Every home cook needs a go-to recipe that can elevate any meal, and Easy Oven-Roasted Potatoes is just that! These golden, crispy bites are packed with flavor and are incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy roast or tossing them into a salad, these potatoes are sure to win over hearts and taste buds alike. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
There are countless reasons why Easy Oven-Roasted Potatoes are a hit at any gathering. First and foremost, they are delicious! The combination of crispiness on the outside and fluffiness on the inside creates a perfect texture that pairs well with virtually any dish. The aromatic herbs and spices provide a burst of flavor that transforms simple potatoes into a gourmet side. Plus, they are effortless to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
What We’re Using
To make these scrumptious Easy Oven-Roasted Potatoes, we’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds small red or gold potatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
These ingredients come together beautifully, creating a dish that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor.
Setup & Equipment
Before we start cooking, let’s gather the necessary equipment:
- Large mixing bowl for tossing the potatoes
- Cutting board and sharp knife for chopping herbs
- Baking sheet (preferably rimmed) for roasting
- Spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
- Oven mitts for safety
Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Stepwise Method: Easy Oven-Roasted Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to achieving those perfectly crispy edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the small red or gold potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut them in half or quarters if they are larger, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved potatoes with the extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, as this will help them roast rather than steam.
Step 5: Roast the Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give them a good toss with a spatula to ensure they brown evenly.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
The potatoes are ready when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and fork-tender on the inside. If they need more time, roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed hot out of the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking for low-carb or keto-friendly alternatives, consider the following options:
- Use cauliflower florets instead of potatoes for a similar texture when roasted.
- Try radishes, which become tender and slightly sweet when cooked.
- Turnips or kohlrabi can also serve as low-carb substitutes, providing a unique flavor.
These alternatives can give you that satisfying roasted side dish experience while keeping carbohydrate counts low.
Cook’s Commentary
The beauty of Easy Oven-Roasted Potatoes lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. For a zingy twist, add a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving. If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Remember, cooking is all about personalizing the flavors to make them your own!
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you’re preparing for a busy week or have guests coming over, you can make the potatoes ahead of time. Simply wash and chop the potatoes, then toss them with the olive oil and seasonings. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just spread them on a baking sheet and roast as directed. This makes it a breeze to serve a delicious side dish without the last-minute rush!
Quick Q&A
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes! While small red or gold potatoes work beautifully, you can use Yukon Gold, fingerling, or even baby potatoes. Each type will bring a different flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Easy Oven-Roasted Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Can I make these potatoes in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Toss the potatoes as usual, then air fry at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
What can I serve with oven-roasted potatoes?
These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a hearty salad. They make an excellent side for chicken, beef, or fish dishes.
Because You Liked This
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Easy Oven-Roasted Potatoes, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a side dish that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of these roasted potatoes, and don’t be surprised when everyone keeps coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!
Easy Oven-Roasted Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds small red or gold potatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1.5 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1.5 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to achieving those perfectly crispy edges.
- Wash the small red or gold potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut them in half or quarters if they are larger, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved potatoes with the extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, as this will help them roast rather than steam.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give them a good toss with a spatula to ensure they brown evenly.
- The potatoes are ready when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and fork-tender on the inside. If they need more time, roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them.
- Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed hot out of the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Baking Sheet
- Spatula
- Oven mitts
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a low-carb option, substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets or radishes.
