Name: Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic for Perfect Crunch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 4 large Yellow Potatoes (cut into large chunks); 2 tablespoons Kosher Salt (plus more to taste); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 4 tablespoons Duck Fat (or olive oil/avocado oil); 1 teaspoon Freshly-Cracked Black Pepper (adjust to taste); 1 whole Head Garlic (trimmed before roasting); 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary (chopped finely); 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (or butter); to taste Flaky Sea Salt (for finishing)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I scrolled through my recipe collection, I stumbled upon a gem that instantly transported me back to cozy family dinners: Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic. These delightful spuds aren’t just another side dish; they’re a crowd-pleasing triumph that strikes the perfect balance between an irresistibly crunchy exterior and a fluffy, tender inside. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this Whole30 compliant recipe has become my go-to for elevating any meal, from weeknight favorites to festive feasts. Plus, they’re gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy them! Whether you’re serving them alongside succulent roast chicken or simply indulging with friends, these potatoes will have you savoring every bite. Ready to transform your next dinner into a delicious memory? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Potatoes So Irresistible?

Crispy, Crunchy Perfection: Each bite of these potatoes features an exterior that’s perfectly golden and crispy, providing a satisfying crunch.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this Whole30 compliant side dish, making it accessible for everyone.
Flavor Explosion: Infused with savory garlic and fragrant rosemary, these potatoes are anything but ordinary.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them with roasted meats, grilled veggies, or even as a stand-alone snack—endless possibilities!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Parboil in advance and finish roasting when you’re ready for an effortless, fresh side dish.
Health Conscious: Gluten-free and compliant with Whole30, these potatoes cater to various dietary needs without compromising on taste.

Crispy Roast Potatoes Ingredients

For the Potatoes

Yellow Potatoes – The starchiness gives these crispy roast potatoes their hearty texture; aim for large chunks for great results.
Kosher Salt – This helps enhance the flavor; remember to use about 2 tablespoons, plus more to taste!
Baking Soda – A secret ingredient that helps achieve an extra crispiness on the surface.

For the Seasoning

Duck Fat – Adds a rich flavor, creating the perfect crispy texture; you can substitute with olive oil or avocado oil if needed.
Freshly-Cracked Black Pepper – A dash of this will elevate the taste; feel free to adjust according to your preferences.
Whole Head Garlic – Infuses the potatoes with a wonderful aromatic flavor; trim the top before roasting for great results.
Fresh Rosemary – Chopped finely, this herb lends a fragrant note to your potatoes; around 2 sprigs will do the trick.

For Roasting

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Helps keep the potatoes moist while roasting and can be swapped with butter for a different flavor.
Flaky Sea Salt – This finishing touch enhances the flavor of the crispy roast potatoes beautifully; sprinkle it right before serving.

These Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic will become your new favorite side dish, perfect for all occasions!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is vital for achieving those perfectly crispy roast potatoes. While your oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a large pot for boiling, a mixing bowl, and a roasting pan to make the cooking process seamless.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and cut the yellow potatoes into large chunks—keeping small ones whole, halving medium ones, and quartering the large ones. This ensures they cook evenly and retain their structure. Once cut, place the potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water to prepare for parboiling.

Step 3: Parboil the Potatoes
Bring the pot of salted water to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Parboil the potatoes for about 10–15 minutes, until they are just tender but not fully cooked. To check, pierce with a fork; it should slide in easily but still have resistance. Once ready, drain the potatoes and allow them to sit briefly.

Step 4: Cool the Potatoes
Transfer the drained potatoes to a bowl filled with cold water. This step stops the cooking process and helps maintain their texture. Let them cool in the cold water for a few minutes, allowing them to firm up slightly while you prepare the seasoning.

Step 5: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes with duck fat (or your selected oil), chopped garlic, fresh rosemary, kosher salt, and a sprinkle of baking soda. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring each potato piece is coated in the flavorful mixture that will elevate your crispy roast potatoes.

Step 6: Arrange for Roasting
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a roasting pan, ensuring they are in a single layer for optimal crispiness. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting. This arrangement is crucial for achieving the golden-brown, crunchy texture you’re aiming for.

Step 7: Roast to Perfection
Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for about 60–75 minutes. Turn them halfway through roasting to promote even browning. Keep an eye out for that delightful golden-brown color and crispy exterior that signifies the potatoes are perfectly done.

Step 8: Final Touches
Once the crispy roast potatoes are golden and enticing, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest briefly. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for added flavor. Serve hot, and revel in the joy of perfectly cooked, crispy roast potatoes with rosemary and garlic!

What to Serve with Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic

Looking to create an unforgettable meal? These roast potatoes are a delightful canvas for a variety of delicious pairings.

Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy chicken infused with herbs complements the crunchy potatoes, creating a comforting and savory plate.
Grilled Lamb Chops: The rich flavor of lamb mingles beautifully with the aromatic rosemary of the potatoes, elevating your dining experience.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: This dish brings a hint of ocean freshness, contrasting the hearty texture of the potatoes for a delectable balance.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Vibrant veggies add color and health to your meal, while their sweetness offsets the potatoes’ savory crunch perfectly.
Creamy Coleslaw: A crispy, tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the potatoes’ warmth, enhancing textures and flavors in each bite.
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine ties together the meal, enhancing the earthy flavors of the potatoes and accompanying dishes.
Lemon Tart: For dessert, a bright lemon tart brings a refreshing end to the meal, cutting through the richness of the potatoes and meats.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with zesty dressing balances the hearty potatoes, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
Soft Dinner Rolls: Fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up any remaining flavors on your plate, allowing you to savor every bite.
Aged Cheddar Cheese: A side of sharp, aged cheddar adds a creamy richness that harmonizes beautifully with the crispy roast potatoes.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to save time while still serving a delightful side dish. You can parboil the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in the refrigerator submerged in cold water to maintain their texture and prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply coat the cooled potatoes in your choice of fat and seasoning, spread them on a roasting pan, and roast until golden and crispy, which usually takes about 60-75 minutes. This way, you’ll have flavorful, restaurant-quality potatoes that feel fresh from the oven, with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Crispy Roast Potatoes

Fridge: Store any leftover Crispy Roast Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents moisture from making them soggy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the potatoes spread out on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag. They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: Reheat leftover potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and regain their crispy texture. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them mushy.
Make-Ahead Options: Prep the potatoes by parboiling, then refrigerate them submerged in cold water for a few hours. When ready to serve, just season and roast for crispy, delicious results!

Expert Tips for Crispy Roast Potatoes

Cut Wisely: Avoid cutting your potatoes too small; larger chunks will hold their shape better and provide that delightful crunch.
Perfect Parboil: Don’t skip parboiling! This step softens the potatoes and increases the overall crispiness during roasting.
Fat Matters: Use duck fat for richness, but olive oil or ghee are great alternatives if you prefer. Stick with your favorite to make these crispy roast potatoes shine.
Even Spacing: When placing cut potatoes on the roasting pan, ensure they aren’t overcrowded. This allows heat to circulate, giving you an even crispy texture.
Monitor Carefully: Keep an eye on the potatoes as they roast; the perfect golden-brown and crispy exterior is key to achieving mouthwatering results.
Make-Ahead Magic: If you’re short on time, parboil potatoes ahead and store them submerged in cold water until you’re ready to roast, making mealtime stress-free!

Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic Variations

Feel free to personalize this recipe and make it truly your own, giving your taste buds a delightful treat!

Dairy-Free: Substitute duck fat with olive oil or avocado oil for a lighter, dairy-free option.
Herb Mix: Add fresh thyme or parsley to the mixture for a fragrant and flavorful twist that elevates each bite.
Sweet Potatoes: Swap yellow potatoes for sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter taste and added nutrition.
Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat that adds depth.
Garlic Lovers: For an even bolder flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, caramelized essence.
Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest over the potatoes before serving for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the dish.
Onion Variety: Toss in some onion wedges along with the potatoes for an extra layer of flavor that mingles beautifully.
Finishing Touch: Try drizzling with balsamic glaze after roasting for a sweet and tangy finishing touch that surprises the palate.

Exploring variations can transform your dish! If you’re interested in more culinary adventures, check out my delightful roasted vegetable medley, or treat yourself to my savory garlic herb butter to complement these crispy potatoes beautifully.

Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using yellow potatoes as their starchiness provides that perfect texture. Look for potatoes that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with dark spots or sprouting eyes, as these can affect the flavor and consistency of your dish.

What is the best way to store leftover crispy roast potatoes?
After enjoying your delicious crispy roast potatoes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method keeps them fresh. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy exterior.

Can I freeze crispy roast potatoes for later use?
Yes, you can! After roasting, allow the potatoes to cool completely. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen potatoes to a resealable bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen until heated through and crispy!

What should I do if my potatoes aren’t crispy?
Should your crispy roast potatoes end up a bit soggy, don’t worry! Here’s what to do: Ensure they were spread out evenly on the roasting pan without overcrowding, as this allows the heat to circulate. If they’re not crispy after the initial roast, you can pop them back in the oven at a higher temperature or for a longer duration—this will help achieve that golden, crunchy finish!

Are these crispy roast potatoes suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! These crispy roast potatoes with rosemary and garlic are Whole30 compliant, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences. If you or your guests have allergies, always double-check the ingredients you use, especially when selecting oils or seasonings, to ensure they align with dietary needs.