In our home, weeknight dinners are often a dance between deliciousness and practicality. We crave meals that are flavorful and satisfying but don’t demand hours in the kitchen after a long day. That’s where these Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes have become an absolute superstar. The first time I made them, I was honestly surprised by how much my family raved about them. Even my youngest, who can sometimes be a bit picky about vegetables, devoured a whole bowlful. The crispy, golden outsides give way to fluffy, tender insides, and the aromatic herbs infuse every bite with a savory, earthy flavor that is simply irresistible. They’re incredibly easy to prepare – practically foolproof – and they pair beautifully with just about anything, from grilled chicken and fish to hearty vegetarian mains. Honestly, these Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes have transformed from a simple side dish into a regular request at our dinner table, and I have a feeling they’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too.

Ingredients

• Baby Potatoes: 2 lbs, choose your favorite variety! Small, thin-skinned potatoes like Yukon Golds, red potatoes, or fingerling potatoes are ideal. They roast beautifully whole or halved and offer a creamy texture.
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup, extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor and health benefits. It helps the potatoes crisp up and prevents them from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Fresh Rosemary: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. Rosemary lends a piney, fragrant, and slightly peppery flavor that is classic with roasted potatoes. Fresh rosemary is highly recommended for the best aroma and taste.
• Fresh Thyme: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. Thyme offers a delicate, earthy, and slightly lemony flavor that complements rosemary and potatoes perfectly. Fresh thyme is more aromatic than dried.
• Fresh Oregano: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped. Oregano brings a slightly pungent and peppery flavor with a hint of sweetness. It adds depth and complexity to the herb blend. Fresh oregano is preferred for its brighter flavor.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent, savory kick. Mincing it ensures it infuses the potatoes with its flavor during roasting.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, kosher salt is recommended for its coarser texture and pure flavor. It enhances the taste of all the ingredients.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground black pepper is preferred for its bolder and more aromatic flavor. It adds a subtle spice and depth.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven to Perfection: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy roasted potatoes. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the potatoes inside to ensure even cooking and browning. Using convection bake if your oven has the option can further enhance crispiness by circulating hot air evenly around the potatoes.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. There’s no need to peel baby potatoes, as their thin skins become wonderfully crispy during roasting and are packed with nutrients. If your baby potatoes are on the larger side, you may want to halve or quarter them so they cook evenly and more quickly. For smaller baby potatoes, they can be left whole.
3. Herb Infused Olive Oil Magic: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, finely chopped fresh rosemary, finely chopped fresh thyme, finely chopped fresh oregano, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This herb-infused olive oil is the flavor base for your roasted potatoes. Whisk everything together well to ensure the herbs and seasonings are evenly distributed in the oil.
4. Coat the Potatoes Generously: Add the prepared baby potatoes to the bowl with the herb-infused olive oil. Toss the potatoes thoroughly with your hands or a spatula, ensuring that every potato is generously coated with the oil and herb mixture. This step is essential for flavor and crispiness. Massage the oil and herbs into the potatoes to ensure they are fully covered.
5. Spread in a Single Layer for Crispy Goodness: Spread the coated baby potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, resulting in less crispy potatoes. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure a single layer. Spacing the potatoes allows for proper air circulation, which is key to achieving that desirable golden-brown and crispy exterior.
6. Roast to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and beautifully golden brown and crispy on the outside. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on the size of your potatoes and your oven. To ensure even browning, you can flip the potatoes halfway through the roasting time, around the 20-minute mark.
7. Optional Broiling for Extra Crisp: For an extra level of crispiness, you can broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Keep a very close eye on them while broiling, as they can burn quickly under the broiler. Broiling will give them a lovely, slightly charred edge and enhance their crispy texture.
8. Garnish and Serve Immediately: Once the potatoes are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. You can garnish them with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, for added freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately while they are hot and crispy. These Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, assuming 6 servings)

• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 220 kcal
• Fat: 12g
  • Includes monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from olive oil
• Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Includes dietary fiber and naturally occurring sugars from potatoes
• Potassium: 700mg
• Vitamin C: 20% DV (Daily Value)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

Quick and Easy from Prep to Plate: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. Active preparation time, including washing and chopping the potatoes, mincing garlic, and chopping herbs, is approximately 15-20 minutes. The oven does most of the work! Total cook time, including roasting, is about 45-60 minutes, making this a perfect side dish for busy weeknights or when you need a delicious yet effortless addition to your meal.

How to Serve

Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can elevate a wide array of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Classic Side Dish:
  • Protein Powerhouse: Pair them with grilled or roasted chicken, steak, fish (like salmon or cod), or pork tenderloin for a satisfying and balanced meal.
  • Vegetarian Delights: Serve alongside vegetarian mains like lentil loaf, grilled halloumi, stuffed bell peppers, or a hearty bean stew.
  • Holiday Feasts: These potatoes are a fantastic addition to holiday tables, complementing turkey, ham, or prime rib during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners.
• Beyond the Side:
  • Potato Bowls: Create delicious and customizable potato bowls by topping roasted baby potatoes with your favorite proteins (grilled chicken, chickpeas, tofu), roasted vegetables, sauces (pesto, aioli, yogurt dressing), and fresh greens.
  • Salad Booster: Add cooled Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes to salads for extra heartiness and flavor. They work wonderfully in warm potato salads or tossed into green salads with vinaigrette.
  • Breakfast Hash Upgrade: Dice leftover roasted potatoes and add them to your breakfast hash with eggs, onions, and peppers for a flavorful and satisfying morning meal.
  • Taco or Burrito Filling: For a unique twist, incorporate diced roasted baby potatoes into vegetarian tacos or burritos, adding a creamy and flavorful element.
• Dip it Up!:
  • Classic Dips: Serve with classic dips like ketchup, aioli, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce for casual gatherings.
  • Herby Dips: Enhance the herb flavors by serving with herb-infused yogurt dips, pesto aioli, or a creamy dill sauce.
  • Spicy Kicks: Offer spicy dips like sriracha mayo, chipotle aioli, or a spicy cilantro lime crema for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Additional Tips for Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes Perfection

1. Potato Variety Matters: While Yukon Golds, red potatoes, and fingerling potatoes are excellent choices, experiment with other baby potato varieties. Purple potatoes offer a beautiful color and slightly nutty flavor, while white potatoes are mild and versatile. Each variety brings a slightly different texture and flavor profile to your roasted potatoes.
2. Herb Customization is Key: Feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking and what you have on hand. Try using different combinations like:
   • Italian Blend: Basil, oregano, and parsley for an Italian-inspired flavor.
   • Provençal Herbs: Herbes de Provence blend for a classic French touch.
   • Mediterranean Flair: Rosemary, oregano, and mint for a refreshing Mediterranean twist.
   • Smoky and Spicy: Add smoked paprika and chili flakes for a warm and spicy kick.
3. Garlic Lovers Rejoice!: If you adore garlic, don’t hesitate to add more minced garlic cloves or even incorporate roasted garlic for a sweeter, mellower garlic flavor. You can also use garlic powder for a more subtle garlic taste, but fresh garlic offers a more pungent and aromatic flavor.
4. Spice it Up with Spices: Beyond herbs, consider adding other spices to elevate the flavor profile. Paprika (sweet or smoked), onion powder, dried mustard, cumin, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add layers of complexity and warmth to your roasted potatoes.
5. Cheese Please!: For a richer and more decadent side dish, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of roasting. The Parmesan will melt and create a delicious cheesy crust. Feta cheese, crumbled after roasting, also adds a salty and tangy element.
6. Lemon Zest and Juice for Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest after roasting adds a bright, zesty note that cuts through the richness of the potatoes and herbs, enhancing the overall flavor and freshness.
7. Roasting Techniques for Maximum Crispiness:
   • High Heat is Your Friend: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) or even 425°F (220°C) promotes crisping.
   • Convection Oven Advantage: If you have a convection oven, use the convection roast setting for even more consistent browning and crispiness.
   • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure potatoes are in a single layer for optimal air circulation and crisping.
   • Preheat the Baking Sheet: For extra crispiness on the bottom, you can preheat the baking sheet in the oven before adding the potatoes.
8. Storage and Reheating Tips:
   • Storage: Leftover Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
   • Reheating: To reheat and maintain crispiness, spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for quicker crisping. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
   • Yes, you can! If using regular potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, peel them, cut them into 1-2 inch chunks, and follow the recipe as directed. Baby potatoes are preferred for their convenience (no peeling!) and creamy texture, but regular potatoes work just as well. The roasting time might need to be slightly adjusted depending on the size of the potato chunks.
2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
   • While fresh herbs are highly recommended for their superior aroma and flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs called for in the recipe. For example, use 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary and 2 teaspoons of dried thyme instead of 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary and thyme each. Dried herbs tend to be more concentrated in flavor, so use them sparingly.
3. How do I make sure my roasted potatoes are extra crispy?
   • Several factors contribute to crispy roasted potatoes: high oven temperature (400°F or higher), ensuring potatoes are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet (avoid overcrowding), using enough olive oil to coat them well, and optionally broiling them for the last few minutes of cooking. Convection roasting and preheating the baking sheet can also enhance crispiness.
4. Can I prepare Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes ahead of time?
   • You can prepare the potatoes up to the point of roasting a few hours in advance. Wash and cut the potatoes, toss them with the herb-infused olive oil, and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to roast, simply spread them on a baking sheet and proceed with the roasting instructions. Roasting them fresh will yield the best texture and flavor.
5. How should I store leftover roasted baby potatoes?
   • Store leftover Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are cooled completely before refrigerating.
6. Can I freeze roasted baby potatoes?
   • While you can technically freeze roasted potatoes, the texture might change slightly upon thawing and reheating. They may become a bit softer. To freeze, let them cool completely, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer for best results.
7. What are the best herbs to use for roasted potatoes?
   • Rosemary, thyme, and oregano are classic and delicious choices for roasted potatoes. Other excellent herbs include parsley, sage, marjoram, and chives. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite herb blend. You can also use herb blends like Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning.
8. Can I add other vegetables to roast with the baby potatoes?
   • Absolutely! Roasted vegetables are a wonderful combination. Vegetables that roast well with potatoes include onions, bell peppers, carrots, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, asparagus, and zucchini. Add vegetables that require longer roasting times (like carrots and onions) at the beginning with the potatoes, and add quicker-cooking vegetables (like broccoli and zucchini) halfway through the roasting time to ensure they don’t overcook. Adjust roasting time as needed depending on the vegetables you add.

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