The Best Crispy Roast Potatoes Ever

Perfectly golden and incredibly crispy on the outside while fluffy and tender on the inside, these roast potatoes are a side dish that never fails to impress. With a combination of aromatic rosemary, garlic, and a choice of flavorful fats, they elevate any meal to a gourmet level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-crispy exterior with a fluffy center
• Infused with garlic and rosemary for rich flavor
• Flexible with fats: olive oil, duck fat, goose fat, or beef fat
• Ideal for holidays, dinners, or any time you crave a perfect potato
• Easily scalable for larger gatherings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt (for boiling)
• 1/2 teaspoon (4 g) baking soda
• 4 pounds (about 2 kg) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into quarters, sixths, or eighths, depending on size
• 5 tablespoons (75 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, duck fat, goose fat, or beef fat
• Small handful fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
• 3 medium cloves garlic, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Small handful fresh parsley leaves, minced

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) or 400°F (200°C) if using convection.
2. In a large pot, bring 2 quarts (2L) water to a boil. Add kosher salt, baking soda, and potatoes. Stir and return to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, until a knife meets little resistance.
3. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine your choice of fat with rosemary, garlic, and black pepper. Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until garlic turns golden (about 3 minutes). Strain oil through a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl. Set solids aside.
4. Drain potatoes and let rest in the pot for 30 seconds. Transfer to the bowl with infused oil. Season with salt and pepper, and toss vigorously until a mashed potato-like paste forms on the surface.
5. Spread potatoes on a large rimmed baking sheet. Roast without moving for 20 minutes.
6. Use a thin spatula to release stuck potatoes. Turn and shake to flip. Continue roasting for another 30 to 40 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp.
7. Transfer roasted potatoes to a bowl. Add reserved garlic/rosemary mixture and minced parsley. Toss to coat and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 to 8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 75 minutes
• Total time: 85 minutes

Variations

• Mix of potatoes: Combine russet and Yukon Golds for contrasting textures.
• Spicy version: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the infused oil.
• Lemon zest: Add zest of one lemon to the parsley for brightness.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese just before serving.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it softens the texture.

FAQs

How do I make roast potatoes extra crispy?

Parboiling with baking soda roughens the surface, helping to form a crispy crust during roasting.

Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?

Yes, thyme or sage also work well and offer different flavor profiles.

What type of fat is best?

Duck or goose fat yields the crispiest results, but olive oil is a great alternative for a vegetarian option.

Can I prep these potatoes ahead of time?

You can parboil and rough up the potatoes ahead, then roast them just before serving.

Why use baking soda in the water?

It breaks down the potato surfaces slightly, creating more starch for extra crispiness.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for uniform crispiness, but leaving the skin on adds a rustic texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have a fine-mesh strainer?

You can use a regular sieve or simply spoon out the solids from the oil.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use olive oil or any plant-based oil instead of animal fats.

Can I freeze roast potatoes?

It’s not recommended as they lose texture when thawed. Best enjoyed fresh.

What goes well with crispy roast potatoes?

They pair perfectly with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a hearty brunch side with eggs.

Conclusion

These crispy roast potatoes are a game-changer for any meal. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a festive feast, their unbeatable texture and rich flavor make them the ultimate side dish. Try them once, and they’ll become your go-to recipe for years to come.

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