3-Ingredient Garlic Potatoes

This 3-ingredient garlic potatoes recipe makes a wonderfully simple and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. With just potatoes, olive oil, Italian herbs, and garlic powder, you get crispy, golden roasted potatoes that complement everything from holiday feasts to casual dinners. Growing up, this was a dish that always found its way onto our family table, loved for its comforting taste and ease of preparation.

I made this dish during a busy holiday season and it received so many compliments that it quickly became a new family favorite.

Ingredients

• Potatoes: Four to five large potatoes cut into chunks choose firm potatoes like russet or Yukon gold for the best texture and roasting results
• Olive oil: Four tablespoons of olive oil provides a rich flavor and helps the potatoes crisp up
• Italian herbs: Two teaspoons of Italian herbs a fragrant blend that adds depth and Mediterranean notes fresh herbs can be substituted if you prefer
• Garlic powder: Three teaspoons of garlic powder infuses a mellow garlic flavor evenly across the potatoes
• Salt: Half a teaspoon of salt essential for enhancing all the other flavors
• Black pepper: Half a teaspoon of black pepper adds a subtle kick and balances the seasoning

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

Thoroughly wash and dry the potatoes to remove any excess moisture. Cut them into evenly sized chunks approximately one to one and a half inches so they cook uniformly. Pat the cut pieces dry carefully to ensure they will roast crisp rather than steam.

Season the Potatoes:

In a large bowl, combine the potato chunks with the olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful seasoning blend.

Arrange for Roasting:

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it well. Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer, making sure there is plenty of space between pieces to avoid overcrowding. This promotes crispiness by allowing the hot air to circulate properly.

Roast Until Golden:

Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 30 to 35 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure each side gets beautifully browned. When done, the potatoes will have golden crispy edges and tender centers. For an extra crunch, broil them for two to three minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Serve Immediately:

Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish while hot. Optionally sprinkle with coarse sea salt or fresh herbs like parsley for a finishing touch that elevates both flavor and appearance.

My favorite part of this recipe is the garlic flavor which brings warmth to the potatoes without overpowering them. I remember serving this at a holiday dinner where everyone kept going back for seconds, even the kids who usually avoid veggies.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in a hot oven or toaster oven to bring back the crispness rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap olive oil for avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point and a slightly nuttier taste. Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder by adding finely minced cloves halfway through roasting to prevent burning, giving a more pungent garlic aroma.

Serving Suggestions

These garlic potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a fresh green salad. For a brunch spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs, sautéed spinach, and roasted tomatoes to round out the meal with color and flavor.

These garlic potatoes are an easy crowd pleasing side that elevates any meal. Enjoy them hot for the best texture.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Why aren't my potatoes crispy?

Potatoes may lack crispiness if the baking sheet is overcrowded, the pieces are not dried well, or the oven temperature is too low. Spread potatoes in a single layer and ensure they are dry before roasting at 425°F (220°C) for best results.

→ Can different potato varieties be used?

Yes, Yukon gold, red potatoes, or fingerlings work well. Russets develop the crispiest texture, while Yukon golds yield a creamier interior. Adjust roasting time based on size and thickness.

→ How to prevent garlic from burning?

When using fresh garlic, add it halfway through roasting to avoid burning. Garlic powder mixed with oil and herbs is less likely to burn throughout roasting.

→ Is advance preparation possible?

You can cut and season potatoes a few hours ahead but for maximum crispiness roast just before serving. Store cut potatoes in cold water to prevent browning and dry them thoroughly before seasoning.

→ What are good serving suggestions?

Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Pair alongside fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.