The Ultimate Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes Recipe: Your Go-To Side Dish
Transform your meals with these incredibly delicious Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes! This recipe promises a perfect side dish every time, featuring potatoes with sumptuously buttery, deeply garlicky flavor, a wonderfully fluffy interior, and an irresistibly golden, crispy exterior. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate holiday feast, these potatoes are guaranteed to impress. The best part? Everything comes together effortlessly on just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Simple to execute, bursting with flavor, and consistently perfect, this recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s destined to become a beloved family staple.

What Makes These Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes Irresistible?
What truly sets this Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes recipe apart from the rest? It’s a masterful blend of simplicity, incredible versatility, and unparalleled flavor! These potatoes are more than just a side; they are a foolproof culinary secret weapon, ready to elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine them complementing the juicy tenderness of a Garlic Herb Roast Chicken or cutting through the rich, savory notes of a perfectly seared, browned butter steak. By combining tried-and-true roasting techniques with a generous, aromatic garlicky twist, this recipe transforms humble potatoes into a golden, crispy, and flavor-packed sensation. Prepare for rave reviews – this dish is guaranteed to become a cherished family favorite, requested again and again!
The secret lies in a few key principles: precise cutting for even cooking, high heat for maximum crispness, and a generous application of fresh garlic that permeates every bite. Unlike many roasted potato recipes that can turn out soggy or bland, our method ensures each potato cube boasts a deeply golden, crunchy crust while remaining wonderfully soft and fluffy on the inside. This harmonious contrast in textures and the bold, savory flavor profile are what truly make these garlic roasted potatoes stand out.
Crispy Garlic Potatoes: Key Ingredients for Perfection

The exceptional flavor and texture of these Crispy Garlic Potatoes don’t come from complex techniques, but from the careful selection and masterful combination of a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect buttery, garlicky taste, fluffy interior, and incredibly crispy exterior:
- Potatoes: For the ultimate balance of a creamy, tender interior and a beautifully crispy skin, opt for waxy-starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or small red potatoes. Their lower starch content compared to russets helps them hold their shape better while developing that coveted crisp exterior. This is precisely why they were the star in my Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes. When shopping, always look for firm, unblemished potatoes free from any green spots or sprouts, which can indicate bitterness or an older potato. Medium-sized potatoes are ideal for consistent, even cooking.
- Fresh Garlic: This is the heart of the “garlic” in our Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes. There’s simply no substitute for fresh garlic, as its robust, pungent flavor is essential for this dish. Choose firm, heavy garlic heads with tight, dry, unblemished skin. Avoid any bulbs that feel soft or show signs of sprouting, as these can be past their prime. For easy peeling and mincing, lightly crush the cloves with the flat side of a chef’s knife before removing the skin. You’ll want a generous amount to infuse every bite with its aromatic goodness.
- High-Quality Oil: A good quality olive oil or a neutral-flavored canola oil is essential for helping the potatoes achieve their golden, crispy crust. The oil not only conducts heat efficiently but also adds to the rich flavor profile of the dish.
- Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: These basic seasonings are anything but basic in their impact. Coarse sea salt provides a delightful textural crunch and enhances the overall flavor, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick that beautifully complements the garlic.
- Fresh Parsley: Flat-leaf parsley, also known as Italian parsley, is the perfect finishing touch. Its vibrant, fresh, slightly peppery flavor and bright green color provide a beautiful contrast to the rich, golden potatoes. Look for crisp, bright green leaves without any wilting or yellowing. Remember to wash and thoroughly pat the parsley dry before chopping to ensure it remains fresh and doesn’t make your dish watery. It’s the final flourish that ties all the flavors and visuals together!
*Note: For a comprehensive list of ingredients and precise measurements, please refer to the detailed Recipe Card conveniently located at the bottom of this article.
Additions And Substitutions for Your Perfect Garlic Potatoes
One of the beauties of these oven-baked garlic potatoes is their adaptability. While the core recipe is perfect as is, it also welcomes creative additions and simple substitutions. Don’t fret if you’re missing an ingredient or just want to try a new flavor profile—easy swaps will ensure the delicious garlicky goodness remains intact!
- Salt Varieties: The type of salt you use can subtly impact the final dish. Sea salt, with its larger crystals and natural mineral content, makes all the difference here, adding that perfect burst of flavor and significantly enhancing the crispy texture. If sea salt isn’t available, kosher salt is an excellent alternative due to its similar flake size and pure taste. Try to avoid standard table salt, as its finer grain can make potatoes overly salty if not measured carefully, and it doesn’t offer the same textural “oomph.”
- Herb Alternatives: Not a fan of parsley or simply want to experiment? No problem! Fresh herbs are incredibly versatile. Swap it out for fresh rosemary sprigs, which offer a woody, piney aroma that pairs beautifully with potatoes. Fresh thyme provides an earthy, slightly lemon-peppery note, while basil can add a sweet, aromatic twist. Dried herbs also work well in a pinch, but remember they are more concentrated in flavor; use them sparingly—about 2 teaspoons of dried herbs (like dried Italian seasoning, oregano, or a mix) should do the trick, adding them along with the initial seasoning.
- Potato Varieties: While Yukon Golds are our top pick, feel free to explore other options. Red potatoes, with their thinner skin, roast beautifully and often yield an extra crispy exterior when left unpeeled. Russet potatoes, known for their high starch content, will result in a fluffier, more floury interior, though they might require a bit more attention to get truly crispy skin. For a delightfully unexpected sweetness, sweet potatoes bring a unique caramelized flavor to the table, just as I did with these Garlic Butter Smashed Sweet Potatoes With Parmesan. As for peeling: it’s totally up to your preference! Thin-skinned varieties like Yukon Golds and red potatoes are fantastic with their skins on for added texture and nutrients, while some prefer to peel thicker-skinned russets for a smoother finish.
- Adding a Touch of Richness with Butter: While olive oil creates a wonderfully crisp potato, you can enhance the richness and add another layer of flavor by incorporating a tablespoon or two of melted butter along with the oil, especially towards the end of the roasting process, for that irresistible golden-brown finish.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika can add a delightful warmth and depth of flavor. Onion powder also makes a great addition for an extra savory layer.
How To Make Perfect Garlic Roasted Potatoes: A Step-By-Step Guide
Let’s get cooking! Achieving perfectly crispy, golden, and flavorful garlic roasted potatoes is simpler than you might think. With just a few straightforward steps and a couple of key tips, you’ll have a show-stopping side dish ready to impress. Let’s dive right in and transform those potatoes!

- Prepare Your Oven & Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to a consistent 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness. While the oven heats, lightly spray a large, sturdy baking sheet or tray with cooking oil or line it with parchment paper to ensure your potatoes don’t stick and can crisp up evenly.

- Season the Potatoes to Perfection: In a large bowl, combine your cubed potatoes (ensure they are thoroughly dry for maximum crispness!) with a generous drizzle of olive oil or canola oil. Add the sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced fresh garlic. Toss everything together vigorously until every single potato piece is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Then, arrange the seasoned potatoes on your prepared baking sheet in a single, uncrowded layer. This is vital to prevent steaming and encourage proper browning.

- Roast Until Golden and Crispy: Carefully place the tray into your preheated oven. Roast for 45-55 minutes, making sure to flip the potatoes occasionally (every 15-20 minutes) with a spatula. This ensures all sides get exposed to the heat, guaranteeing even browning and crispness. Continue cooking until the potatoes are beautifully golden brown, deeply crispy on the outside, and fork-tender on the inside.

- Finishing Touches and Serve: Once roasted to your liking, remove the potatoes from the oven. Give them a final taste test and season with a touch more salt and pepper if needed to bring out all the flavors. Immediately sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. The warmth of the potatoes will help the herbs release their aroma. Serve these delightful crispy garlic roasted potatoes straight from the oven while they’re still piping hot for the best experience!
Serving Suggestions for Your Crispy Garlic Potatoes
These crispy garlic roasted potatoes are truly a culinary chameleon, the perfect match for just about anything! Their rich flavor and satisfying texture make them an ideal accompaniment to a wide range of main courses:
- Elegant Dinners: Pair them with a show-stopping Prime Rib Roast, a tender Pork Tenderloin, or even the vibrant flavors of Firecracker Salmon for a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meal.
- Hearty Comfort Food: Craving something more substantial? These potatoes are fantastic alongside classic comfort dishes like Crispy Chicken Parmesan, fall-off-the-bone Oven BBQ Ribs, or a slow-cooked, tender Beef Brisket.
- Breakfast & Brunch: Don’t limit them to dinner! Serve them as an elevated hash brown alternative with scrambled eggs, bacon, or a hearty breakfast sausage for an incredible brunch spread.
Creative Toppings and Customizations
Beyond being a stellar side, these potatoes are a blank canvas for creative toppings. Don’t be afraid to make this dish your own! Load them up with a dollop of cool sour cream, crispy bacon bits, fresh green chives, a sprinkle of melted cheddar or Parmesan cheese, or even savory slow-cooked pulled pork for a truly decadent experience. The possibilities are endless, making them perfect for potlucks or as a substantial appetizer!
Tips for Ultra-Crispy Results
While the recipe is straightforward, a few key techniques can elevate your crispy garlic roasted potatoes from great to absolutely exceptional:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for crispiness. Potatoes need space to breathe and allow moisture to evaporate. If the pan is too full, they will steam instead of roast, leading to soggy results. Use two baking sheets if necessary to ensure a single layer.
- Dry Those Potatoes Thoroughly: After washing, pat your potato cubes completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. A dry surface allows for better browning and a crunchier crust.
- Cut Uniformly: Aim for potato cubes of roughly the same size (1-inch cubes are ideal). This ensures they all cook at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others burn.
- Use High Heat: A consistent oven temperature of 400°F (200°C) is key. The high heat quickly crisps the exterior while allowing the interior to become tender.
- Flip Occasionally: As noted in the instructions, flipping the potatoes every 15-20 minutes exposes all sides to the direct heat of the pan and oven, promoting even browning and a consistent crispy texture.
- Consider Par-Boiling (Optional): For next-level crispiness, some chefs swear by par-boiling the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before roasting. Drain them well, let them steam dry for a few minutes, then rough up their edges slightly by shaking them in a colander before tossing with oil and seasonings. This creates more surface area for crisping.
Recipe FAQ’s
For perfectly crispy and golden roasted potatoes, we recommend roasting at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 45-55 minutes, remembering to flip them occasionally for even browning. This temperature strikes the ideal balance, allowing the potatoes to cook through and become fluffy inside, while simultaneously developing a super crispy exterior. If you need to adjust your cooking time based on other items in the oven, here’s a quick guide:
350°F (175°C): Expect 65-75 minutes of cooking time.
375°F (190°C): Plan for 55-65 minutes.
450°F (230°C): Cooking time will be reduced to 35-45 minutes, but keep a closer eye to prevent burning.
Achieving that irresistible crispiness is all about managing moisture and heat. First, ensure your potato cubes are completely dry before tossing with oil and seasonings. Second, always arrange them in a single layer on the baking tray, leaving a little space between each piece. Overcrowding the pan traps steam, preventing crisping. Finally, tossing them occasionally (every 15-20 minutes) during roasting ensures all sides get a chance to brown and crisp up beautifully.
Whether to peel or not is entirely a matter of personal preference! Leaving the skin on, especially for varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, adds a wonderful rustic texture, extra fiber, and contributes to a great crispy skin. If you prefer a smoother, more uniform finish, or are using varieties like white or russet potatoes with thicker skins, peeling them might be your preferred option. The choice will not significantly impact the overall flavor, so feel free to experiment!
You can certainly do some prep work in advance! You can wash and cube the potatoes, then store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. When ready to roast, drain them thoroughly and pat them completely dry before seasoning and baking. Avoid seasoning them too far in advance, as salt can draw out moisture, making them less crispy.
Store any leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat and bring back some of their crispness, spread them on a baking sheet and reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and re-crisped. Microwaving is an option for heating, but it will make them soft rather than crispy.


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Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Karina
10 minutes
1 hour
30 minutes
1 hour
40 minutes
6
people (as a side)
Ingredients
-
2
pounds
Yukon Gold or red potatoes
cut into 1-inch cubes, thoroughly dried -
2
tablespoons
olive oil
or canola oil -
1
teaspoon
sea salt -
3/4
teaspoon
freshly ground black pepper -
2
tablespoons
fresh garlic
minced (about 8 cloves) -
2
tablespoons
fresh flat-leaf parsley
chopped, for garnish
Instructions
HOW TO ROAST POTATOES
-
Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a large baking sheet or tray with cooking oil spray, or line with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even crisping.
-
Season & Arrange: Place the thoroughly dried, cubed potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, then generously season with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced fresh garlic. Toss well until all potatoes are evenly coated. Spread the seasoned potatoes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This is crucial for achieving crispiness.
-
Roast to Perfection: Roast in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes. Be sure to flip the potatoes occasionally (every 15-20 minutes) with a spatula to ensure all sides brown and crisp up. Continue roasting until they are beautifully golden, deeply crispy on the outside, and tender when pierced with a fork.
-
Finish & Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven. Taste and season with a little extra salt and pepper if desired. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture!
Notes
- For a rustic look and extra crispy potato skins, use small red potatoes and leave the skin on. Ensure they are well scrubbed and thoroughly dried.
- To enhance garlic flavor even further, you can add half of the minced garlic at the beginning of roasting and the remaining half during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning.
Nutrition
Calories:
163
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
28
g
|
Protein:
3
g
|
Fat:
5
g
|
Saturated Fat:
1
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
3
g
|
Sodium:
398
mg
|
Potassium:
658
mg
|
Fiber:
3
g
|
Sugar:
1
g
|
Vitamin A:
117
IU
|
Vitamin C:
32
mg
|
Calcium:
26
mg
|
Iron:
1
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.
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