Garlic Butter Potatoes

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Golden, crispy, and coated in rich garlic butter—these Garlic Butter Potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish. Whether you’re serving them up with a hearty steak, roasted chicken, or a simple green salad, these potatoes steal the show with their caramelized edges and tender, buttery centers. They strike a perfect balance of crispness and flavor, making them impossible to resist.

What makes this dish a household favorite is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and fresh herbs, you can create a side that feels restaurant-worthy yet is incredibly easy to whip up at home. Ideal for weeknight dinners, Sunday roasts, or special gatherings, Garlic Butter Potatoes are a reliable go-to whenever you want something satisfying and full of flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Potatoes Recipe

This recipe is all about big flavors with minimal effort. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps to get a dish that’s deeply savory and totally addictive. The garlic butter soaks into every crevice of the baby potatoes, while the crispy pan-seared edges bring texture and a bit of indulgence. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, which makes it a crowd-pleaser at any table.

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What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Garlic Butter Potatoes?

Baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe. Their waxy texture holds up well during roasting or pan-searing, and they become beautifully golden and crisp on the outside while staying buttery soft inside. Red potatoes can also be used, but avoid starchy types like Russets—they’ll fall apart and won’t crisp the same way.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Potatoes

Each ingredient in this dish has a purpose—from texture to flavor enhancement. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Baby Potatoes: These small spuds are perfect for slicing in half and crisping up evenly. Their creamy interior contrasts wonderfully with the crispy exterior.
• Unsalted Butter: Butter is the flavor base. It creates a golden crust and allows the garlic and herbs to shine.
• Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the butter with a deep, rich aroma and flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh, herby note to balance the richness.
• Olive Oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds its own smooth, slightly fruity flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the potatoes.
• Dried Herbs (thyme or Italian seasoning): Add complexity and warmth to the overall taste profile.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Halve the Potatoes

Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly, then slice them in half to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice golden surface when seared.

Step 2: Parboil for Tenderness

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and parboil the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes. This ensures they cook through without drying out when you crisp them later.

Step 3: Crisp in Oil and Butter

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and half of the butter. Add the drained potatoes cut side down and let them cook undisturbed until golden brown and crisp—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Infuse with Garlic Butter

Reduce the heat and stir in the minced garlic and remaining butter. Toss everything together gently to coat the potatoes in the fragrant garlic butter.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Just before serving, sprinkle in chopped parsley and a pinch of extra salt and pepper. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Potatoes

This recipe feeds about 4 people as a side dish and pairs beautifully with both simple and elegant mains. Serve them right from the skillet for that rustic appeal, or plate them up with a garnish of fresh herbs for dinner guests.

To store leftovers, let the potatoes cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to bring back their crispy texture—avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Potatoes?

Herb-Crusted Chicken

The savory, buttery potatoes are a perfect match for a juicy herb-crusted chicken breast.

Grilled Steak

The rich flavor and crispiness of the potatoes hold their own next to a smoky, charred steak.

Baked Salmon

Balance the richness of the garlic butter with the freshness of lemony baked salmon.

Roasted Vegetables

Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus for a hearty vegetarian meal.

Fried Eggs

Serve them for brunch with a couple of sunny-side-up eggs and toast on the side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Garlic Butter Potatoes in the oven instead of the skillet?

Absolutely! Roast them in the oven at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping once halfway through. You can add the garlic butter in the last 10 minutes to prevent it from burning.

Do I need to parboil the potatoes first?

Parboiling is recommended for even cooking and soft insides. It speeds up the process and gives you the best texture combo of crispy outside and tender inside.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, though fresh garlic has a deeper flavor. If using garlic powder, add it with the herbs during the final toss, so it doesn’t burn.

How do I reheat Garlic Butter Potatoes without losing crispiness?

Reheat them in a skillet with a little oil or butter over medium heat. Avoid microwaving, which softens the crispy edges.

Are Garlic Butter Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your seasonings and butter if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease.

For more tasty sides, check out our Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan and Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes for more cozy food ideas.

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