My kids love helping me in the kitchen, but they get a little impatient when I make roasted vegetables because they think it takes too long. In this Easy Roast Potatoes recipe, though, the potatoes roast quickly, are easy to toss with seasonings, and smell amazing while baking, which keeps them excited. They can even sneak a piece before the meal is ready, and honestly, I don’t mind because they taste so good hot from the oven.

I have always loved a simple potato recipe that doesn’t require complicated steps or fancy ingredients. I use olive oil, a little salt and pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme to bring out the natural flavor. Always making sure the potatoes are evenly cut and dried before roasting is my secret to getting that perfect golden crispiness.

You can serve these roast potatoes with almost anything: a juicy roast chicken, grilled vegetables, a hearty beef stew, or even alongside a fresh salad. Some people enjoy adding a dollop of garlic aioli or sour cream for extra richness. Also, they pair beautifully with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or a slice of garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Its Perfect For:

• Family dinners on busy weeknights
• Holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas
• Sunday brunches with eggs and bacon
• Picnics or potluck gatherings
• Comfort food cravings on rainy days

Ingredients

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled or unpeeled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1 tablespoon melted butter for extra richness
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet or tray
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Spatula or tongs for flipping
• Oven

How to Make Easy Roast Potatoes

Step 1

Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well and cut them into evenly sized chunks—about 1 to 1½ inches thick. Keeping the pieces uniform helps them roast evenly and get crispy on all sides. Pat them dry using a kitchen towel; removing excess moisture is important so they crisp up nicely in the oven.

Step 2

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is essential for achieving golden-brown, crispy edges. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 3

Season the potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary (or thyme), salt, and pepper. If you want a richer flavor, drizzle in the melted butter as well. Toss thoroughly until every piece is glossy and well-coated. Take a moment to spread the potatoes out with your hands to ensure that none of them are stacked—space between each piece helps them crisp instead of steam.

Step 4

Roast the potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Place them in the oven and roast for 40–45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. When you flip, make sure each potato rests on a new side to brown evenly. By the end of roasting, the potatoes should be deeply golden, crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside.

Step 5

Finish and serve: Remove the tray from the oven and let the potatoes rest for a minute. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and extra aroma. Transfer immediately to a serving bowl or plate while they’re still hot and crunchy.

Tips for Perfect Roast Potatoes

• Cut evenly: Uniform potato chunks ensure even cooking and perfect crispiness every time.
• Dry thoroughly: Moisture prevents browning, so pat potatoes dry before adding oil.
• High heat is key: Roast at 425°F (220°C) for golden edges and soft interiors.
• Flip halfway: Turning the potatoes mid-roast ensures all sides crisp up evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between pieces to avoid steaming instead of roasting.
• Add herbs early: Season potatoes before roasting to allow flavors to infuse.
• Rest briefly: Let the potatoes sit a minute before serving for better texture and flavor.

Optional Ingredients

• Melted butter for richer flavor
• Paprika for a smoky touch
• Parmesan cheese for a savory finish
• Garlic cloves, roasted with potatoes
• Lemon zest for freshness
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

How to Serve Easy Roast Potatoes?

I like to serve Easy Roast Potatoes straight from the oven while they are still warm and crunchy. The aroma itself is inviting, and it makes everyone gather around the table. Sometimes I arrange them in a serving bowl with a little extra sprinkle of salt and freshly chopped parsley to make them look extra appetizing.

I also love pairing them with a protein, like a roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a meatloaf. The crispiness of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with tender meats, creating a satisfying balance of textures. On weekends, I sometimes serve them with scrambled eggs or a veggie frittata for a comforting brunch option.

Another way I enjoy serving these potatoes is as a casual snack or appetizer. You can drizzle them with a little garlic aioli, sprinkle some paprika or Parmesan, and they become a fun, shareable dish. Adding a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad can make it a complete, wholesome meal that everyone enjoys.

Is Easy Roast Potatoes Healthy?

Easy Roast Potatoes are surprisingly healthy when prepared with a moderate amount of olive oil. Potatoes are naturally rich in vitamins like C and B6, as well as potassium and fiber. Roasting instead of frying keeps them lower in calories and fat while maintaining their satisfying texture.

When paired with lean proteins and vegetables, they make a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. You can also customize the seasonings to avoid excess salt and add herbs for extra antioxidants and flavor. With simple ingredients and healthy cooking methods, roast potatoes can easily fit into a wholesome diet.

Variations and Substitutions

• Garlic and Herb Roast: Toss potatoes with minced garlic and mixed dried herbs before roasting. The aroma fills the kitchen and adds depth to every bite.
• Cheesy Roast: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over potatoes halfway through roasting. You get a crispy, cheesy crust without any extra effort.
• Spicy Roast: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Perfect for those who love a little kick with their sides.
• Butter and Thyme: Use melted butter instead of olive oil and fresh thyme sprigs. It creates a rich, aromatic flavor that’s irresistible.
• Lemon Zest Roast: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest after baking. It brightens the potatoes and gives a fresh, slightly tangy twist.
• Sweet Potato Version: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes. They roast beautifully and add natural sweetness.
• Crunchy Panko Coating: Toss potatoes with panko crumbs before roasting. Creates extra crunch without deep frying.
• Mixed Veggie Roast: Combine potatoes with carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. A colorful, nutrient-packed variation that’s perfect for family dinners.

How to Store and Reheat

Leftover roast potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess. If possible, keep the potatoes in a single layer to maintain their crispiness.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 10–15 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat in a skillet with a teaspoon of oil over medium heat for a quick and crunchy result. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soft and less appetizing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Roast Potatoes

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes?
A: Yes, frozen potatoes can work, but make sure to thaw them first and pat them completely dry. Frozen potatoes release extra moisture, which can make them soft instead of crispy. Thawing and drying helps them roast beautifully with golden, crunchy edges.

Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can peel, cut, and season the potatoes in advance, then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, roast them directly from the fridge for fresh, hot, and crispy potatoes without much extra work.

Q: How do I make them extra crispy?
A: Dry the potatoes thoroughly, spread them out with space between each piece, and roast at high heat. Flipping them halfway ensures every side crisps evenly, giving that perfect golden crunch that everyone loves.

Q: Can I add spices for flavor?
A: Definitely! Paprika, garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or a pinch of chili powder all work beautifully. Mixing spices lets you customize the flavor to match any meal, from simple weeknight dinners to festive holiday spreads.

Easy Roast Potatoes Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Side DishCuisine: American / EuropeanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

This recipe brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity to the table. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone happy and can be adapted in endless ways to suit your taste. Crispy, golden, and easy to prepare, these roast potatoes are a must-have for any home cook looking for a versatile and delicious side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled or unpeeled

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: 1 tablespoon melted butter for extra richness

• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

• Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well and cut them into evenly sized chunks—about 1 to 1½ inches thick. Keeping the pieces uniform helps them roast evenly and get crispy on all sides. Pat them dry using a kitchen towel; removing excess moisture is important so they crisp up nicely in the oven.
• Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is essential for achieving golden-brown, crispy edges. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
• Season the potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary (or thyme), salt, and pepper. If you want a richer flavor, drizzle in the melted butter as well. Toss thoroughly until every piece is glossy and well-coated. Take a moment to spread the potatoes out with your hands to ensure that none of them are stacked—space between each piece helps them crisp instead of steam.
• Roast the potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Place them in the oven and roast for 40–45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. When you flip, make sure each potato rests on a new side to brown evenly. By the end of roasting, the potatoes should be deeply golden, crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside.
• Finish and serve: Remove the tray from the oven and let the potatoes rest for a minute. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and extra aroma. Transfer immediately to a serving bowl or plate while they’re still hot and crunchy.