Introduction
Few side dishes can compete with the simple perfection of crispy roasted red potatoes. With their naturally creamy texture inside and their ability to crisp up beautifully in the oven, red potatoes are a household favorite. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roasted until golden, they’re the kind of side that disappears quickly from the dinner table.
Whether you’re pairing them with roast chicken, steak, fish, or enjoying them with a salad, these crispy roasted red potatoes strike the right balance between cozy comfort food and an easy, healthy side. Even better? They’re budget-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and require minimal prep.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips, variations, serving ideas, and answers to your most common questions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Outside, Fluffy Inside – The high-heat roasting gives you golden, crunchy edges with soft, tender centers.
- Simple Ingredients – You likely already have everything in your pantry.
- Healthy & Budget-Friendly – Potatoes are naturally gluten-free and inexpensive.
- Crowd Pleaser – From kids to adults, everyone loves roasted potatoes.
- Versatile – Great as a side dish, a snack, or even part of a brunch spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crispy Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900 g) red potatoes, washed and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for richness)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or thyme/oregano)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for color and subtle smokiness)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra sprinkle of sea salt or grated Parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is the key to crispy edges.
Step 2 – Prep the Potatoes
Wash and scrub red potatoes thoroughly (no need to peel, the skins help crisping). Cut them into uniform bite-sized chunks for even roasting.
Step 3 – Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, and paprika. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Step 4 – Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the potatoes out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding use two sheets if needed. Overlapping potatoes steam instead of crisp.
Step 5 – Roast
Roast for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Potatoes are done when golden brown with crispy edges and fork-tender centers.
Step 6 – Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or Parmesan for a finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Crispy Roasted Red Potatoes
- Soak in Cold Water: For extra crispiness, soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry completely before roasting.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread potatoes in a single layer with space in between for air circulation.
- High Heat is Key: Roasting at 425°F ensures crisp edges.
- Use Parchment Paper or Non-Stick Sheet: Helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning.
- Flip Once: Turn halfway through roasting for even crisping.
Variations to Try
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – Toss with ½ cup grated Parmesan before roasting.
- Spicy Roasted Potatoes – Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or chili powder.
- Herb Lovers – Try thyme, dill, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
- Lemon Herb Potatoes – Add fresh lemon juice and zest after roasting.
- Breakfast Hash Style – Toss with sautéed onions, peppers, and eggs for brunch.
Serving Suggestions
- With Meat – Perfect with roast chicken, steak, lamb, or baked fish.
- With Eggs – Serve alongside scrambled eggs or omelets for brunch.
- As a Snack – Dip into ranch, aioli, or ketchup.
- With Salads – Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Re-crisp in a 400°F oven for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which makes them soft.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
FAQs About Crispy Roasted Red Potatoes
1. Can I use other potatoes instead of red?
Yes! Yukon Golds or Russet potatoes also work. Red potatoes have thinner skins and a creamier texture inside.
2. How do I make them extra crispy?
Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry well. High oven heat (425°F) and enough space on the pan are also key.
3. Can I roast potatoes without oil?
Yes, but they won’t crisp as much. For oil-free, try tossing with vegetable broth and baking on parchment.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Roast fully, store, and reheat in a hot oven to bring back crispiness.
5. What dipping sauces go best with crispy potatoes?
Ranch, garlic aioli, sour cream, ketchup, or spicy mayo are all great options.
Conclusion
Crispy roasted red potatoes are the ultimate easy, versatile, and crowd-pleasing side dish. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you get golden, crunchy potatoes with fluffy centers that pair with almost anything. From weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, this recipe is a guaranteed hit at the table.
