When I think of the perfect side dish, crispy roasted baby potatoes come to mind. These little gems are versatile enough to pair with virtually anything.
Serve them alongside a juicy grilled chicken breast, warm them up next to a crisp salad, or make them the centerpiece of your next brunch. Seriously, it doesn’t get any better.
Let’s dive deeper into what makes these potatoes a staple in any kitchen!
What is Crispy Roasted Baby Potatoes?
Simply put, crispy roasted baby potatoes are small, tender potatoes that get a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside after baking. They absorb seasonings beautifully, giving each bite an irresistible burst of flavor.
These potatoes are a celebration of simplicity. The basic recipe involves three main ingredients: baby potatoes, olive oil, and seasoning. Yet, what you create is far greater than the sum of its parts.
Why This Recipe Works
Several elements contribute to the success of these crispy roasted baby potatoes. Here are four key reasons you’ll want to keep this recipe handy:
The Right Potato Choices Matter
Using baby potatoes ensures delicate textures and a naturally sweet flavor. Varieties like Yukon Gold, red potatoes, and colorful mixes not only provide visual appeal but have varying textures that add interest when cooked.
The thin skin of baby potatoes crisps up perfectly when roasted, creating that delightful contrast we seek in a side dish.
Olive Oil Is Essential
A good drizzle of high-quality cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil works wonders. It not only helps in achieving that crispy exterior but also adds a rich, slightly fruity flavor that’s pleasing to the palate. Olive oil also promotes a golden color during roasting, making the potatoes visually appealing.
Seasoning Enhances Everything
Herbs like mixed Italian seasonings, onion powder, and a touch of sea salt elevate the flavor profile. Each ingredient complements the potatoes without overpowering them, allowing their natural taste to shine through.
This is where your culinary creativity can come into play—adjust seasonings to match your preferences.
Simple Cooking Technique
The cooking method is straightforward: roast them until they’re golden brown and crispy. This technique ensures even cooking without constant attention. You can just pop them in the oven and let the magic happen—who doesn’t love a low-maintenance recipe?
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To prepare crispy roasted baby potatoes, you’ll require the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds of small baby potatoes (choose from red, Yukon gold, or a mix of colorful varieties)
- 1/2 teaspoon of coarse sea salt
- 3 tablespoons of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/4 teaspoons of dried mixed Italian herbs
- A light spritz of olive oil spray
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
How to Make Crispy Roasted Baby Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and dry the baby potatoes thoroughly. You want them dry to ensure crispiness. Cut larger ones in half if needed, aiming for uniformity in size to promote even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, combine the cleaned potatoes with the olive oil, salt, onion powder, Italian herbs, and pepper. Toss everything until the potatoes are well-coated. Every potato should be glistening with oil and seasoning!
Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned potatoes on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them! This allows for better airflow around each potato, contributing to that beautiful crispiness.
Step 5: Roast in the Oven
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Halfway through the cooking time, give them a good shake to ensure even browning.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
When the potatoes reach your desired crispiness, remove them from the oven. While still hot, sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the top for added flavor. Serve hot!
Tips & Tricks
- Choose Slightly Larger Potatoes: They hold up better and add more texture.
- Pre-soak for Extra Crispiness: Soaking the potatoes in water for 30 minutes before drying them can help remove excess starch, resulting in even crispier potatoes.
- Experiment with Herbs: Consider adding rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Drizzle with Garlic Oil: For a garlicky twist, infuse your olive oil with garlic before cooking.
- Serve Immediately: For best results, serve the potatoes fresh from the oven. Their crispiness diminishes as they cool.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
If you have any crispy roasted baby potatoes left (a rare occurrence, I know!), allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They should last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a hot oven to restore some of their original crispiness.
What Sides Would Complement Crispy Roasted Baby Potatoes?
Grilled Chicken Thighs
Juicy grilled chicken thighs seasoned with herbs can be a perfect match. The combination of crispy potatoes and tender chicken is sheer pleasure on the plate.
Fresh Garden Salad
A crisp garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds freshness. The bright greens and tangy dressing balance the richness of the potatoes.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables
Pairing these potatoes with other roasted seasonal vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, amplifies the roasted flavor profile. It’s a colorful, nutritious option that rounds out your meal beautifully.
Crispy Roasted Baby Potatoes Recipe
Equipment
- sheet pan
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds of small baby potatoes choose from red, Yukon gold, or a mix of colorful varieties
- 1/2 teaspoon of coarse sea salt
- 3 tablespoons of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 1/4 teaspoons of dried mixed Italian herbs
- A light spritz of olive oil spray
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Wash and dry the baby potatoes thoroughly. You want them dry to ensure crispiness. Cut larger ones in half if needed, aiming for uniformity in size to promote even cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the cleaned potatoes with the olive oil, salt, onion powder, Italian herbs, and pepper. Toss everything until the potatoes are well-coated. Every potato should be glistening with oil and seasoning!
- Spread the seasoned potatoes on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them! This allows for better airflow around each potato, contributing to that beautiful crispiness.
- Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Halfway through the cooking time, give them a good shake to ensure even browning.
- When the potatoes reach your desired crispiness, remove them from the oven. While still hot, sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the top for added flavor. Serve hot!
Notes
- Choose Slightly Larger Potatoes: They hold up better and add more texture.
- Pre-soak for Extra Crispiness: Soaking the potatoes in water for 30 minutes before drying them can help remove excess starch, resulting in even crispier potatoes.
- Experiment with Herbs: Consider adding rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Drizzle with Garlic Oil: For a garlicky twist, infuse your olive oil with garlic before cooking.
- Serve Immediately: For best results, serve the potatoes fresh from the oven. Their crispiness diminishes as they cool.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Crispy roasted baby potatoes are more than just a side—they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone can appreciate. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, they can take your meals from ordinary to unforgettable.
So, be bold! Next time you’re wondering what to serve alongside your main dish, reach for those baby potatoes. They won’t disappoint. Enjoy your cooking journey, and don’t forget to share your results!
Happy roasting!
