Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter

If you’re craving a side dish that hits all the right notes of crispy, buttery, and irresistibly flavorful, then look no further than this incredible recipe for Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter. This dish perfectly combines golden roasted potatoes with the rich, nutty aroma of browned butter, creating a sumptuous pairing that elevates any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, these roasted potatoes blend simplicity and decadence in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Flavor Boost: Browned butter instantly transforms simple potatoes into a gourmet experience with its deep, nutty taste.
• Perfect Crispy Texture: The roasting process ensures each potato chunk is crisp on the outside while staying tender inside.
• Versatile Side Dish: This recipe complements everything from weeknight roasts to holiday dinners.
• Quick Preparation: Minimal ingredients and easy steps make this a go-to for busy cooks.
• Customizable: You can easily swap herbs and spices to match your mood or menu.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding richness, crunch, or that signature golden color.

• Potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best balance of fluffiness and firmness.
• Unsalted Butter: Essential for browning to get that nutty, caramelized flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
• Olive Oil: Helps crisp up the potatoes and prevents them from sticking.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme add a fragrant herbal note that pairs wonderfully with browned butter.
• Salt and Pepper: Simply seasoning to taste enhances all the natural flavors.
• Garlic (optional): Adds a subtle, aromatic depth when roasted alongside the potatoes.

Variations for Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter

Feel free to personalize your Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs; the recipe is wonderfully adaptable and forgiving.

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat.
• Vegan Version: Substitute browned butter with browned vegan butter or olive oil infused with herbs.
• Lemon Zest: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest over the finished dish to brighten the rich flavors.
• Cheesy Twist: Toss in grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese just before serving to add a savory touch.
• Fresh Herb Variations: Swap rosemary and thyme with sage or oregano for new flavor profiles.

How to Make Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter

Step 1: Prepare and Cut the Potatoes

Begin by washing and drying your potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 1.5 inches, to ensure they roast evenly. Uniform pieces help achieve a consistent crispy exterior and soft interior.

Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the potato chunks. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are just starting to get tender but not fully cooked. This step jump-starts the cooking process and ensures fluffier potatoes inside.

Step 3: Brown the Butter

While the potatoes parboil, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it foams and then turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove it from the heat to prevent burning and set aside.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes well and gently toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and the fresh herbs of your choice. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, then roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway to encourage even browning.

Step 5: Combine with Browned Butter

As soon as the potatoes come out of the oven, drizzle the browned butter all over them and give everything a gentle toss so the butter coats every crisp edge. This final step delivers that signature rich flavor punch that makes this dish unforgettable.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter

• Use Room Temperature Potatoes: This helps them cook more evenly when parboiling and roasting.
• Don’t Skip Parboiling: It’s essential for creating the soft center beneath a crispy crust.
• Brown Butter Carefully: Watch closely and remove from heat as soon as it turns amber to avoid bitterness.
• Roast on a Hot Baking Sheet: Preheat your baking sheet in the oven to help the potatoes crisp quickly on contact.
• Use Fresh Herbs: They add brightness and complexity that dried herbs can’t match.

How to Serve Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter

Garnishes

Top your roasted potatoes with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, freshly chopped parsley, or a dusting of Parmesan cheese to add a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

These Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the potatoes in a rustic cast-iron skillet right from the oven for a warm, inviting presentation or portion them into small ramekins as individual servings to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor but may lose some crispness.

Freezing

Although best fresh, you can freeze cooked roasted potatoes, but they are likely to become soft after thawing. To freeze, spread on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a hot oven or air fryer to restore their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! Yukon Gold and red potatoes are ideal, but russets and fingerlings work as well; just adjust cooking times slightly as needed.

What’s the difference between browned butter and regular melted butter?

Browned butter is cooked until the milk solids caramelize, giving it a nutty, deeper flavor compared to plain melted butter.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter substitute or olive oil browned with garlic and herbs as an alternative to browned butter.

How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?

Parboil them, use high heat when roasting, don’t overcrowd the pan, and toss with enough oil to coat well.

Is it necessary to add fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs bring a bright aroma and flavor that dried ones can’t fully replicate, but if unavailable, dried herbs work as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

Making Roasted Potatoes with Browned Butter is like discovering a new favorite comfort food that feels both fancy and homey at the same time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a side dish that will impress your family and friends with its crispy texture and luscious buttery aroma. So grab your potatoes, brown your butter, and get ready for a delicious experience you’ll want to make again and again!

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