Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of making Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes during a cooking class in culinary school. After experimenting with various flavors and techniques, I finally perfected the recipe that balances crunchiness with buttery softness. These potatoes quickly became a family favorite, and I love sharing them with friends at gatherings. Every time I make them, it brings back fond memories of cooking with others."

Chef Mitchell has extensive experience in American cuisine, specializing in appetizers. With over a decade in the culinary field, he has mastered the art of creating dishes that bring warmth and joy to any meal. His passion for cooking shines through each recipe he shares, especially those that celebrate the comfort of home-cooked food.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes served on a plate

Why This Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the buttery, garlicky interior. It's a combination that elevates ordinary potatoes to a gourmet level, making them an irresistible appetizer. Plus, the use of fresh herbs and cheese adds depth to the flavor profile.

The technique of preheating the oven and flipping the potatoes halfway ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness. The addition of Parmesan cheese at the end creates a delightful crust that enhances the overall dish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create this impressive appetizer at home.

💡 Professional Tip

For extra crispiness, ensure that the potatoes are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. You can also parboil them before roasting to start the cooking process and achieve that perfect crunch. Lastly, using high-quality butter will enhance the flavor dramatically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prep the potatoes and toss them in the garlic butter mixture ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them. Just note that baking from cold might require a few extra minutes in the oven to achieve that perfect crispiness.

If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will change the flavor slightly but can still yield delicious results. Additionally, you might also consider using ghee for a rich, nutty flavor without the milk solids.

The potatoes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and a fork easily pierces through the center. You can also check for a nice crunch when you take a bite. If they seem soft or undercooked, give them a few extra minutes in the oven.

While it's not ideal to freeze cooked potatoes, you can freeze the uncooked, coated potatoes. Just make sure to spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

These potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a larger appetizer platter with dips and sauces. They also complement fresh salads and veggies, making for a well-rounded meal.

Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. However, to maintain their crispiness, it's best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave.

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and coat the potatoes ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Just remember that freshly baked potatoes will always have the best texture and flavor.

To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as this will make them soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes turn out dry, it may be due to overcooking.

Solution: To avoid this, keep an eye on them while baking and check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cooking time ends. You can also increase the butter content to ensure they remain moist.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If your potatoes are not crispy, they may be overcrowded on the baking sheet.

Solution: Make sure to spread them out in a single layer and leave space between each piece. Flipping them halfway through the cooking process also helps achieve even crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked potatoes can become hard and unappetizing.

Prevention: To prevent this, check them regularly during baking and follow the recommended cooking times closely. If they are already overcooked, try serving them with a creamy dip to mask the texture.

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Undercooked Center

Problem: Undercooked potatoes can be hard and not enjoyable.

Recovery: If this happens, simply return them to the oven and continue baking until fully cooked. You can also try cutting the potatoes into smaller pieces next time for quicker cooking.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior of your potatoes burns before they are fully cooked, it may be due to high oven temperature.

Prevention: To fix this, reduce the oven temperature slightly and cover the potatoes with foil if they start to brown too quickly while cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your potatoes taste too sweet, add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the potatoes are too salty, serve them with a side of unsalted yogurt or sour cream to counteract the saltiness.

Bland: For bland potatoes, increase the seasoning by adding more garlic, herbs, or spices to enrich the flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes

The key ingredients in Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes include baby potatoes, which are perfect for achieving that desired tenderness and crispiness. Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor, while butter provides richness that ties everything together. High-quality Parmesan cheese enhances the dish, giving it a savory finish.

Using fresh ingredients, especially herbs and garlic, ensures vibrant flavors throughout the dish. Opt for high-quality unsalted butter to control the saltiness, and always choose firm potatoes for the best texture. With great ingredients, you can elevate this simple recipe to gourmet status.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Baby Potatoes: Choose firm, small to medium-sized baby potatoes for the best texture. They cook evenly and have a creamy interior when roasted. Avoid any potatoes with soft spots or green skins.
  • Fresh Garlic: Using fresh garlic is crucial for an intense flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic, as it lacks the freshness and potency of whole garlic cloves. You can adjust the quantity based on your preference for garlic richness.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Grate your Parmesan cheese fresh for optimal flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and flavor. Use a microplane grater for a fine texture that adheres well to the potatoes.
Cooking process for Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes is straightforward and rewarding. Start by preparing the potatoes and ensuring they are well-coated in the garlic butter mixture. The key is to bake them at a high temperature to achieve that crunchy exterior you desire.

Monitoring the potatoes during baking is vital to achieving perfect results. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking, and don't be afraid to adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences. The goal is to have crispy, golden potatoes that are bursting with flavor.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes

The most important technique for achieving perfect Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes is the flipping method during baking. This ensures both sides develop a nice crispness. Additionally, using a high-quality butter and fresh garlic will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
    Room temperature
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
    Fresh garlic
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
    For garnish
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    For flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
    For heat

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
    Washed and ready
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For freshness
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup scallions, sliced
    For garnish
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For coating
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    For flavor
  • Fresh herbs for garnish
    Optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the potatoes cook evenly and become crispy.

  2. Prepare Potatoes

    Wash and halve the baby potatoes, then place them in a large bowl.

  3. Mix Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, and lemon juice.

  4. Coat Potatoes

    Pour the butter mixture over the potatoes and toss until thoroughly coated.

  5. Arrange on Baking Sheet

    Spread the coated potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  6. Bake Potatoes

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

  7. Add Cheese and Garnish

    Remove from the oven, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and sliced scallions, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

  8. Serve

    Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store leftover Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain their crispiness rather than using a microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes are versatile and can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, or as a snack during game day. Pair them with sour cream or a creamy dip for an added flavor boost.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch. You can also experiment with different cheese types, such as cheddar or feta, to change the flavor profile.