Some recipes don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to become unforgettable. Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes are one of those timeless dishes that prove simplicity, when done right, is unbeatable. This recipe delivers potatoes that are golden and crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and coated in a rich garlic butter glaze that clings to every bite.

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a family dinner, adding them to a holiday spread, or just craving comfort food on a random weeknight, these potatoes show up every time. They’re affordable, reliable, and universally loved—which is why this recipe deserves a detailed, no-rush breakdown.

In this long-form guide, you’ll learn why this method works, how to avoid soggy potatoes forever, and how to customize the flavors while keeping that signature crispiness intact.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Uses basic pantry ingredients
Crispy without deep frying
Works for weeknights and special occasions
Pairs with almost any main dish
Foolproof technique with repeatable results

Ingredients

baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work best)
unsalted butter
olive oil
fresh garlic cloves
salt
freshly ground black pepper
paprika
fresh parsley

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is crucial for crispiness.
Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Keep sizes uniform so they cook evenly.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the potatoes. Boil for 8–10 minutes, just until the edges start to soften.
Drain the potatoes completely and allow them to steam dry for 5 minutes. This step removes excess moisture and helps crisp the surface.
Transfer potatoes to a large bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Spread potatoes cut-side down on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast for 35–40 minutes, flipping once halfway, until deeply golden and crispy.
While potatoes roast, melt butter in a small skillet over low heat.
Add minced garlic and cook gently for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant (do not brown).
Remove potatoes from oven and immediately toss with garlic butter.
Finish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

The Secret to Extra-Crispy Potatoes

The magic happens in three places:

Parboiling roughens the potato surface, creating crispy edges.
High oven temperature evaporates moisture fast.
Cut-side down roasting maximizes surface contact.

Skip any of these, and you’ll get decent potatoes—but not great ones.

Flavor Variations

Parmesan Garlic Potatoes: Add grated parmesan after roasting.
Spicy Potatoes: Add chili flakes or cayenne.
Herb Butter Potatoes: Mix thyme or rosemary into the butter.
Lemon Garlic Potatoes: Finish with lemon zest and juice.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Potatoes

Grilled steak
Roast chicken
Baked salmon
Burgers
Fried eggs for brunch

These potatoes don’t just support the meal—they upgrade it.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible.