Roasted Potato Recipe

These oven-roasted potatoes are incredibly simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a tasty side dish with minimal effort! Feel free to use dried herbs, or if you have fresh ones available, they'll enhance the flavor even more.

And if you're looking for more reasons to love this recipe, here they are:

• Flavorful Crispness: Roasting brings out a deliciously crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside tender and fluffy.
• Ease of Preparation: Roasted potatoes are relatively easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and simple techniques, they can complement almost any meal.
• Satisfaction: The combination of textures—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—provides a satisfying eating experience.
• Appeal to Everyone: Roasted potatoes are universally enjoyed across different age groups and culinary preferences, making them a popular choice for gatherings and everyday meals alike.

When making roasted potatoes, the best varieties to use are typically waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or red potatoes. These types hold their shape well during roasting and develop a crispy exterior while remaining creamy inside.

Yukon Gold potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor that adds richness to the dish, while red potatoes offer a slightly firmer texture that crisps beautifully. Both varieties are versatile enough to absorb flavors from seasonings and herbs, enhancing the overall taste profile of the roasted potatoes.

Their size also makes them easy to cut into uniform pieces, ensuring even cooking and a satisfying crunch. However, other varieties like fingerling potatoes, russets, German butterballs, and yellow potatoes can also be used effectively.

Potatoes

Potatoes are the star of this recipe. While peeling them before roasting is optional, leaving the skin on adds a delicious flavor. The additional taste from the skins of russet or Idaho potatoes, along with the attractive appearance and color of red-skinned potatoes, enhances the dish.

If using small potatoes, simply cut them in half; for tiny ones, a quick poke with a fork or knife before baking allows steam to escape, ensuring even cooking.

Olive Oil

Olive oil coats each potato piece evenly, ensuring they crisp up to a golden-brown exterior during roasting. Beyond its culinary function as a heat conductor that promotes even cooking, olive oil imparts a rich, fruity flavor that enhances the natural earthiness of the potatoes.

This oil's versatility extends to adding depth and a hint of Mediterranean flair to the dish, making roasted potatoes not only crispy and savory but also subtly aromatic and visually appealing.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder evenly coats each potato piece with a savory garlic essence, ensuring a consistent flavor throughout the dish without the risk of burning, as fresh garlic might. This powdered form enhances the potatoes' taste with a mild yet distinctive garlic punch, contributing to the overall savory profile of the dish.

Its ease of use makes it a practical choice for achieving a balanced garlic flavor, complementing the crispy exterior and creamy interior of the roasted potatoes without overpowering other ingredients.

Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavors and aromas to roasted potatoes. Popular choices like rosemary, thyme, and parsley add a fresh, aromatic dimension that complements the earthy sweetness of the potatoes. Their green leaves not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also infuse it with bursts of freshness and herbaceous notes.

Sprinkled over the potatoes just before serving, fresh herbs maintain their brightness and contribute to a balanced, flavorful experience. They are versatile enough to be tailored to personal taste preferences, making each batch of roasted potatoes a unique culinary creation.

Paprika

Whether sweet, smoked, or hot, paprika enhances the dish with its unique characteristics. Sweet paprika offers a mild, slightly sweet taste, while smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the roasted notes of the potatoes.

Hot paprika adds a spicy kick for those who prefer a bit of heat. Beyond flavor, paprika's bright red hue intensifies during roasting, giving the potatoes an appetizing appearance.

Salt and Pepper

Salt not only enhances the natural taste of the potatoes but also draws out moisture, which helps achieve a crispy exterior during roasting. It balances the flavors and brings out savory notes in the dish. Pepper adds a subtle spiciness, complementing the earthy sweetness of the potatoes with mild heat.

Adjusting these seasonings allows for customization to suit individual preferences, making them fundamental components of delicious roasted potatoes.

Here's how you can roast potatoes in the oven:

Ingredients

• 2 pounds red or yellow-skinned potatoes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh herbs, finely chopped (parsley, rosemary, thyme, basil)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

• Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Prepare the potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Cut the potatoes into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Adjust your cutting method based on the size variation among the potatoes; smaller ones may be halved, while larger ones can be quartered.
• No need to peel the potatoes: Leave the skin on for added texture and flavor.
• Season the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato chunks with olive oil, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.

• Arrange on a baking sheet: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even roasting.
• Roast in the oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can toss them halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Serve hot: Once roasted, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful roasted potatoes as a side dish or snack!

Roasting time for potatoes in the oven typically ranges from 30 to 35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). However, cooking time can vary based on the size of the potato chunks and your desired level of crispiness.

It's a good idea to check them around the 30-minute mark and adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the desired texture—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can leave them in the oven for a few extra minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

The optimal temperature for roasting potatoes in the oven is typically around 400°F to 425°F. This temperature allows the potatoes to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. Roasting at this temperature also helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the potatoes, enhancing their flavor.

If you prefer a slightly lower temperature, you can roast them at 375°F (190°C), but keep in mind that cooking times may need to be adjusted accordingly.

1. Use the convection bake setting if available

When using the oven's convection setting, airflow circulates continuously, ideal for achieving crispy, golden-brown edges on roasted vegetables. If using this setting, begin checking your potatoes earlier than usual, as it can often reduce cooking times.

2. Place them cut side down

Position them with the cut side down to ensure they make direct and consistent contact with the hot pan, resulting in beautiful browning!

3. Avoid crowding the potatoes on the baking sheet

When potatoes are crowded, they tend to steam rather than roast, resulting in a softer texture and less crispy exterior. Proper spacing allows hot air to circulate around each potato, ensuring they cook evenly and develop a golden-brown crust.

This technique promotes a better texture and flavor, enhancing the overall quality of the roasted potatoes.

4. Potatoes stuck?

When roasted potatoes stick to the baking sheet, it's tempting to pull them off forcefully, which can ruin their crispy exterior. Instead, patience is key. Allow the potatoes to cool slightly, and they'll often release from the pan on their own as they contract.

This ensures you retain that delicious crust intact, making for better presentation and texture when serving.

5. Only toss once

Disturbing them too often can prevent proper browning and crispiness from developing. Allowing the potatoes to cook undisturbed initially ensures they form a caramelized surface. This technique promotes even cooking and a more visually appealing dish when serving.

To store leftover roasted potatoes, ensure they cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container or resealable bag. Refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Roasted potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

For longer storage, they can be frozen in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, you can crisp them up again by using an oven or toaster oven to maintain their texture, rather than a microwave which can make them soggy. This method preserves their roasted flavor and texture for enjoyable leftovers.

Roasted potatoes complement a wide range of main dishes and can be served alongside various proteins and vegetables. Here are some delicious options to consider:

• Roast Chicken: A classic pairing, the savory flavors of roast chicken and roasted potatoes go hand in hand.
• Grilled Steak: The hearty richness of steak pairs well with the crispy texture of roasted potatoes.
• Baked Salmon: Roasted potatoes add a comforting element to lighter fish dishes like salmon.
• Vegetarian Options: Serve with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
• Pork Tenderloin: Roasted potatoes complement the flavors of pork tenderloin, providing a balance of textures.
• Roast Lamb: The robust flavors of lamb are enhanced by the simple yet flavorful side of roasted potatoes.
• Salads: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal, adding a contrasting texture and warmth.

These pairings offer a mix of flavors and textures that make roasted potatoes a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.

Or Add Toppings

Roasted potatoes are versatile and can be enhanced with various toppings to add extra flavor and texture. Here are some delicious toppings that complement roasted potatoes:

• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley add a burst of freshness. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes for a kick of spice.
• Cheese: Grated Parmesan, cheddar, or crumbled feta can be sprinkled over hot roasted potatoes for a creamy, savory touch.
• Sauces and Dips: Drizzle with garlic aioli, sour cream, or a tangy yogurt sauce mixed with lemon juice and dill.
• Crispy Bits: Add crunch with crispy bacon bits, fried onions, or toasted breadcrumbs for a satisfying texture contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Toss roasted potatoes with caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a medley of flavors.
• Nuts and Seeds: Toasted pine nuts, sesame seeds, or chopped almonds can add a nutty crunch and depth of flavor.
• Salsa or Chutney: Serve with fresh tomato salsa, mango chutney, or a tangy barbecue sauce for a burst of sweet and spicy flavors.

These toppings can elevate roasted potatoes from a simple side dish to a standout component of your meal, offering a variety of tastes and textures to suit different preferences.