If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect side dish that elevates any meal, look no further than these Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 Recipe. This recipe delivers ultra-crisp exteriors with tender, fluffy interiors, all infused with fragrant rosemary and rich garlic flavor that will have you reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s Whole30-compliant, so it fits wonderfully into a clean-eating lifestyle without sacrificing any indulgence. With such simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these potatoes are destined to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe really shines because of its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of texture and flavor. From the creamy yellow potatoes to the savory rosemary and garlic, everything combines for a standout dish.
- 4 pounds yellow potatoes: These have the perfect starch content to create a crispy yet fluffy roast.
- ¼ cup duck fat (or olive oil): Duck fat lends incredible richness and helps achieve a crispy crust; olive oil is a great alternative for a lighter option.
- 1 whole head garlic: Roasting the garlic mellows its sharpness, imparting a subtle sweetness to the potatoes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary: The fresh herb adds a piney, fragrant note that pairs perfectly with roasted potatoes.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
How to Make Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F and placing a large roasting pan inside. This step sounds simple but is critical because a hot pan helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully rather than steam.
Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes
Give the potatoes a good rinse under cold water, then toss them into a large pot filled with cold water, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of baking soda. Bringing them to a boil and cooking until fork-tender (about 25 minutes) ensures a fluffy inside once roasted. Drain them well and let them dry completely—dry potatoes roast better and crisp more easily.
Step 3: Roast with Fat and Garlic
Carefully remove the heated roasting pan from the oven and add the duck fat, allowing it to melt and get hot. Then, add the dried potatoes, lightly seasoning them with salt and pepper. Nestle the whole head of garlic, cut-side down, among the potatoes; it will roast and infuse the mixture with a heady aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Roast and Toss Frequently
Place the pan back in the oven and roast for 55 to 60 minutes. Remember to toss the potatoes every 20 minutes to encourage even browning and develop that legendary golden crust.
Step 5: Add Rosemary-Garlic Finish
Once the potatoes are beautifully golden, remove the garlic from the pan and mash the softened cloves together with fresh rosemary and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss this fragrant mixture with the potatoes and pop them back into the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This final touch boosts the flavor and gives the potatoes an irresistible finish.
How to Serve Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh rosemary or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before serving adds freshness and a touch of elegance. For a pop of color and freshness, finely chopped parsley works wonderfully, too.
Side Dishes
These crispy roast potatoes are flexible side heroes. Pair them with a succulent roast chicken, baked salmon, or a simple grilled steak. They also complement vibrant vegetable mains like roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an irresistible presentation, serve the potatoes in a rustic cast-iron skillet straight from the oven. Alternatively, plate them alongside a bright herb salad or drizzle with a Whole30-approved aioli to turn this simple side into a star attraction at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They retain their flavor beautifully and reheat nicely.
Freezing
While freezing roasted potatoes can sometimes affect texture, you can freeze the cooled potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick side dish.
Reheating
To bring back their original crispiness, reheat the potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes instead of using a microwave. This method revives their golden crust and keeps the interiors fluffy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
While yellow potatoes work best due to their balance of starch and moisture, you can experiment with Yukon Golds or even red potatoes. Just keep in mind that waxier potatoes may result in less crispiness.
Is duck fat necessary, or can I use another fat?
Duck fat is ideal for richness and crisp texture, but olive oil is a perfectly good alternative, especially if you prefer a lighter or plant-based fat. Just keep the amount the same to ensure proper roasting.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can parboil and dry the potatoes a day ahead, then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, roast them with the garlic and fat as directed to ensure maximum crispiness and flavor.
How do I know when the potatoes are done roasting?
The potatoes should be a deep golden brown with a crispy exterior and a tender interior when pierced with a fork. Tossing them every 20 minutes helps them cook evenly and prevents burning.
Is this recipe suitable for other dietary preferences?
Yes! This Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 Recipe is naturally gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and suitable for most clean-eating diets. Just be sure to use Whole30-approved fats and seasonings.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 Recipe, it will quickly become a go-to in your meal rotation. The combination of crispy edges and tender centers with fresh herbs and roasted garlic is truly unbeatable. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, these potatoes bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of gourmet flair to your table. Give it a whirl—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Whole30
Description
These Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic deliver golden, flavorful potatoes perfect for a Whole30-compliant meal. Roasted with duck fat and infused with fresh rosemary and roasted garlic, this recipe ensures crispy edges and a tender interior, making it a delicious side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 pounds yellow potatoes
Fat & Oil
- ¼ cup duck fat (or olive oil)
- Additional olive oil (~1 tablespoon) for garlic mash
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
Other
- 1 whole head garlic
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Roasting Pan: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a large roasting pan inside the oven as it heats to get it very hot, which will help achieve crispy potatoes.
- Prepare Potatoes: Rinse the yellow potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of kosher salt and a small amount of baking soda to the water, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, about 25 minutes. Drain them thoroughly and allow to dry completely to ensure crispiness.
- Roasting Setup: Carefully remove the hot roasting pan from the oven. Add the duck fat to the pan to melt. Add the dried potatoes into the pan, turning them to coat evenly in the melted fat. Season lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Nestle the whole head of garlic cut-side down among the potatoes in the pan.
- Roast Potatoes: Place the pan back into the oven and roast for 55-60 minutes. Every 20 minutes, toss the potatoes gently to cook evenly and develop a golden, crispy exterior.
- Prepare Garlic Rosemary Mash: After roasting, remove the garlic from the pan carefully (it will be soft and fragrant). Squeeze or mash the roasted garlic cloves and combine with fresh rosemary and about 1 tablespoon of olive oil to create a flavorful mash.
- Toss Potatoes in Garlic Rosemary: Toss the roasted potatoes in the garlic and rosemary mixture, coating them well. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to set the flavors.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the crispy, aromatic roast potatoes immediately as a perfect side dish.
Notes
- Using duck fat adds rich flavor and helps achieve maximum crispiness, but olive oil is a good substitute for a lighter option.
- Ensure potatoes are dry after boiling; moisture will prevent crisping during roasting.
- For extra garlic flavor, you can squeeze more roasted garlic on top when serving.
- This recipe is Whole30 compliant and Paleo-friendly due to use of natural fats and whole ingredients.
