Perfect roast potatoes

Perfect roast potatoes feature a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, achieved by parboiling and roasting. This simple dish uses just three ingredients and is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

06 Feb 2026
Cook time 62 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

10 potatoes
1 dash salt
3 tbsp olive oil
Perfect roast potatoes

Roast potatoes are a classic side dish that perfectly complement any meal. The key to getting them just right lies in the combination of crispy exterior and fluffy interior. By following this recipe, you'll achieve the perfect roast potatoes that are so delicious, they might even steal the spotlight from the main course.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes thoroughly.
- Cut the potatoes into even-sized chunks, roughly the size of a golf ball. This will ensure they roast evenly.
3. Parboil the Potatoes:
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water.
- Add a dash of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. You don’t want to fully cook the potatoes, just soften them a bit.
4. Drain and Rough Up:
- Drain the potatoes in a colander. Let them sit for a minute to allow the steam to escape (this helps to create a fluffy texture on the outside).
- Give the colander a good shake to rough up the edges of the potatoes. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
5. Oil the Potatoes:
- In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes. Toss them gently to ensure each chunk is well-coated with oil.
6. Roast the Potatoes:
- Spread the oiled potato chunks on a large baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer and not touching each other. This allows them to roast evenly and get crispy.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until they are golden and crispy on the outside, turning them halfway through the cooking time so they brown evenly.
7. Season and Serve:
- Once the potatoes are beautifully roasted, take them out of the oven.
- Sprinkle an additional dash of salt over the potatoes if desired.
- Serve immediately while they are hot and enjoy your perfect roast potatoes!

And there you have it – perfect roast potatoes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These will undoubtedly become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Perfect roast potatoes FAQ:

What is the ideal baking time for roast potatoes?

The ideal baking time for roast potatoes at 200°C (400°F) is approximately 45-50 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.

How do I know when my roast potatoes are done?

Roast potatoes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check if they are tender by inserting a fork; it should go in easily.

Can I substitute olive oil with another oil for roasting?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other oils like vegetable oil or canola oil. Just keep in mind that different oils may impart slightly different flavors.

How should I store leftover roast potatoes?

Store leftover roast potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, put them in a hot oven to crisp them up again.

Can I make roast potatoes without peeling them?

Yes, you can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients. Just make sure to wash the potatoes thoroughly before cutting and roasting.

Tips:

- Choose the right potatoes: Floury or starchy potatoes such as Russet or Maris Piper work best, as they get fluffier inside and crispier outside.

- Parboil before roasting: Boil the potatoes for about 10 minutes before roasting. This helps to soften the insides and create rough edges on the surface, which turn crispy when roasted.

- Shake them up: After parboiling, drain the potatoes and shake them in the pot to rough up the edges. This helps to create more surface area for crispiness.

- Get the oil hot: Preheat the olive oil in the roasting pan before adding the potatoes. This ensures that they start to crisp up as soon as they hit the pan.

- Season generously: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper. Seasoning at different stages – before roasting and halfway through – can enhance the flavor.

Nutrition per serving

10 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 4.10g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 4.20g
Sugar 1.64g
Fat 4.23g

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