Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes

Name: Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds baby potatoes; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Bliss

I love making Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes for a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with almost any meal. The crispy, golden-brown exterior contrasts perfectly with the soft, flavorful interior. Using fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme not only elevates the aroma but also adds layers of complex flavors that make each bite truly satisfying. Trust me, after trying this recipe, you'll find it hard to serve potatoes any other way. They are an instant favorite at dinner parties and family gatherings alike.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:15:35.954Z

When I first made Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so incredible. I experimented with different herb combinations, but settled on rosemary and thyme for their classic pairing that brings out the best flavor. The key is to roast them at a high temperature to get that nice crispy finish.

While preparing this dish, I discovered that parboiling the potatoes for just a few minutes before roasting helps achieve that perfect texture. This method allows for a fluffy interior while the exterior gets beautifully crisp. Pair these with your favorite protein for a delightful meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy, golden exterior that holds a tender inside
Aromatic infusion of fresh herbs with every bite
Versatile side dish that complements all your favorite meals

The Importance of Parboiling

Parboiling is a crucial step in achieving the perfect texture for Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes. By boiling the potatoes for just 10 minutes, you're giving them a head start in cooking, which ensures that they will be tender on the inside while still crisping up on the outside during roasting. This technique not only improves the texture but also helps in reducing the overall cooking time, making the final dish quicker to prepare.

Furthermore, parboiling helps to create a rough surface on the potatoes, which is beneficial when roasting. The more surface area that can crisp up, the better. So, when you drain the potatoes, make sure to let them steam for a minute or two before tossing them with the oil and herbs. This will ensure they are not too soggy, allowing for the ideal crispness when they hit the oven.

Choosing Your Herbs Wisely

Using fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme can dramatically elevate the flavor of your Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes. Both herbs have distinct aromatic profiles that complement the earthy flavor of the potatoes. Rosemary brings a woodsy, pine-like flavor, while thyme adds a subtle, floral note. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs as a substitute in a pinch, using about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more potent.

If you're looking to experiment, consider mixing in other herbs like parsley or even oregano. Just be mindful of the quantity, as some herbs can overpower the dish. Starting with half the amount of any new herb allows you to adjust according to your taste preference without overwhelming the dish.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

Once your Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes are done, they can be served immediately, but they can also be made ahead of time for gatherings. After roasting, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, spread them back on a baking sheet and warm them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

These potatoes are versatile and can be served alongside a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a buffet spread for celebrations. Feel free to garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of cheese like Parmesan for an added flavor boost when serving. Having them ready to heat up makes for an easy and elegant side dish on busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes

2 pounds baby potatoes
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse and halve the baby potatoes, placing them into a large pot and covering them with cold water. Bring to a boil and parboil for about 10 minutes. Drain and allow to cool slightly.

Seasoning

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Add it to the parboiled potatoes and mix gently, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Roasting

Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Toss halfway through for even cooking.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes hot, garnished with a sprinkle of additional herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your potatoes are not browning as much as you'd like, ensure you're not overcrowding the baking sheet. Potatoes need space to roast evenly; otherwise, they will steam rather than crisp. Aim for a single layer with enough room between each potato piece for hot air to circulate.

Another common issue is uneven seasoning. Tossing the potatoes thoroughly with the olive oil and herbs is essential, but ensure that every potato piece is evenly coated. If you find some pieces bland after roasting, you can always sprinkle additional salt and herbs right before serving for an extra boost of flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled to serve a larger group. If you’d like to make a double batch for a party, just use an additional baking sheet to give the potatoes ample space. Alternatively, you can roast them in batches if you don’t have enough space in your oven. Keep in mind that roasting times may vary slightly with larger quantities, so start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.

When scaling up, consider varying the herb proportions slightly to maintain the flavor balance. Increasing the garlic can enhance the dish, especially since flavors tend to dilute when you're cooking larger amounts. Just be careful not to overpower the natural potato flavor, as they should still shine through all the delicious ingredients.

Creative Variations

For a delicious twist on the traditional Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, try adding different spices or cheese for added complexity. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne can give a subtle heat and depth to the dish. Alternatively, toss in some grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of roasting for that delightful cheesy crust.

If you want to incorporate more vegetables, consider adding carrots or red onions to the roasting pan, ensuring they have similar cooking times. This will not only enhance the colorful presentation but also create a medley of flavors that complement the potatoes beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, but adjust cooking times as needed since they may vary in size.

→ What should I serve with these potatoes?

They make an excellent side for roasted chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

While it's best fresh, you can parboil the potatoes a few hours early and finish roasting them just before serving.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, but the texture might change slightly upon reheating. It's best to consume within a few days.