Perfect Garlic Roasted Potatoes Recipe: Crispy Outside, Tender Inside with Shallots
Prepare to elevate your side dish game with these incredible oven-roasted garlic potatoes. Infused with aromatic shallots and a generous amount of garlic, these potatoes boast a beautifully golden-brown, crispy exterior while remaining incredibly soft and tender on the inside. This classic, versatile side dish is guaranteed to complement a wide array of main courses, making it an instant family favorite!
Why These Garlic Roasted Potatoes are a Must-Try
Garlic roasted potatoes truly stand out as the ultimate side dish. Their incredible versatility allows them to perfectly complement virtually any main course, whether you’re serving vegetarian fare, hearty meats, or delicate fish. You simply can’t go wrong! We’re big fans of potatoes in all their forms, from crispy air fryer roasted potatoes to classic roast potatoes and even flavorful potato wedges. But there’s something truly special about the magic that happens when potatoes meet garlic in a hot oven.
What makes this specific recipe shine is the generous use of garlic and the addition of shallots. We’re talking minced garlic, whole garlic cloves, and a touch of garlic salt – a triple threat of garlicky goodness! You can even use garlic-infused olive oil for an extra depth of flavor if you have it on hand. In our culinary opinion, when it comes to garlic, more is definitely better, transforming these humble potatoes into golden, flavor-packed treasures.
The secret to their success lies in a few simple yet effective techniques. Roasting at the right temperature ensures the potatoes cook through evenly while allowing their natural sugars to caramelize, creating that desirable crispy crust. The combination of olive oil, salt, pepper, and the star ingredients – garlic and shallots – creates a robust flavor profile that’s both comforting and incredibly delicious. By not overcrowding the baking sheet, we ensure each potato piece gets ample hot air circulation, preventing them from steaming and instead encouraging them to crisp up perfectly. It’s a foolproof method for achieving potato perfection every time.
Essential Ingredients for Your Roasted Potatoes
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. You can find all exact measurements, specific ingredients, and detailed instructions in the convenient printable version of this recipe located at the end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Let’s take a closer look at the key components of this delightful dish and explore some helpful tips and potential substitutions to tailor it to your pantry and preferences.
- POTATOES: For this recipe, Yukon Gold potatoes are our top choice because their waxy-starchy balance creates a tender interior and a wonderfully crisp skin without needing to be peeled. This saves you valuable prep time! Their creamy texture holds up beautifully to roasting. If Yukon Golds aren’t available, baby Yukon Golds or red potatoes are also excellent alternatives. Red potatoes, with their thinner skin and slightly higher water content, will also roast well, though they might be a touch softer than Yukon Golds. Avoid overly starchy potatoes like Russets unless you plan to parboil them first, as they can become mushy if not handled correctly for roasting. Always wash your potatoes thoroughly before cutting, regardless of whether you peel them.
- GARLIC: The star of the show! You’ll need both freshly minced garlic (or the convenient jarred variety for quick prep) and a quarter cup of whole, peeled garlic cloves. Using both forms of garlic provides layers of flavor – the minced garlic disperses evenly, infusing every bite, while the whole cloves soften and sweeten in the oven, becoming incredibly tender and spreadable. For the whole cloves, we recommend grabbing at least two heads of garlic, as the size of individual cloves can vary significantly. Don’t shy away from garlic; its pungent aroma mellows and sweetens during roasting, becoming irresistibly fragrant. If you have garlic olive oil, it’s a fantastic addition for an extra boost of flavor.
- SHALLOTS: Often mistaken for small onions, shallots offer a milder, sweeter, and more delicate onion flavor with subtle garlic undertones. They caramelize beautifully during roasting, adding another layer of aromatic complexity that perfectly complements the potatoes and garlic. If shallots are unavailable, you can substitute with finely diced red onion or sweet onion, though the flavor will be slightly stronger.
- OLIVE OIL: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for both flavor and achieving that coveted crispiness. It acts as a conductor for heat, helping the potatoes to brown evenly. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil if preferred, as they also have high smoke points suitable for roasting.
- SEASONINGS: Beyond garlic salt and black pepper, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs can be tossed in with the potatoes for an earthy aroma. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of onion powder can also enhance the overall flavor profile. Adjust the amount of garlic salt based on your preference and the salt content of your minced garlic (if using jarred).
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Perfect Garlic Roasted Potatoes
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you visually through the process of making this irresistible recipe. For a quick jump to the printable version, complete with all measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of the page.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensuring your oven is fully preheated is crucial for achieving that initial burst of heat that helps create a crispy exterior.
- Rinse the potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry, then cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniform size as much as possible to ensure even cooking. Larger pieces will take longer, smaller pieces might burn.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined. This creates our flavorful coating.
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared oil mixture over the potatoes, then add the chopped shallots. Using gloved hands (to prevent staining and keep the smell off your skin), toss everything together thoroughly until every potato piece is evenly coated with the seasoned oil.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes onto a large baking sheet in a single layer. This is vital for crispiness; overcrowding will cause the potatoes to steam rather than roast. Scatter the whole garlic cloves evenly among the potatoes.
- Carefully place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. For even crisping, consider flipping the potatoes halfway through the cooking time. The potatoes are done when they are deeply golden brown and fork-tender.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Roasted Potatoes
For roasting, Yukon Gold potatoes are often considered the champion. They strike the perfect balance between waxy and starchy, resulting in a wonderfully tender-crisp texture that doesn’t fall apart during the roasting process. Their thin skin also means no peeling required, saving you time! Red potatoes are another excellent choice; they have a higher water content, leading to a softer interior, but they still crisp up nicely. While Russet potatoes can be roasted, they are very starchy and might require parboiling first to achieve a desirable texture and prevent them from becoming too floury.
Store any leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) spread in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are warmed through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can easily warm them back up in an air fryer using its reheat function for a quick and crisp refresh. To maintain optimal crispness, avoid covering freshly roasted potatoes, as this can trap steam and make them mushy.
For this specific recipe using Yukon Golds or red potatoes, parboiling is not strictly necessary as they achieve a great crispy exterior and tender interior through direct roasting. However, if you’re aiming for *ultra-crispy* potatoes or using a starchier variety like Russets, a quick parboil (boiling for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but still firm) can help. Draining them well and roughing up the edges before tossing with oil can create more surface area for crisping.
Several factors contribute to extra crispy roasted potatoes: 1. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the potatoes plenty of space so hot air can circulate around each piece. Use two baking sheets if needed. 2. High heat: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for browning. 3. Enough oil: Ensure all potato surfaces are lightly coated in olive oil. 4. Dry potatoes: Patting the cut potatoes dry before tossing with oil helps remove surface moisture, which hinders crisping. 5. Flip halfway: This ensures even browning on all sides.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Your Roasted Garlic Potatoes
Once your garlic roasted potatoes are beautifully golden and tender, consider a final flourish. Garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a vibrant pop of color and a fresh herbal note. These potatoes are incredibly versatile, making them a superb accompaniment to a wide variety of main courses, from succulent red meat and poultry to delicate fish and rich pork dishes.
Imagine them alongside a juicy cast iron ribeye steak, tender cilantro lime grilled chicken breasts, savory baked pork chops, or flaky teriyaki salmon for a truly complete and satisfying meal. For vegetarian options, they pair wonderfully with hearty lentil loaf, mushroom burgers, or a vibrant roasted vegetable medley. Always serve them warm, directly from the oven, to enjoy their peak crispness and flavor. As an important tip, avoid covering your finished roasted potatoes if they’re going to sit for a moment, as trapped steam can quickly turn their crispy exterior mushy. If they happen to be ready before your other dishes, a quick flash in the oven or air fryer before serving will bring back their irresistible crunch.
Explore More Delicious Potato Recipes
If you’re a potato lover, you’re in the right place! We have a treasure trove of potato-centric recipes that are sure to satisfy every craving. From comforting classics to exciting new flavors, there’s a potato dish for every occasion. Discover more ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable:
- Creamy Funeral Potatoes
- Classic Au Gratin Potatoes
- Hearty Baked Potato Soup
- Elegant Hasselback Potatoes
- Sweet and Savory Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- Fiery Spicy Potatoes
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes cut into 1-inch cubes (no need to peel)
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt
- ½ tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (fresh or jarred)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped shallots
- ¼ cup garlic cloves peeled, whole (from approx. 2 heads of garlic)
Things You’ll Need
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Large Baking Sheet
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Mixing bowls
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Vinyl gloves
Before You Begin: Important Notes & Tips
- Potato Prep: For Yukon Gold potatoes, there is absolutely no need to peel them; their skin crisps up beautifully. If you’re using baby Yukon Golds or red potatoes, the same applies. Always ensure your potatoes are thoroughly rinsed and patted dry before cutting for optimal crispiness.
- Garlic Variety: You have flexibility with garlic! Use freshly minced garlic for the most vibrant flavor, or opt for the convenient bottled variety. The 1/4 cup of whole garlic cloves will soften and sweeten as they roast, adding another layer of depth. We recommend having at least two bulbs of garlic on hand to ensure you get enough whole cloves, as their size can vary. It’s always a good idea to have a little extra for future culinary adventures!
- Storage & Reheating: Any leftover roasted potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat and bring back their delightful crispness, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Alternatively, an air fryer set to its reheat function works wonders for a quick refresh. Avoid covering them once cooked, as this can trap steam and make them soft.
- Even Cooking: To achieve consistent browning and tenderness, cut your potatoes into pieces of similar size, ideally around 1-inch cubes.
- Don’t Overcrowd: This is a critical tip for crispy potatoes. Ensure the potatoes are spread in a single layer on your baking sheet with some space between them. If your baking sheet is too small, use two to avoid steaming.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to a precise 400°F (200°C). This high initial heat is key for developing a beautiful crispy crust on your potatoes.
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Rinse the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly under cool running water. Pat them completely dry with a clean towel, then cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Uniform sizing is important for even cooking.
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In a small bowl, combine the garlic salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and olive oil. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a well-blended aromatic mixture.
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Transfer the cubed potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared oil and seasoning mixture over the potatoes, then add the chopped shallots. Using clean gloved hands, toss everything vigorously until every single potato piece is thoroughly and evenly coated.
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Arrange the seasoned potatoes on a large baking sheet, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer without overcrowding. This step is crucial for achieving crispiness. Dot the potatoes evenly with the whole, peeled garlic cloves.
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Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are beautifully golden brown and fork-tender. For extra crispiness, you may want to flip them once or twice during the baking process.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.