Baked Garlic Butter Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Baked Garlic Butter Potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal with their rich flavor and comforting texture. As someone who has always appreciated the simple pleasures of home-cooked food, I find that these potatoes are not just a recipe; they are a celebration of comfort and taste. The combination of garlic and butter creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Historically, potatoes have been a staple in many cultures, symbolizing sustenance and warmth. People love Baked Garlic Butter Potatoes for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, making them the perfect accompaniment to any main course. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as we dive into this irresistible recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds baby potatoes (or small Yukon Gold potatoes)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Potatoes

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the potatoes will bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. 2. **Wash the Potatoes**: Rinse the baby potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Since we’re leaving the skins on, it’s important to clean them well. 3. **Cut the Potatoes**: Depending on the size of your potatoes, you can either leave them whole or cut them in half. If they are larger, quartering them is a good idea. The goal is to have uniform pieces so they cook evenly. 4. **Boil the Potatoes**: In a large pot, add the potatoes and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. You want them to be firm enough to hold their shape during baking. 5. **Drain and Cool**: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle when you’re ready to coat them in the garlic butter.

Making the Garlic Butter Mixture

6. **Melt the Butter**: In a medium-sized bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you’re using the microwave, do it in short bursts to avoid splattering. 7. **Add Garlic and Herbs**: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined. The aroma of the garlic and herbs will be absolutely delightful! 8. **Optional Cheese Addition**: If you’re a cheese lover like me, this is the time to add the grated Parmesan cheese to the butter mixture. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a bit of a crispy texture when baked.

Coating the Potatoes

9. **Combine Potatoes and Garlic Butter**: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained potatoes. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the potatoes, making sure to coat them evenly. I like to use a spatula or my hands to gently toss the potatoes, ensuring every piece is covered in that delicious garlic butter. 10. **Prepare the Baking Sheet**: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This will help prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup easier. 11. **Spread the Potatoes**: Transfer the coated potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer, giving them enough space to roast properly. If they are too crowded, they will steam instead of getting crispy.

Baking the Potatoes

12. **Bake in the Oven**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, I like to give the potatoes a good toss with a spatula to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. 13. **Check for Doneness**: After 25 minutes, check the potatoes. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If they need a little more time, pop them back in for an additional 5-10 minutes. 14. **Garnish**: Once they are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the potatoes cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

15. **Plate the Potatoes**: Transfer the baked garlic butter potatoes to a serving dish. They are perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a snack on their own. 16

Conclusion:

In summary, these Baked Garlic Butter Potatoes are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their side dish game. The combination of crispy edges and a buttery, garlicky interior creates a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with just about any main course. Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian dish, these potatoes will undoubtedly steal the show. For a fun twist, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter for an aromatic touch, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as paprika or chili flakes, to give your potatoes a little kick. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you’ve made these Baked Garlic Butter Potatoes, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together! Happy cooking! Print