Potatoes are the most versatile and beloved vegetables in the world. They can be boiled, mashed, fried, or baked, but one of the most popular ways to prepare them is by roasting them in the oven. Oven-roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that can complement any meal and are easy to make. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make perfectly oven roasted potatoes every time.
Choose The Right Type Of Potato
The type of potato you use can make big difference in the outcome of your roasted potatoes. Russet potatoes are most commonly used for roasting, but they can also be starchy and crumble easily. If you want a firmer texture, try using Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They have a lower starch content and hold their shape better when roasted.
Prep The Potatoes
Once you’ve chosen your potatoes, it’s time to prep them for roasting. Start by washing and scrubbing them to remove any dirt or debris. Then, peel them if desired (this is optional). Next, cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This will guarantee that they cook uniformly in the oven.
Parboil The Potatoes
Parboiling is the process of partially cooking the potatoes before roasting them in the oven. This helps to soften them up and ensures that they cook all the way through without becoming too crispy on the outside. To parboil the potatoes, place them in a pot of cold water and bring them to a boil. Let them boil for about 5-7 minutes or until they start softening. Then, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes.
Season The Potatoes
Now it’s time to add some flavor to your potatoes. You can keep it simple with salt and pepper or get creative with your seasoning. Some popular seasonings for roasted potatoes include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), and Parmesan cheese. Toss the potatoes with your desired seasonings, oil, or melted butter, to help the seasonings stick.
Roast The Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400° Fahrenheit. Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a straight layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t too packed or they won’t cook equally. Roast potatoes for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, in a preheated oven. Poke them with a utensil or knife to see if they’re done; if they’re soft and delicate, they’re done!
Serve And Enjoy
Once your roasted potatoes are done, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy them. They make a great side dish, from a simple weeknight dinner to a holiday feast. You can add them to salads or use them as a base for a breakfast hash. However, you choose to serve them, savor every crispy, flavorful bite.
Tips For Perfectly Roasted Potatoes
Here are few additional tips to help you make the best-roasted potatoes possible:
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. If the potatoes are too close together, they’ll steam instead of roasting, making them soggy.
- Use a baking sheet with a rim. This will prevent the potatoes from rolling off the sheet while tossing them.
- Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking. This will ensure that they cook evenly on all sides and get crispy.
- Use a higher oven temperature for crispier potatoes. If you want extra crispy potatoes, try roasting them at 425°F or even 450°F.
Conclusion
Oven-roasted potatoes are a simple yet delicious side dish that complements any meal. By following these steps outlined in this guide, you can make perfectly roasted potatoes every time. Remember to choose the right type of potato, parboil them before roasting, season them well, and roast them at the right temperature. With a little practice and some experimentation, you’ll be a roasted potato pro in no time!