Crispy Roasted Red Potatoes: Your Easy, Flavorful, and Versatile Side Dish
Prepare to elevate your mealtime with these incredibly delicious and crispy roasted red potatoes! Perfectly seasoned with a harmonious blend of olive oil, savory garlic salt, pungent minced garlic, fragrant black pepper, and fresh thyme, these potatoes emerge from the oven golden-brown on the outside and wonderfully tender on the inside. They are not just a side dish; they are a culinary staple, offering unparalleled versatility that allows them to complement virtually any main course you can imagine. From a quick weeknight dinner to a festive holiday spread, these roasted red potatoes promise to be a show-stopping addition to your table, delighting taste buds with every bite.
Why This Recipe Works: The Perfect Potato Side
When it comes to crafting the ideal side dish, our choice consistently falls on roasted red potatoes, and for excellent reasons. Their inherent qualities make them perfectly suited for roasting, resulting in a dish that is both nutritious and incredibly flavorful. Red potatoes boast a thin, delicate skin that’s not only packed with beneficial nutrients but also crisps up beautifully in the oven, adding a delightful textural contrast to the soft interior.
Unlike some other potato varieties, red potatoes are categorized as waxy potatoes. This means they have a lower starch content and a higher moisture content, allowing them to maintain their shape remarkably well after cooking. You won’t end up with a mushy mess; instead, you’ll get distinct, fork-tender pieces with that coveted golden-brown exterior. This structural integrity is key to their success as a roasted vegetable.
Another brilliant aspect of these savory roasted potatoes is how little they truly need to shine. We lean into the power of simple, high-quality seasonings to bring out their natural deliciousness without overpowering them. A straightforward combination of garlic salt, freshly ground black pepper, vibrant fresh thyme, and aromatic minced garlic does the trick perfectly. This subtly seasoned profile is crucial, as it keeps the potatoes neutrally flavored enough to pair seamlessly with a vast array of main courses. Imagine them alongside the rich flavors of teriyaki salmon, the zesty notes of cilantro lime grilled chicken, or the luxurious taste of beef tenderloin – they complement every dish without competing for attention. Their ease of preparation combined with their irresistible taste and adaptable nature makes them an indispensable part of any home cook’s repertoire.
Simple Ingredients You Will Need for Roasted Red Potatoes
Crafting these perfectly roasted red potatoes requires just a handful of accessible ingredients that work in harmony to deliver incredible flavor. You likely already have many of these pantry staples on hand! For precise measurements, a detailed list of ingredients, and comprehensive instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post. It’s designed to make your cooking experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Ingredient Information and Smart Substitution Suggestions
Understanding your ingredients is key to successful cooking and opens up a world of customization. Here’s a closer look at what goes into our roasted red potatoes and how you can adapt the recipe to your taste or what you have on hand:
POTATOES – While our recipe specifically calls for beautiful baby red potatoes, their larger counterparts, regular-sized red potatoes, work just as wonderfully. The trick is to ensure they are cut into uniformly sized, bite-sized chunks. This promotes even cooking, guaranteeing every piece is perfectly tender and crispy. Red potatoes are favored for roasting due to their waxy texture and thin skin, which holds its shape and crisps up beautifully. If red potatoes aren’t available, Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent substitute, offering a similar waxy texture and buttery flavor. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they tend to become drier and fluffier, not quite achieving the desired crispy-tender balance for this particular dish.
SEASONINGS – Our foundational flavor comes from garlic salt, black pepper, aromatic minced garlic, and fresh thyme. This combination creates a savory, earthy profile that is universally appealing. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices:
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary, oregano, or marjoram can be used instead of or in addition to thyme, lending different aromatic notes. Dried herbs can also work, just use about half the amount of fresh herbs, as their flavor is more concentrated. For a brighter, fresher taste, consider adding chopped fresh dill or parsley toward the end of roasting or as a garnish.
- Spices: For a touch of warmth and color, a pinch of paprika (sweet or smoked) is a fantastic addition. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder can provide a subtle kick. Italian seasoning offers a ready-made blend of Mediterranean flavors. Onion powder can also enhance the savory depth.
- Other Flavors: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest after roasting can add a bright, acidic finish. For a cheesy flavor, grated Parmesan cheese can be tossed with the potatoes before roasting.
OLIVE OIL – A good quality olive oil is essential here, not only for flavor but also for achieving that desirable crispy exterior. It coats the potatoes, helping the seasonings adhere and promoting even browning. If you need a substitute, avocado oil is a great alternative due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
How to Make Roasted Red Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are designed to help you visualize each stage of making this incredibly satisfying recipe. For a convenient printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and full instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy exteriors and ensuring the potatoes cook through evenly and quickly. A hot oven immediately sears the outside, locking in moisture and preventing sogginess.
- Prepare the potatoes. Begin by thoroughly washing your red potatoes. While we recommend leaving the skin on for maximum nutrients and crispiness, ensure they are clean. Cut smaller potatoes in half. For larger red potatoes, quarter them, or cut them into whatever size ensures all pieces are roughly even in size. Consistency in size is key for uniform cooking.
- Whisk together the seasoning mixture. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and fresh thyme. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors when tossed with the potatoes.
- Season the potatoes thoroughly. Transfer the cut potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared seasoning mixture over the potatoes. Using gloved hands (or clean bare hands), toss the potatoes vigorously, ensuring every single piece is completely coated in the oil and seasoning blend. This hands-on approach guarantees maximum flavor saturation and optimal crisping.
- Arrange on a baking sheet. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure adequate space between the potatoes. Overcrowding will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, leading to a less crispy result. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper is also a great tip for easy cleanup.
- Bake to golden perfection. Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are ready when they are beautifully browned, slightly crispy on the edges, and fork-tender throughout. For extra crispiness, you can flip them halfway through the cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Roasted Red Potatoes
For these roasted red potatoes, we highly recommend leaving the skin on. Not only does the skin pack a nutritional punch with extra vitamins and fiber, but it also plays a crucial role in achieving that sought-after crispy texture. The thin skin becomes delightfully crisp and golden when roasted, adding a rustic charm and a satisfying crunch. While you can scrub the potatoes well to remove any blemishes, there’s no need to peel them. Trust us, they truly are at their best when roasted with the skin intact.
It is not necessary to boil red potatoes before roasting for this recipe. Our method ensures they get perfectly tender on the inside and crispy on the outside without the extra step of pre-boiling. Some recipes do call for boiling potatoes beforehand, usually to achieve an even crispier result, especially with starchier potato varieties. However, with waxy red potatoes, the direct roasting method works beautifully, saving you time and effort while still delivering fantastic texture. If you prefer to par-boil, you certainly can, but you’ll find they do just fine without the additional work!
Absolutely! Red potatoes are among the best choices for roasting. Their waxy nature, characterized by lower starch and higher moisture content, allows them to hold their shape remarkably well under high heat. This means they won’t crumble or become overly mushy in the oven. Instead, they transform into tender morsels with a perfectly crisp, flavorful skin. They offer a delightful balance of creamy interior and satisfyingly firm exterior, making them ideal for a range of roasted dishes.
To keep any leftover roasted red potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain delicious for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through. For optimal crispness that rivals their fresh-from-the-oven state, we highly recommend reheating them in an air fryer for a few minutes. This method helps restore their crispy exterior beautifully.
Several factors contribute to truly crispy roasted potatoes. First, ensure your potatoes are completely dry after washing; excess moisture turns to steam and prevents browning. Pat them thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Second, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each potato piece enough space so air can circulate around it. If they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of roast. Third, use a high oven temperature (like 400°F or 200°C) and a good amount of oil to conduct heat. Finally, for an extra boost, consider pre-heating your baking sheet in the oven before adding the potatoes. The immediate sizzle helps create a fantastic crust!
While red potatoes are ideal due to their waxy texture and thin skin, you can certainly experiment with other varieties. Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent second choice as they also have a waxy-to-medium starch content and thin skin that crisps well. Fingerling potatoes work wonderfully too. For a different flavor profile, small new potatoes (of any color) can be used. Just remember to cut all potatoes into even, bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking times and optimal texture.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Roasted Red Potatoes
The beauty of these garlic and herb roasted red potatoes lies in their incredible versatility. Their balanced, savory flavor profile makes them a stellar companion for an astonishing variety of main courses, enhancing any meal without overpowering it. They are truly a chameleon in the kitchen, adapting effortlessly to different cuisines and occasions. Consider serving them with:
- Poultry: A classic pairing with roasted chicken, turkey breast, or grilled chicken like our cilantro lime grilled chicken.
- Beef: Excellent alongside a juicy steak, our tender beef tenderloin, pot roast, or even simple burgers.
- Pork: A perfect complement to pork chops, a roasted pork loin, or savory pork tenderloin.
- Seafood: They beautifully balance the delicate flavors of fish, such as teriyaki salmon, broiled cod, or baked shrimp.
- Vegetarian Dishes: Pair them with hearty veggie burgers, a lentil loaf, or a vibrant mixed green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Beyond the main course, you can also elevate your roasted red potatoes with simple garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of a creamy garlic aioli can transform them into an even more indulgent treat. For a touch of zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens all the flavors. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special holiday feast, these potatoes are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
More Delicious Roasted Vegetable Recipes
If you love the simplicity and flavor of roasted vegetables, you’ll be thrilled to explore more of our easy and delicious recipes:
- Roasted Beets
- Roasted Carrots
- Roasted Asparagus
- Pan Roasted Broccoli
- Roasted Green Beans
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Roasted Red 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
- 1 ½ pounds baby red potatoes halved. Large potatoes should be quartered
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 ½ Tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
Things You’ll Need
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Baking sheet
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Large mixing bowl
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Vinyl gloves
Before You Begin
- You can use regular sized red potatoes, simply cut them into bite sized chunks.
- Store leftover roasted red potatoes in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in a 400F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the air fryer to keep them nice and crispy.
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 F.
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Cut small potatoes in half, and larger potatoes in quarters, or whatever makes them evenly sized.
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Whisk together all ingredients except the potatoes.
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In a large bowl using gloved hands, toss potatoes with seasoning mix until completely covered.
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Place potatoes on a baking sheet.
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Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until browned and tender.
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.