Roasted red potatoes are a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make side dish that can complement a wide range of main courses. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick addition to your weeknight meal, this recipe will guide you to perfect roasted red potatoes every time. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and tips for achieving crispy, golden-brown potatoes with a tender interior.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of small red potatoes
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving the perfect crispiness on the outside of the potatoes.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the red potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skins on adds texture and flavor. Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each, ensuring they cook evenly.
3. Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut potatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, dried rosemary, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. For the best results, use a rimmed baking sheet and avoid overcrowding the potatoes. This allows for even roasting and prevents them from steaming.
5. Roast the Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 30-35 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, use a spatula to flip the potatoes to ensure they roast evenly on all sides. The potatoes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the roasted potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, adding a burst of color and freshness. Serve the roasted red potatoes hot alongside your favorite main dishes.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Red Potatoes
1. Use Small Red Potatoes
Smaller red potatoes are ideal for roasting because they have a lower starch content, which helps them become crispy on the outside while remaining creamy inside.
2. Uniform Sizing
Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
3. High Heat
Roasting at a high temperature, like 400°F (200°C), is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior. If the temperature is too low, the potatoes may turn out soft and mushy.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Overcrowding the baking sheet traps steam and prevents the potatoes from roasting properly. If necessary, use two baking sheets to give the potatoes enough space.
5. Flip Halfway Through
Flipping the potatoes halfway through the roasting process ensures that all sides get evenly crispy and golden brown.
Variations
1. Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of roasting. The cheese will melt and form a delicious crust.
2. Spicy Roasted Potatoes
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
3. Lemon Herb Potatoes
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the roasted potatoes and sprinkle with additional fresh herbs like dill or basil for a bright, tangy flavor.
4. Bacon Roasted Potatoes
Add crumbled cooked bacon and chopped green onions to the roasted potatoes for a savory, hearty variation.
Conclusion
Roasted red potatoes are a simple yet delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow these steps and tips, and you’ll have a batch of perfectly roasted red potatoes that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Enjoy!