Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes

Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes have become an absolute staple in our household, and for incredibly good reason. There’s just something undeniably comforting and universally appealing about perfectly roasted potatoes, especially when they’re infused with the rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter. From weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings, these potatoes have consistently stolen the show, eliciting rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters in my family. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth interior, each bite bursting with garlicky goodness. Honestly, it’s a recipe that’s so simple yet delivers such profound flavor – it’s become my go-to side dish whenever I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a foolproof way to elevate your potato game and create a side dish that everyone will adore, you absolutely have to try these Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes. Trust me, you’ll be making them again and again!

Ingredients

• Potatoes: 2 lbs, Yukon Gold or Russet, for a balance of creamy interior and crispy exterior. Yukon Golds offer a slightly buttery texture naturally, while Russets roast up exceptionally fluffy inside and wonderfully crisp outside. Feel free to experiment with red potatoes for a slightly firmer texture and subtly sweet flavor.
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), unsalted, the foundation of our rich flavor. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. You can use salted butter, but be mindful of adjusting the added salt later.
• Garlic: 6-8 cloves, minced, the star aromatic. Fresh garlic is crucial for that pungent, savory punch. Don’t skimp on the garlic – it’s what makes these potatoes truly special!
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for enhancing crispiness and preventing sticking. Olive oil helps the potatoes brown beautifully and adds a subtle fruity note that complements the garlic and butter.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped, for a fresh, herbaceous finish and vibrant color. Parsley brightens up the dish and adds a touch of freshness. You can substitute with other fresh herbs like chives or thyme if preferred.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon, for an earthy, aromatic depth. Thyme adds a warm, slightly peppery note that pairs wonderfully with garlic and potatoes. Dried thyme is convenient, but fresh thyme sprigs can also be used (about 2-3 sprigs).
• Dried Rosemary: ½ teaspoon, for a piney, fragrant nuance. Rosemary offers a distinctive, slightly resinous aroma that elevates the flavor profile. Use sparingly as rosemary can be quite potent. Fresh rosemary sprigs are also excellent.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste, essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors. Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for its pure taste.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, for a touch of spice and depth. Freshly ground black pepper offers a more robust and nuanced flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy exterior on the potatoes. While the oven preheats, wash and dry your potatoes thoroughly. Peeling is optional; leaving the skin on adds fiber and a slightly rustic texture. If you prefer peeled potatoes, go ahead and peel them. Once washed and dried (and peeled, if desired), cut the potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. Consistent size ensures even cooking.
2. Melt Garlic Butter and Aromatics: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the melted butter. Gently sauté over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, or microwave for 30 seconds, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. The gentle heating infuses the butter with the aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs, creating a flavorful base for the potatoes.
3. Toss Potatoes with Flavorful Mixture: In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This step helps the potatoes crisp up and season them from the start. Pour the melted garlic butter mixture over the potatoes. Toss again to thoroughly coat every potato piece with the garlic butter and herb mixture. Make sure each potato is glistening with the flavorful butter.
4. Arrange Potatoes on Baking Sheet: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. For best crisping results, avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, leading to less crispiness. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure a single layer. Using parchment paper or foil to line the baking sheet is optional but recommended for easier cleanup.
5. Roast to Golden Perfection: Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender on the inside and golden brown and crispy on the outside. Halfway through the roasting time, about 15-20 minutes in, flip the potatoes with a spatula to ensure even browning on all sides. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning, especially if your oven tends to run hot. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your potato cubes.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the potatoes are beautifully roasted and tender, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Toss gently to distribute the parsley. Serve hot and enjoy these incredibly flavorful Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes as a delightful side dish.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximate, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 280 kcal, providing a satisfying energy source for your meal. These roasted potatoes offer a good amount of calories, primarily from carbohydrates and fats, making them a hearty side dish.
• Fat: 15g, including healthy fats from olive oil and butter, contributing to satiety and flavor. While the fat content is moderate, it’s important to note that it includes beneficial fats from olive oil and butter, which are essential for flavor and texture.
• Carbohydrates: 35g, primarily from potatoes, offering sustained energy. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy and dietary fiber.
• Protein: 4g, a modest amount of protein contributing to overall nutrition. While not a primary protein source, potatoes do contribute a small amount of protein to your diet.
• Vitamin C: 20% DV, a good source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant vital for immune function. Potatoes, especially with their skins, are a surprisingly good source of Vitamin C, which is important for immune health and collagen production.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes. This recipe is quick to get started! Most of the prep time involves washing, chopping potatoes, and mincing garlic.
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes. Roasting time is mostly hands-off, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal.
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes. From start to finish, you can have these delicious roasted potatoes on the table in under an hour, making them perfect for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes

These versatile Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes are fantastic alongside a variety of main courses and can be customized with different toppings for extra flair. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Main Course Companions:
  • Roasted Chicken or Grilled Steak: A classic pairing! The richness of the potatoes complements the savory flavors of roasted chicken or grilled steak beautifully.
  • Pan-Seared Salmon or Baked Cod: For a lighter yet equally delicious meal, serve these potatoes with flaky pan-seared salmon or baked cod. The garlic butter flavor enhances the seafood without overpowering it.
  • Pork Tenderloin or Chops: Garlic and butter are natural partners with pork. Roasted potatoes make a satisfying side for pork tenderloin or chops.
  • Vegetarian Mains: Serve alongside lentil loaf, mushroom Wellington, or a hearty vegetable and bean stew for a complete and flavorful vegetarian meal. The potatoes add substance and deliciousness to plant-based dishes.
• Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Potatoes:
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes right out of the oven for a cheesy, savory touch.
  • Fresh Herbs: Beyond parsley, try chopped chives, dill, or oregano for different herbaceous notes.
  • Crumbled Bacon: Crispy crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that’s irresistible with garlic butter potatoes.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast to the crispy potatoes.
  • Sautéed Onions or Shallots: Add sweetness and depth by topping with caramelized onions or sautéed shallots.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the potatoes before serving.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness of the butter.

Additional Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes

Want to take your Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes to the next level? Here are 8 helpful tips for achieving potato perfection every time:

1. Choose the Right Potato Variety: While Yukon Golds and Russets are excellent choices, experiment with other potato types like red potatoes, fingerling potatoes, or even sweet potatoes for variations in texture and flavor. Each type will roast slightly differently.
2. Uniform Potato Size is Key: Cutting your potatoes into uniformly sized pieces is crucial for even cooking. This ensures that all potatoes cook through at the same rate and become tender at the same time. Aim for roughly 1-inch cubes.
3. Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: While butter is the star flavor, olive oil plays a vital role in crisping. It helps the potatoes brown beautifully and prevents them from sticking to the baking sheet.
4. Roast at High Heat: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) is essential for achieving crispy exteriors. Higher heat encourages browning and crisping. Make sure your oven is properly preheated before adding the potatoes.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your potatoes space to breathe! Overcrowding the baking sheet will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, resulting in less crispiness. Use two baking sheets if necessary to ensure a single layer.
6. Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the potatoes halfway through the roasting time promotes even browning and crisping on all sides. It ensures that all sides get direct heat exposure.
7. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the potatoes and garlic butter. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried herbs provide a good base flavor, fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary added at the end elevate the dish with vibrant aroma and freshness. Consider adding a mix of fresh and dried herbs for layered flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes

Got questions about making the best Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes? Here are answers to some common queries:

Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: Yes, you can use salted butter. However, be mindful of the salt content and reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty potatoes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Q2: Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
A: You can prep the potatoes by washing and cutting them a few hours in advance. Store them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. However, it’s best to roast them right before serving for optimal crispiness. Roasting ahead of time and reheating can make them less crispy.

Q3: What’s the best way to reheat leftover roasted potatoes?
A: To reheat and maintain some crispiness, spread the leftover potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy again. Microwaving will soften them and lose crispness.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to roast with the potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Vegetables like onions, bell peppers, broccoli florets, or carrots roast well alongside potatoes. Adjust roasting time as needed depending on the vegetables you add. Harder vegetables like carrots will need longer cooking times than softer ones like broccoli.

Q5: I don’t have fresh parsley; can I use dried parsley?
A: Yes, you can use dried parsley. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley as a substitute for ¼ cup of fresh parsley. Add it along with the other dried herbs to the melted butter mixture. Fresh parsley is preferred for its brighter flavor and color as a garnish, but dried parsley will still add flavor.

Q6: My potatoes are not getting crispy enough; what am I doing wrong?
A: Several factors can affect crispiness. Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C). Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Make sure the potatoes are tossed with olive oil in addition to butter. Flipping them halfway through roasting is also crucial. You can also try roasting them at a slightly higher temperature for the last 10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Q7: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A: While fresh garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder. However, fresh garlic provides a much more pungent and nuanced garlic flavor that is central to this recipe.

Q8: Can I make these potatoes vegan?
A: Yes, you can easily make these potatoes vegan by substituting vegan butter for regular butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based. Vegan butter works well in roasting and provides a similar richness.

Enjoy making and savoring these delicious Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes! They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

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