Oven Roasted Potatoes

Oven Roasted Potatoes are a timeless side dish that fits effortlessly into everyday dinners and special occasions alike. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these potatoes are seasoned simply to highlight their natural flavor. They pair well with almost any main dish, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees, and can be easily customized with different herbs and spices.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds red potatoes, yellow potatoes, or Yukon gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, parsley, thyme, or basil) or 2 teaspoons dried herbs
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 425°F.
• Scrub the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
• If time allows, soak the potatoes in cold water for 20 minutes to 1 hour to remove excess starch. Drain and dry thoroughly.
• Place the potatoes in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
• Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Roast for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve hot straight from the oven for the best texture and flavor.
• Pair with roasted chicken, steak, fish, or a fresh salad.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Variations

1. Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Add grated parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a savory finish.
2. Lemon Herb Potatoes: Toss with fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice after roasting for a bright flavor.
3. Spicy Roasted Potatoes: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
4. Italian-Style Potatoes: Use Italian seasoning and finish with grated pecorino romano.
5. Ranch Potatoes: Toss with ranch seasoning mix instead of herbs.
6. Rosemary Garlic Potatoes: Increase fresh rosemary and add minced garlic for a bold, aromatic flavor.
7. Smoked Paprika Potatoes: Swap regular paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky taste.
8. Cheesy Roasted Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes.
9. Dijon Herb Potatoes: Mix a teaspoon of Dijon mustard with the olive oil before tossing the potatoes.
10. Cajun Roasted Potatoes: Use Cajun seasoning for a bold, southern-inspired variation.
11. Balsamic Potatoes: Drizzle with balsamic glaze after roasting for a sweet and tangy finish.
12. Greek-Style Potatoes: Add oregano and finish with crumbled feta cheese and lemon juice.
13. Bacon Roasted Potatoes: Toss with cooked, crumbled bacon just before serving.
14. Chili Lime Potatoes: Season with chili powder and finish with fresh lime juice and cilantro.
15. Herb Butter Potatoes: Toss the hot potatoes with melted herb butter for extra richness.

FAQs

1. Do I have to soak the potatoes first?
   No, soaking is optional, but it helps remove excess starch and makes the potatoes fluffier inside.
2. What type of potatoes work best for roasting?
   Red potatoes, Yukon gold, and yellow potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well.
3. Can I use russet potatoes?
   Yes, but they may be slightly drier and more crumbly than waxier potatoes.
4. How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?
   Make sure the potatoes are completely dry before tossing with oil and avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
   You can cut and soak the potatoes a few hours ahead, then dry and roast when ready.
6. Should I line the baking sheet?
   You can use parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup, but direct contact with the pan helps browning.
7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
   Yes, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
8. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in a 400°F oven or air fryer for best results.
9. Can I freeze roasted potatoes?
   Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become mushy when reheated.
10. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
    They should be golden brown on the outside and fork-tender on the inside.

Oven Roasted Potatoes are a simple yet satisfying side dish that never goes out of style. With minimal prep and endless seasoning options, they’re a reliable recipe you can adapt to any meal or flavor preference.

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