Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes – The Ultimate Side Dish for Every Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These crispy potatoes strike the ideal balance between crunchy edges and fluffy centers. The garlic butter coating adds a luxurious, savory flavor, while herbs bring freshness to each bite. They’re easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are endlessly versatile. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on their own, these potatoes promise to satisfy every craving.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Baby potatoes – Small and tender, they roast beautifully while maintaining a creamy center. You can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes cut into halves or quarters.

Butter – The key to that irresistible golden crispness and rich flavor. Melt it gently to avoid burning the milk solids.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds an aromatic, savory kick that infuses every bite. You can also use garlic powder if you prefer a milder taste.

Olive oil – Helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully and prevents the butter from burning at high heat.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning; use freshly cracked pepper for an added touch of warmth.

Parsley – Adds a bright, herby finish that cuts through the richness of the butter.

Paprika – Optional but adds a subtle smokiness and enhances the color of the potatoes.

Parmesan cheese – For a cheesy, crispy layer that elevates the dish to the next level.

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Boil them in salted water for 5–6 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Make the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to mix.
4. Coat the potatoes: Toss the parboiled potatoes in the garlic butter mixture until evenly coated. Spread them on the baking sheet, cut side down, for maximum crispiness.
5. Bake: Roast for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even browning.
6. Add finishing touches: Once done, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the hot potatoes. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soft.

Variations and Customizations

Cheesy Garlic Potatoes – Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella before baking for a gooey, cheesy twist.

Herb-Infused Potatoes – Mix in rosemary, thyme, or oregano with the garlic butter for a fragrant, earthy flavor.

Spicy Kick – Sprinkle chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the butter mixture for a touch of heat.

Lemon Butter Potatoes – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest just before serving for a bright, tangy note.

Honey Garlic Version – Drizzle a little honey over the potatoes before baking for a sweet and savory combination.

Smoky Paprika Roast – Double the paprika and add a hint of smoked salt for a bolder, deeper flavor.

Parmesan Crust – Press grated Parmesan onto the cut side of the potatoes before roasting to create a crisp, cheesy crust.

Air Fryer Option – Cook the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through for evenly crisped results.

Garlic Herb Buttered New Potatoes – Skip roasting and simply toss boiled new potatoes in melted garlic butter and herbs for a softer, buttery version.

Bacon-Loaded Potatoes – Add crispy bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream for a heartier, indulgent twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby ones?

Yes, just cut them into smaller, even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

2. Should I peel the potatoes?

Peeling isn’t necessary—leaving the skin on adds texture and extra crispiness.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

You can parboil the potatoes ahead, refrigerate them, and roast just before serving.

4. What type of butter works best?

Unsalted butter is ideal so you can control the salt level, but salted works too if adjusted.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute butter with vegan butter or extra olive oil.

6. Why are my potatoes not crispy?

Ensure the potatoes are thoroughly dried before roasting and spread them in a single layer.

7. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can replace 2 cloves of fresh garlic.

8. What can I serve these with?

They go wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, roasted fish, or even eggs for brunch.

9. Can I store the garlic butter mixture?

Yes, refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to a week and melt before using.

10. How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?

Roast them cut side down and avoid overcrowding the pan—space helps air circulate for a crispier texture.

Conclusion

Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes are the kind of dish that instantly elevates any meal. With their buttery crunch, aromatic garlic, and tender center, they’re both comforting and irresistibly delicious. Whether served at a family dinner, holiday feast, or casual weekend meal, these potatoes always steal the spotlight. Once you make them, you’ll understand why they’re a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

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