These garlic roasted potatoes are the perfect balance of crisp edges and fluffy centers, making them an irresistible side dish for any meal.
Packed with fiber, potassium, and heart-healthy fats from olive oil, they’re both satisfying and nourishing.
With minimal prep time and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is quick, versatile, and ideal for everyday cooking—whether you’re serving them with dinner or prepping ahead for the week.
Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Wooden Spoon
- 1 Sharp knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Baking sheet (cookie sheet)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Ingredients
- 24 ounces potatoes washed and cut into 1-inch cubes (skins on)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or preferred cooking oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic chopped into small pieces
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme leaves removed
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).A properly preheated oven ensures your potatoes start crisping immediately instead of steaming, which is the key to that irresistible golden-brown exterior. While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking, promotes even browning, and makes cleanup effortless.
- Wash and Cut the Potatoes: Rinse the potatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove dirt and excess starch. Using a clean kitchen towel, pat them dry—dry potatoes crisp better in the oven. Next, place the potatoes on a cutting board and slice them into 1-inch cubes. Keeping the skins on not only saves time but also adds fiber and creates a deliciously crispy texture once roasted. Try to cut the cubes evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Chop the Garlic and Herbs: Peel and roughly chop 3 cloves of garlic into small but not tiny pieces—this helps prevent them from burning in the oven while still releasing a bold garlicky aroma. Remove the leaves from the fresh thyme sprigs and set them aside. Fresh herbs bring brightness and balance to the richness of the oil and butter.
- Season the Potatoes: Place the potato cubes into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil, making sure to coat each piece lightly but thoroughly. Add the sea salt, black pepper, and the chopped garlic. Hold the bowl firmly with one hand and use your other hand to gently toss the potatoes until everything is evenly distributed. For extra coverage, you can also use a wooden spoon to mix. Well-seasoned potatoes are the foundation of a flavorful roast.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Pour the seasoned potato mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Spread the potatoes out into a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Overcrowding causes potatoes to steam instead of roast, resulting in a softer texture rather than the desired crispiness. Sprinkle the thyme leaves evenly across the potatoes, letting them cling to the oiled surfaces.
- Add the Melted Butter: Drizzle the melted vegan butter evenly over the potatoes on the tray. This final touch infuses a rich, buttery flavor and helps the edges turn beautifully golden as they roast. Don’t skip this step—it elevates the dish from simple roasted potatoes to something truly indulgent.
- Roast Until Crispy and Golden: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, depending on your oven and potato size. About halfway through the cooking time (around the 15-minute mark), carefully remove the tray, use a spatula to gently flip the potatoes, and return them to the oven. This step ensures even cooking on all sides, giving you crispy edges and tender centers.
- Check for Doneness: After 30 minutes, test the potatoes by piercing one with a fork. It should slide in easily, and the outside should look golden-brown and crisp. If they need more color, roast for an additional 3–5 minutes. Keep a close eye on the garlic pieces—if they look deeply browned, the potatoes are likely ready.
- Serve and Enjoy Immediately: Once perfectly roasted, remove the tray from the oven and let the potatoes cool slightly for 2–3 minutes. Transfer them to a serving bowl or platter. These potatoes are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven, when their texture is at its peak—crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Garnish with extra thyme or a sprinkle of sea salt if desired. Serve alongside your favorite main dish, and enjoy!
Notes
- Potato Variety Matters: Yukon gold and russet potatoes give the best balance of fluffiness and crispiness, but you can use almost any type—including red potatoes or even sweet potatoes.
- Don’t Skip the Skins: Leaving the skins on adds extra fiber and makes the edges extra crunchy.
- Garlic Size Is Important: Chop garlic into small but not tiny pieces. Too small, and it burns; too big, and it won’t infuse evenly.
- Butter Finishes the Flavor: That drizzle of melted butter at the end ties everything together and gives a richer, indulgent flavor.
- Get Creative with Seasoning: Add smoked paprika, rosemary, oregano, or even a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan for fun variations.
Chef’s Secrets for Best Results
The secret to restaurant-quality roasted potatoes is high heat and proper spacing.
A preheated oven at 450°F ensures the potatoes crisp up immediately rather than steaming.
Always spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cube.
This small detail is what makes the difference between crispy potatoes and soggy ones.
Another trick is drying your potatoes well after washing—moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Finally, don’t be shy with the oil.
A light but even coating of olive oil ensures every edge crisps while keeping the centers tender and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
These garlic roasted potatoes are endlessly versatile and complement almost any meal.
Serve them alongside a protein such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or plant-based options like marinated tofu or veggie burgers.
They also make a delicious breakfast side, paired with scrambled eggs or a hearty omelet.
For a fresh balance, consider adding a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables on the side.
If you’re entertaining, these potatoes make an easy crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or festive holiday tables.
A final sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of garlic aioli can elevate them to something truly special.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but leftovers store beautifully for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible, since it softens the potatoes and removes their crispiness.
Instead, reheat them in a 400°F oven for 8–10 minutes or pop them into an air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crisp again.
Freezing is not recommended, as potatoes tend to become mealy and lose their appealing texture once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop and season the potatoes a few hours before cooking.
Keep them covered in the fridge, then roast them fresh just before serving for the best texture.
2. What type of potato works best?
Yukon gold and russet potatoes are the top choices. Yukon golds give a creamy interior, while russets crisp beautifully on the outside.
Sweet potatoes also work if you want a naturally sweeter variation.
3. Can I add more seasonings?
Absolutely! Try smoked paprika for a smoky kick, rosemary for a classic pairing, or chili flakes for some heat.
A sprinkle of vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast also adds a deliciously cheesy finish.
4. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Chop the garlic into small but not tiny pieces, and ensure it’s coated in oil before roasting.
This way, it toasts gently without turning bitter. You can also add it halfway through baking for extra protection.
5. What can I serve these potatoes with?
They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, hearty stews, or even as a base for a breakfast hash.
Their versatility makes them a staple side dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
