Garlic Butter Potatoes

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I’ve always believed that the simplest ingredients make the most unforgettable dishes. These Garlic Butter Potatoes are exactly that—crispy, golden-brown baby potatoes tossed in sizzling garlic butter and fresh herbs. They’re savory, comforting, and come together in a single skillet, making them a weeknight staple and a dinner party favorite all at once.

Every time I serve these, the pan is practically licked clean. Whether I’m pairing them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a big leafy salad, they hold their own and often steal the show. It’s that perfect balance of creamy insides, crispy edges, and bold garlicky flavor that keeps me coming back to this recipe over and over.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Potatoes Recipe

These potatoes are the kind of side dish that tastes way more indulgent than the effort it takes to make them. They’re ready in under 30 minutes and only require a handful of pantry staples. The garlic butter soaks into each golden-brown crevice, and the fresh herbs brighten the whole dish. They’re vegetarian-friendly, kid-approved, and endlessly customizable.

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What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Garlic Butter Potatoes?

I prefer baby yellow or baby red potatoes for this dish because they have thin, tender skins and a creamy interior that crisps up beautifully. However, fingerling potatoes or even halved Yukon golds work just as well. The key is to keep the pieces uniform in size so they cook evenly.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a quick fix—but fresh is always best for bold flavor. Don’t have parsley? Swap it for fresh chives, thyme, or even dill. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter. Want a little extra flavor kick? Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a pinch of smoked paprika.

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Ingredients for this Garlic Butter Potatoes Recipe

Baby potatoes (yellow or red) – Their tender skin and creamy flesh make them perfect for crisping up while staying soft inside.

Unsalted butter – The base of the garlic butter; rich and velvety. Use unsalted to better control the salt level in your dish.

Garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter and coats the potatoes with robust, savory flavor.

Olive oil – Helps to crisp the potatoes while keeping the butter from burning.

Fresh parsley – Adds a burst of color and freshness at the end.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.

Optional: Paprika or chili flakes – For a bit of heat or smokiness, depending on your preference.

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Step 1: Parboil the Potatoes

Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Simmer for about 10 minutes or until just fork-tender. Drain and let them steam dry in the colander for a few minutes—this step helps achieve that crisp exterior.

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Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

While the potatoes are drying, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil to prevent burning, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.

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Step 3: Crisp the Potatoes

Add the parboiled potatoes to the skillet, cut-side down. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to develop a golden crust, then flip and continue cooking until crispy all over. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.

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Step 4: Finish with Herbs and Seasoning

Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and your choice of optional spices. Stir in the chopped parsley and toss to coat every piece with that garlicky, buttery goodness. Serve hot and sizzling.

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How Long to Prepare the Garlic Butter Potatoes

Prep Time: Parboiling and cutting the baby potatoes takes about 10–15 minutes. This step is key to achieving that creamy center and crispy exterior. While they’re boiling, you can prep the garlic and parsley to streamline things.

Cooking Time: After parboiling, you’ll need another 10–15 minutes to finish them in the skillet. That includes crisping the potatoes and stirring in the garlic butter and herbs. Altogether, you’re looking at around 25–30 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Potatoes

• Let the potatoes steam dry after boiling—this helps them crisp better in the skillet.
• Don’t stir too often while crisping; allow them to develop that golden crust.
• Use a mix of butter and oil to avoid burning the butter.
• Fresh garlic adds much more flavor than pre-minced or powdered.
• Add the herbs at the end to preserve their freshness and color.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: This traps moisture and makes the potatoes soggy.
• Undercooking the potatoes: If they’re not parboiled long enough, they won’t crisp up properly.
• Burning the garlic: It becomes bitter and ruins the flavor—sauté it gently.
• Skipping the drying step: Wet potatoes won’t get crispy.
• Using too little fat: You need enough butter and oil to coat the potatoes and help them brown.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Potatoes?

1. Grilled Steak

A juicy ribeye or flank steak pairs beautifully with the richness of garlic butter potatoes.

2. Lemon Herb Chicken

Bright, zesty chicken balances the savory potatoes perfectly.

3. Crispy Salmon

The buttery potatoes complement the crispy skin and tender flakes of salmon.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Add some color and variety by serving these alongside carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts.

5. Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A crisp, tangy salad cuts through the richness and keeps the meal light.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Allow the potatoes to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispiness.

Freezer: While technically you can freeze them, the texture may suffer. If needed, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag or container. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven or skillet.

Meal Prep Tip: Cook them ahead and crisp them up just before serving for the best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Cholesterol: 20mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the crispiest potatoes?

Let them steam dry after boiling, don’t crowd the pan, and cook them undisturbed until golden.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Parboil and refrigerate the potatoes. Then sauté them in garlic butter when ready to serve.

What other herbs can I use?

Try rosemary, thyme, or even dill for different flavor profiles.

Can I use regular potatoes?

Yes, just cut them into small chunks. Yukon golds or red potatoes are best.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! It contains no gluten ingredients and is naturally gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Potatoes are the kind of side dish that you’ll end up making on repeat. They’re quick, incredibly flavorful, and go with just about anything. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday table, these crispy, golden bites of garlicky goodness are sure to steal the spotlight. Simple ingredients, easy prep, and big flavor—what more could you ask for?

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