The Best Crispy Roast Potatoes Ever

Introduction

Have you ever wondered what truly makes the best crispy roast potatoes? Many home cooks struggle to achieve that perfect golden crust with a fluffy interior. The secret lies in a combination of technique, timing, and the right ingredients. In this post, we’ll unlock the secrets to The Best Crispy Roast Potatoes Ever — guaranteed to impress at any meal.

Ingredients List

2 pounds (900g) Yukon Gold or Maris Piper potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
4 tablespoons vegetable oil or goose fat
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)
2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

Substitutions:

Use olive oil for a healthier option, though it may not get quite as crispy.
Try sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist, but adjust cooking times.

Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Boiling Time: 10 minutes
Roasting Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes

This recipe’s roasting time is about 20% longer than average to ensure maximum crispiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Parboil the potatoes

Place peeled and chopped potatoes in a pot of cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes until the edges are soft but the center is still firm. Drain well.

Step 2: Rough up the potatoes

Return drained potatoes to the pot and shake them gently for 1-2 minutes to roughen the edges—this helps create a crispy surface during roasting.

Step 3: Preheat the oven and oil

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour oil or goose fat into a large roasting pan and heat it in the oven for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Roast the potatoes

Carefully add the potatoes to the hot oil in a single layer. Toss gently to coat. Scatter garlic and herbs on top if using. Roast for 45 minutes, turning every 15 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve immediately

Remove from oven, season with extra salt if desired, and serve piping hot.

Tip: Using goose fat or duck fat instead of oil elevates flavor and crispiness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. 150g)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	28g
Protein	3g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	300mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Swap vegetable oil for olive oil to increase healthy fats.
Use sweet potatoes or cauliflower florets for lower-carb options.
Reduce fat amount and roast with parchment paper, though crispiness may reduce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roast chicken, beef, or lamb for a classic Sunday dinner.
Serve alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad for balance.
Use leftovers in breakfast hash with eggs and herbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the parboil: Essential for fluffy interiors.
Not preheating the oil: Adds to crispy crust.
Crowding the pan: Causes steaming, not roasting, which reduces crispiness.
Using waxy potatoes: Choose starchy or all-purpose for best texture.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store cooled roast potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Re-crisp in a hot oven or air fryer rather than microwave to retain texture.
Freeze: Best eaten fresh; freezing can alter texture.

Conclusion

The best crispy roast potatoes combine simple techniques with quality ingredients for golden, crunchy exteriors and fluffy centers. Try this recipe to elevate your roast dinners and impress your family and friends. Share your experience and subscribe for more delicious recipes!