The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—just red potatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. But when roasted at high heat, these humble ingredients transform into something extraordinary. The potatoes develop a crisp, golden-brown exterior while remaining soft and fluffy inside, delivering that irresistible texture contrast in every bite.
This recipe is endlessly adaptable too. Toss in garlic cloves, rosemary sprigs, or fresh thyme before roasting for added depth of flavor. Serve it as a comforting side for anything from roast chicken to grilled vegetables. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a cozy family dinner, these roasted red potatoes always satisfy.
Full Recipe:
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3 pounds small red new potatoes, quartered
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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Optional: minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, or fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Place quartered red potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
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Sprinkle with salt and pepper, tossing again to ensure seasoning is evenly distributed.
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Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet, cut sides down.
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Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until potatoes are tender inside and golden brown and crisp on the edges.
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Remove from oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 179 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Why Roasted New Red Potatoes Deserve a Spot on Your Table
Roasted new red potatoes are one of those timeless, crowd-pleasing side dishes that manage to feel both rustic and refined. With their tender interior and irresistibly crispy edges, they pair effortlessly with nearly any main course—from juicy grilled steaks to delicate roasted vegetables. What makes this dish so special isn’t just its simplicity, but its ability to elevate an everyday dinner into something extraordinary. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting your culinary journey, roasted red potatoes are an easy win that can fit into weeknight dinners or holiday feasts alike.
What Are “New” Red Potatoes, and How Are They Different?
The term “new potatoes” refers to young, freshly harvested potatoes that haven’t been cured or stored for long periods. New red potatoes are small, round, and have thin, delicate skins that don’t need to be peeled. They have a waxy texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. Because they hold their shape well during cooking, they are ideal for roasting.
Unlike starchy varieties like russets, which tend to become fluffy and fall apart, red potatoes maintain a creamy, dense bite. This texture makes them especially suitable for high-heat roasting, which encourages a perfect golden crust while keeping the inside moist and tender. When quartered and tossed with simple ingredients like olive oil, salt, and pepper, they become a deliciously crisp and caramelized side dish that highlights the potato’s natural flavor.
The Magic of High-Heat Roasting
High-heat roasting is the secret weapon behind this dish’s crave-worthy texture. By cooking the potatoes in a hot oven (typically around 425°F), the moisture inside steams the flesh, while the exposed outer surfaces crisp up due to the direct heat. It’s a culinary balancing act that results in golden-brown, crispy potatoes that are not fried, but taste as indulgent as if they were.
The roasting process also intensifies the flavor of the potatoes. Natural sugars within the potatoes caramelize in the heat, which not only enhances their sweetness but also contributes to that beautifully browned exterior. And because red potatoes are lower in starch than other varieties, they crisp up beautifully without falling apart—making them ideal for this method.
How Versatile Is This Dish?
Extremely. One of the most appealing aspects of roasted new red potatoes is their versatility. They’re the kind of side that feels just as appropriate next to a hearty winter roast as they do at a summer barbecue. They can be dressed up with fresh herbs, garlic, or parmesan cheese, or kept minimal with salt and olive oil. Their simple profile makes them a neutral canvas for any flavor profile you’re working with.
You can easily modify this dish to suit various dietary needs. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly if you stick with plant-based seasonings. Adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill can give them a Mediterranean flair, while spices like smoked paprika or cumin can give them a southwestern twist. You can also add lemon zest and parsley for brightness, or finish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for complexity.
Pairing Ideas for Roasted Red Potatoes
These potatoes are a side dish superstar for a reason—they pair beautifully with a wide range of mains. Here are a few ideas to inspire your menu:
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Grilled or Roasted Meats: Think roast chicken, steak, pork tenderloin, or lamb chops. The crispy texture of the potatoes balances the juiciness of the meat.
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Seafood: Roasted salmon, grilled shrimp, or pan-seared cod benefit from the earthy richness of red potatoes.
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Vegetarian Options: Serve alongside grilled vegetables, a hearty lentil stew, or a mushroom stroganoff for a complete meatless meal.
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Salads: Leftover roasted potatoes can be tossed into a green salad or grain bowl for extra texture and flavor.
Why the Simplicity Works
There’s a quiet beauty in a recipe that relies on minimal ingredients. Olive oil, salt, and pepper may not sound groundbreaking, but when you use high-quality versions and apply them properly, they enhance rather than mask the potato’s natural flavor. The minimal seasoning allows the caramelized notes and creamy interior to shine through.
In an era where food trends can get overly complicated, there’s something refreshing about returning to the basics. This recipe is a reminder that good food doesn’t need to be fussy—it just needs to be prepared with care.
Tips to Nail the Perfect Roasted Potato
If you want to get that signature crispy finish, here are a few tried-and-true tips to elevate your roasted red potatoes every time:
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Cut Evenly: Quartering the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook at the same rate. Irregular sizes can lead to undercooked centers or over-crisped edges.
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Don’t Crowd the Pan: Overcrowding leads to steaming, not roasting. Use a large baking sheet and space the pieces out so air can circulate.
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Use Parchment Paper or a Preheated Pan: Lining your sheet pan with parchment helps prevent sticking. Alternatively, preheating the baking tray can give an extra boost of crispiness.
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Toss Thoroughly: Make sure each piece is evenly coated in oil and seasoning for consistent browning.
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Flip Once for Even Roasting: Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for the first half to develop that golden crust, then flip once midway through.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
Roasted red potatoes aren’t just a tasty side—they’re a visually appealing one too. Their golden crust and vibrant red skin look stunning on a serving platter, especially when garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary. For an extra pop, try sprinkling flaky sea salt or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.
If you’re serving guests or hosting a dinner party, these potatoes are a fantastic dish to prepare in advance. Roast them just before guests arrive and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive the crisp texture. They also work well as part of a buffet or potluck menu because they hold up nicely at room temperature.
Leftover Love: Creative Ways to Use Extras
Have leftovers? Don’t toss them—transform them! Roasted red potatoes are incredibly versatile for next-day meals. Here are a few creative ways to repurpose them:
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Breakfast Hash: Sauté with onions, bell peppers, and eggs for a hearty breakfast.
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Potato Salad: Chill and mix with a vinaigrette or creamy dressing, herbs, and mustard for a fresh take on potato salad.
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Taco or Burrito Filling: Add them to veggie tacos or wraps for texture and bulk.
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Soup Topping: Toss crispy potato chunks onto creamy soups like broccoli cheddar or butternut squash for a crunchy contrast.
Health Benefits of Red Potatoes
While potatoes often get a bad reputation in certain diet circles, they actually offer several health benefits—especially when roasted instead of fried. Red potatoes are high in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Their skin contains antioxidants and nutrients, so it’s a great idea to leave it on during preparation.
Additionally, roasting them with heart-healthy olive oil keeps things on the lighter side. There are no artificial ingredients, no deep frying, and no processed coatings—just whole food ingredients that nourish while they satisfy.
Conclusion: A Staple Worth Mastering
Roasted new red potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a staple that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire. They’re easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and never fail to impress. With a few simple techniques and a high-heat oven, you can transform basic ingredients into something that feels comforting, indulgent, and totally craveable.
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just need a quick side to complete a weeknight meal, roasted red potatoes always rise to the occasion. Once you master the method, you’ll find yourself returning to this reliable recipe again and again. It’s proof that some of the best dishes are also the simplest.