Perfectly Crispy Roasted Potatoes

This **Crispy Roasted Potatoes** recipe is an absolute favorite, transforming simple potatoes into a culinary masterpiece. Each bite offers a delightful contrast: a perfectly crispy exterior giving way to a wonderfully fluffy interior, all achieved with just a few simple ingredients and roasting techniques.

From the Kitchen of Chelsea Lords

Contents

Toggle

Perfectly Crispy Roasted Potatoes Every Time!

My love affair with potatoes runs deep. Whether they’re mashed, smashed, or baked into a comforting casserole, potatoes are a staple in my kitchen. While I adore my creamy mashed potatoes, my irresistibly crispy smashed potatoes, and even my hearty twice-baked potato casserole, there’s something uniquely satisfying about a perfectly roasted potato. My roasted sweet potatoes are incredibly popular on my site, which only fueled my mission to perfect a classic savory roasted potato recipe that stands just as tall. And after countless tests, I can confidently say: these roasted potatoes are the absolute best!

This recipe consistently delivers that coveted crispy exterior and tender, fluffy interior – a texture reminiscent of your favorite fries, but with the wholesome goodness of a home-cooked side. Beyond their incredible taste, these roasted potatoes are incredibly economical to make, wonderfully filling, and exceptionally versatile, pairing beautifully with virtually any main course.

Essential Ingredients for Flawless Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Crafting the perfect roasted potatoes starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy perfection:

• Baby Gold Potatoes: These small, thin-skinned potatoes are the star of this recipe. Their naturally creamy, buttery flesh becomes incredibly tender when roasted, while their delicate skin crisps up beautifully without needing to be peeled. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes or other small, waxy varieties like red potatoes, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. Aim for pieces roughly 1 to 1.5 inches after cutting.
• Olive Oil: A generous drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil is vital. It’s not just for preventing sticking; olive oil acts as a flavor carrier and is key to achieving that desirable golden-brown color and crispy texture. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for roasting. Avocado oil is another excellent alternative.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These pantry staples infuse the potatoes with a savory, aromatic depth that complements their natural flavor. They provide a foundational savory note without the risk of burning that fresh garlic can sometimes pose during high-heat roasting.
• Paprika: Regular paprika adds a beautiful reddish hue and a mild, peppery flavor. For a warmer, slightly smoky undertone, opt for smoked paprika. Both options enhance the overall savory profile and visual appeal of the dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: These basic seasonings are absolutely essential for elevating the flavors. Always add to taste, and remember that proper seasoning is what transforms a good dish into a great one. Don’t be shy!
• Fresh Thyme (Optional): A few sprigs of fresh thyme add an aromatic, herbaceous freshness that brightens the entire dish. Rosemary or oregano are excellent substitutes if you prefer, or if you don’t have thyme on hand.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Achieve Perfectly Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Achieving perfectly crispy roasted potatoes is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for golden, tender results every single time:

1. Preheat Your Oven to Perfection: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). This high temperature is crucial for the potatoes to crisp up effectively. Line a large, heavy-duty sheet pan with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and aids in crispiness by allowing for better air circulation and easier release.
2. Prepare and Uniformly Cut Potatoes: Wash your baby gold potatoes thoroughly. There’s no need to peel them! Cut the potatoes into uniform halves or quarters, aiming for pieces approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Consistency in size ensures that all potatoes cook at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others are overdone.
3. Season and Spread for Optimal Roasting: Place the cut potatoes directly onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together vigorously using your hands or a spatula until every potato piece is thoroughly coated in oil and spices. Spread the seasoned potatoes into a single, even layer across the sheet pan, making sure they do not overlap. Overcrowding the pan will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, leading to a soggy texture. If using fresh thyme sprigs, distribute them evenly among the potatoes.
4. The Initial Bake and First Toss: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this initial baking period, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Using a sturdy metal spatula, toss the potatoes to ensure even browning and crisping on all sides. You’ll notice they’ll already be starting to develop a golden crust.
5. Final Bake for Ultimate Crispiness: Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown, deeply caramelized, and tender when pierced with a fork. For an extra layer of crispiness, arrange the potatoes so that their cut sides are facing down on the baking sheet during this final baking phase. This maximizes contact with the hot surface, enhancing the crunch.
6. Garnish and Serve Immediately: Once perfectly roasted, remove the potatoes from the oven. Toss them one last time on the hot pan. Allow them to cool slightly before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, extra fresh thyme leaves, or a generous sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese (a microplane works wonders for this!). Serve these delightful crispy roasted potatoes hot and enjoy their irresistible flavor and texture.

Expert Tips for the Crispiest Roasted Potatoes Ever

Elevate your roasted potato game with these crucial tips for guaranteed success:

• Master Uniform Cutting: This is perhaps the most vital tip. Ensure all your potato pieces are cut into similar sizes, ideally between 1 and 1.5 inches. This consistency guarantees even roasting, meaning every single potato will be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside simultaneously. There’s nothing worse than biting into a hard, undercooked potato!
• Harness High Oven Heat: Roasting at a high temperature (400°F/205°C) is key for developing that beautiful caramelization and a super crispy exterior. If your oven tends to run hot or cold, consider testing its temperature with an oven thermometer for optimal results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your potatoes room to breathe! Spreading them in a single layer on a large baking sheet prevents them from steaming. When potatoes are too close together, they release moisture, creating steam that makes them soft and soggy instead of crispy. Use two pans if necessary to ensure ample space.
• The “Potato Tells You When” Test: Here’s a clever trick: your potatoes will tell you when it’s time to flip! When one side has achieved perfect browning and crispiness, the potatoes will naturally release from the pan and be easy to turn with a spatula. If they stick and resist lifting, it’s a clear signal they need a little more time to continue baking and develop their crust. Patience is rewarded!
• Enhance with Finely Grated Parmesan: For an added layer of savory, salty flavor, finely grate Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes just after they come out of the oven. Use a microplane or a very fine grater for optimal melting and distribution.
• Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper. It not only prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze, but it also helps in achieving a crispier potato by promoting even heat distribution and allowing the potatoes to brown without excess moisture buildup.

Storing and Reheating Your Delicious Leftovers

While crispy roasted potatoes are undeniably best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven, you can certainly save any leftovers to savor later. Here’s how:

Storing: Allow your roasted potatoes to cool completely before storing them. Transfer the cooled potatoes to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to five days.

Reheating for Crispiness: To bring your leftover roasted potatoes back to their crispy glory, avoid the microwave. The microwave will only make them soggy. Instead, spread the potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with a tiny bit of fresh oil if they look dry, and bake at 450°F (230°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and the edges have re-crisped.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Serve Crispy Roasted Potatoes With: Versatile Pairings

One of the best qualities of these crispy roasted potatoes is their incredible versatility. They make a fantastic side dish for almost any meal. Here are some pairing suggestions to inspire your next culinary creation:

• Hearty Meats: The savory, crispy potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to a wide range of meats. Try them alongside perfectly baked chicken breasts or thighs, a juicy grilled steak, flavorful pork chops, or even tender lamb.
• Fresh Seafood: Their mild, earthy flavor pairs beautifully with seafood. Serve them with pan-seared salmon, succulent blackened shrimp, or a light, flaky white fish for a balanced and satisfying meal.
• Crisp Salads: For a lighter but still satisfying meal, complement your crispy potatoes with a fresh salad. A vibrant garden salad, a classic Caesar salad, or a zesty Italian salad provide a refreshing contrast to the rich potatoes.
• Breakfast & Brunch Favorites: Potatoes and eggs are a match made in heaven! These roasted beauties are an ideal addition to your breakfast or brunch spread, excellent alongside scrambled eggs, omelets, or a classic frittata.
• Casual Burgers and Sandwiches: Move over, regular fries! Crispy roasted potatoes are a healthier and equally delicious alternative to serve with your favorite chicken burgers or hearty turkey bacon avocado sandwiches.
• Comforting Soups and Stews: When you’re craving ultimate comfort, pair these roasted potatoes with a hearty bowl of soup or a rich chicken stew. Their texture and flavor add another layer of satisfaction to these warming dishes.

Crispy Roasted Potatoes Recipe

This easy Roasted Potatoes Recipe coats bite-size potatoes in oil and a simple spice mix, then bakes them until the outsides are golden and crisp while the centers stay soft and fluffy. A perfect side dish for any occasion!

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
1 hour

Total Time:
1 hour 15 minutes

Servings:
6 as a side

Equipment

• Large sheet pan (15″ x 21″) and metal spatula
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby gold potatoes, unpeeled, cut into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch pieces (halves or quarters, approximately 5-1/2 cups once cut)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1-1/2 teaspoons paprika (smoked if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
• Finely chopped fresh parsley or fresh thyme leaves or finely grated Parmesan, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. Ensure potatoes are cut into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch pieces (halves or quarters).
2. Add cut potatoes to the pan. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well to evenly coat the potatoes. Spread them in a single, even layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. If using thyme sprigs, arrange them evenly among the potatoes.
3. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and toss the potatoes with a metal spatula. If they stick, they need more cooking time. Return to the oven for another 25–30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown, deeply crispy, and tender when pierced with a fork. For extra crispiness, arrange the potatoes cut-side down after the toss.
4. Once done, remove from oven and toss again. Allow to cool slightly before adding fresh herbs or grating Parmesan cheese on top (using a fine grater if using Parmesan). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Note 1 – Potato Selection: While I prefer baby gold potatoes for their buttery texture and thin skin, any small potato variety with tender skin will work well. The key is to cut all potatoes to approximately the same size for uniform cooking.

Note 2 – The Stick Test for Doneness: If the potatoes stick to the pan and don’t flip easily during baking, it means they need more cooking time. They will naturally release more easily once they have formed a sufficient crust and are adequately cooked.

Storage: These roasted potatoes are truly at their best when enjoyed hot and fresh. Should you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 197kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 10mg | Potassium: 648mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 249IU | Vitamin C: 30mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only.