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Roasted Potatoes

Roasted Potatoes

Roasted Potatoes are a crispy, golden exterior and soft, fluffy inside comfort food, perfect as a versatile side dish for any meal. This simple recipe uses basic ingredients and easy techniques to achieve perfectly crisp, flavorful potatoes every time, with options for customizing flavors to suit any taste or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 2 pounds starchy potatoes (Russets or Yukon Golds), washed and cut into 1 to 1.5 inch chunks

Seasoning and Oil

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme), chopped

Additional Flavoring

  • 4 garlic cloves, whole or smashed

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika and pinch of cayenne pepper for spicy kick
  • Zest of 1 lemon for fresh citrus twist
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for cheesy crunch
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast and 1 teaspoon mixed dried herbs for vegan herb blend
  • Chopped green onions, cooked bacon bits, and sour cream for loaded style toppings

Instructions

  1. Choose and Prep Your Potatoes: Select firm, blemish-free starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Wash thoroughly and peel if desired. Cut into evenly sized chunks about 1 to 1.5 inches wide for uniform cooking.
  2. Parboil for Extra Fluffiness: Place potato chunks in a pot of boiling salted water for 5 to 7 minutes until edges soften but centers remain firm. This removes excess starch and jumpstarts cooking, ensuring a fluffy interior after roasting.
  3. Drain and Rough Up the Edges: Drain potatoes in a colander and gently shake to roughen surfaces. This texture increases crispiness during roasting.
  4. Season and Oil Generously: Transfer potatoes to a large bowl. Drizzle olive oil over them, then sprinkle salt, black pepper, and chopped herbs evenly. Toss to coat all sides thoroughly for maximum flavor and browning.
  5. Roast at High Heat: Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet to avoid steaming. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 40 to 50 minutes, turning once halfway through for even crisping.
  6. Add Garlic and Finish Roasting: About 10 minutes before the end, scatter whole or smashed garlic cloves over the potatoes and continue roasting. This allows the garlic to soften and caramelize without burning, adding aromatic depth.
  7. Serve Hot and Enjoy: Remove the potatoes once golden and crispy. Let rest for a minute, then serve immediately to enjoy the perfect crispy outside and fluffy inside.

Notes

  • Use a heavy, sturdy metal baking sheet for even heat and better crisping.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; leave space between potato pieces to prevent steaming.
  • Dry potatoes thoroughly after parboiling; moisture inhibits crispiness.
  • Turn potatoes halfway through roasting to brown all sides evenly.
  • Add fresh delicate herbs like parsley or chives right before serving for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted potatoes, crispy potatoes, side dish, comfort food, easy potato recipe