Homemade Roast Potatoes

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to elevate your meals, you’ve come to the right place! Homemade Roast Potatoes are a family favorite in my kitchen. There’s something magical about those crispy edges and fluffy interiors that make them incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these roast potatoes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe so special is how simple it is. Just a handful of wholesome ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dish. Trust me, once you try these Homemade Roast Potatoes, they’ll become a staple on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up a delicious side dish without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves crispy roast potatoes! They pair perfectly with any main course and please even the pickiest eaters.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and reheat them for quick weeknight meals.
• Versatile Flavors: You can easily customize the herbs and spices to suit your taste, making each batch unique!
• Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like the warm, cozy feeling of enjoying homemade roast potatoes with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make those delicious Homemade Roast Potatoes:

For the Roast Potatoes

• 4 lb russet or yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 2 tbsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 5 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, duck fat, goose fat, or beef fat

For Flavoring

• 1 small bunch rosemary leaves, finely chopped
• 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small handful fresh parsley leaves, chopped

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your mood. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick!
• Herb Swap: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano if rosemary isn’t your favorite.
• Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last few minutes of baking for a delicious twist.
• Vegetable Medley: Mix in some carrots or parsnips for added flavor and color.

How to Make Homemade Roast Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating up, peel and chop your potatoes into large chunks. This size helps achieve that perfect balance between crispy outside and fluffy inside. Rinse them briefly under cold water to remove excess starch – this step is key for achieving crispiness!

Step 2: Parboil Potatoes

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the potato chunks along with the baking soda and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes until they are slightly tender but still firm. Parboiling helps kick-start the cooking process and contributes to that lovely texture we all crave.

Step 3: Drain and Steam Dry

Once parboiled, drain the potatoes well in a colander. Allow them to steam dry for about five minutes. This step is essential as it removes excess moisture, ensuring your potatoes crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Season and Coat

In a large bowl, combine the drained potatoes with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary. Gently toss everything together until all the potatoes are evenly coated. The oil helps get those crispy edges while infusing flavors from the garlic and herbs.

Step 5: Roast Away!

Spread the seasoned potatoes out on a baking sheet in a single layer – overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of roasting. Pop them into your preheated oven and roast for about 45-60 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remember to flip them halfway through for even browning!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over your Homemade Roast Potatoes for that final touch of flavor and color. Serve immediately alongside your favorite main dishes, or enjoy them as they are!

Now you’re all set! I hope these Homemade Roast Potatoes bring as much joy to your table as they do mine. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Roast Potatoes

Getting those roast potatoes just right is all about the details! Here are some handy tips to ensure your potatoes come out perfectly crispy and delicious every time.

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for russet or Yukon gold potatoes as they have a high starch content, which helps create that light, fluffy interior while achieving a crispy exterior.
• Soak Before Cooking: Soaking your potato chunks in cold water for at least 30 minutes helps remove excess starch. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch!
• Use Hot Fat: Preheat your oil (or fat) in the oven before adding the potatoes. This will give them an immediate sizzle when you place them in the pan, ensuring a crispy finish.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Arrange your potatoes in a single layer with space between them. Crowding can trap steam and prevent that beautiful browning from happening.
• Toss Halfway Through: Give your potatoes a gentle toss halfway through cooking. This redistributes them and ensures they brown evenly on all sides.

How to Serve Homemade Roast Potatoes

Presentation is key when serving up these delightful roast potatoes! They make a stunning addition to any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or additional rosemary on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright, zesty contrast that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Parmesan Cheese: For those who enjoy it, a dusting of grated parmesan cheese can add an extra layer of flavor and sophistication.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers roasted alongside your potatoes makes for a vibrant and nutritious side.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of roast potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: Pairing your roast potatoes with grilled chicken or fish creates a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These lightly steamed greens add not only color but also essential nutrients to balance out the meal.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, your Homemade Roast Potatoes will surely be the highlight of any table! Enjoy cooking and savoring this comforting dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Homemade roast potatoes are not just a delicious side dish; they are also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and enjoy their crispy goodness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roast potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-5 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the roast potatoes cool completely.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling with the date. Enjoy within 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Spread the frozen or refrigerated roast potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making homemade roast potatoes that can help you achieve potato perfection!

How do I make homemade roast potatoes crispy?

To ensure your homemade roast potatoes turn out crispy, use a high smoke point oil like olive oil or fat. Also, parboil them with baking soda to create a rough surface before roasting.

Can I prepare homemade roast potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep your homemade roast potatoes ahead of time by parboiling, tossing them in oil and seasonings, then refrigerating until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinner stress-free!

What types of potatoes are best for homemade roast potatoes?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for homemade roast potatoes due to their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy interior and crispy exterior when roasted.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs in homemade roast potatoes?

Fresh herbs like rosemary enhance the flavor of your homemade roast potatoes significantly. However, if you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can be used as well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these homemade roast potatoes! They’re not only simple to prepare but also elevate any meal with their crunchy exterior and fluffy inside. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy weeknight dinner, these potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience with this delightful recipe!