Description
1 ½ lbs baby potatoes, halved
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (optional for extra crispiness)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Add the halved baby potatoes to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the garlic herb butter mixture.
Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. If you want extra crispy potatoes, drizzle a little olive oil over the top.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and tender when pierced with a fork.
Serve hot and enjoy these flavorful garlic herb butter roasted baby potatoes!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 200 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect roasted potatoes every time.
- Prep the Potatoes: After halving the baby potatoes, pat them thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel. This removes excess starch and moisture, which is key for achieving a crispy exterior.
- Infuse the Butter: For deeper flavor, gently warm the butter with the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme in a small saucepan for 2-3 minutes. Let it cool slightly before using. This step blooms the herbs and infuses the butter with garlic essence.
- Coat Thoroughly: In your large bowl, toss the dried potatoes with the infused butter mixture. Ensure every cut side gets coated, as this is where the best browning and flavor will develop.
- Arrange for Success: When spreading the potatoes on the baking sheet, place them cut-side down in a single layer. Do not overcrowd. This direct contact with the hot pan creates a beautifully golden, crispy crust.
- Roast to Perfection: Roast undisturbed for 25-30 minutes. Avoid stirring during cooking to let the crust form. They are done when the bottoms are deeply golden and the tops are tender.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile potatoes pair wonderfully with numerous mains. Serve alongside a juicy herb-roasted chicken, a pan-seared steak, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian feast, they complement a creamy mushroom risotto or a hearty lentil loaf beautifully. Garnish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and extra fresh herbs right before serving.
How-to Summary
Halve and dry baby potatoes, then toss with a melted butter, garlic, and herb mixture. Arrange cut-side down on a parchment-lined sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, but use only one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more potent. For this recipe, use 1 teaspoon each of dried rosemary and thyme.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a single layer on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave will make them soft.
Can I use other types of potatoes? Absolutely. Yukon Gold or halved red potatoes work well. Adjust cooking time slightly if the pieces are larger than baby potato halves.
Why are my potatoes not getting crispy? The most common reasons are overcrowding the pan (which steams them) or not drying them thoroughly before coating. Ensure they are in a single layer with space between each piece.
Is olive oil a good substitute for butter? Olive oil will work and create a crispier texture, but you will lose the rich, savory flavor that the butter provides. For a dairy-free version, a high-heat oil like avocado oil is a good choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Drying Step: Adding wet potatoes to the butter will prevent proper adhesion and lead to steaming.
- Overcrowding the Pan: This is the primary cause of soggy roasted potatoes. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Stirring During Roasting: Let the potatoes sit undisturbed to form a proper crust on the cut side.
- Using Cold Butter: Melted butter is essential for an even coating. Cold butter will clump and not distribute the herbs evenly.
Conclusion
These Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Baby Potatoes are a simple yet impressive side dish that transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The crispy, buttery, and herb-infused potatoes are sure to become a regular favorite at your dinner table.
