help You Cook With Confidence.
