Name: Garlic Butter Potatoes: 1 Amazing Side Dish Secret
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (optional)

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Garlic Butter Potatoes has been my go-to side dish for years, ever since I first tried them at a cozy bistro. I remember thinking, “How can something so simple taste so incredibly good?” The aroma of sizzling garlic and butter instantly hooked me. Now, whenever I need a quick and delicious accompaniment, I turn to this easy garlic butter potato side dish. There’s just something magical about the crispy exterior giving way to a fluffy, tender inside, all coated in that irresistible garlicky goodness. Trust me, you’ll want to make these homemade garlic butter potatoes every week. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Potatoes

I know you’re going to fall head over heels for these Garlic Butter Potatoes, just like I did. They’re not just a side dish; they’re a revelation!

They offer an incredible flavor profile with savory garlic and rich butter, making every bite a delight.
This easy garlic butter potato side dish requires minimal prep and cooks up in a flash, perfect for busy weeknights.
You’ll appreciate that they are surprisingly budget-friendly, using staple ingredients you likely already have.
They’re a fantastic way to get some wholesome vegetables onto the dinner table in a way everyone enjoys.
This easy garlic butter potato side dish is incredibly versatile, pairing wonderfully with almost any main course.
Plus, they deliver that satisfying crispy texture on the outside with a wonderfully creamy interior.

Ingredients for Homemade Garlic Butter Potatoes

To make these irresistible Garlic Butter Potatoes, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. I love how a few fresh items can transform into such a flavorful dish!

1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved – I find baby potatoes cook more evenly and get crispier.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter – The star of our show, providing that rich, buttery flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil – This helps prevent the butter from burning and adds a nice sheen.
4 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic is essential for truly amazing garlic butter potatoes; don’t skimp here!
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – For a vibrant pop of color and fresh, herbaceous flavor, making them delicious garlic herb butter potatoes.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A classic seasoning that adds a subtle kick.
1/4 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (optional) – If you like a touch of warmth or a little spice, this is a great addition.

How to Make Garlic Butter Potatoes

Making these pan-fried garlic butter potatoes is incredibly straightforward, even for a beginner cook. I promise you’ll find the process simple and the results absolutely delicious. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly crispy, flavorful potatoes ready in no time.

Step 1: First, thoroughly wash your baby potatoes. Then, go ahead and halve each one. This helps them cook faster and provides more surface area for that lovely crispiness.
Step 2: Place the halved potatoes into a pot of cold, salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let them cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not mushy. You want them just cooked through.
Step 3: Once tender, carefully drain the potatoes using a colander. Here’s a crucial tip for crispy results: let the potatoes sit in the colander for a few minutes to steam dry. This removes excess moisture, which is key for achieving that golden crust.
Step 4: While the potatoes are drying, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat on your stovetop. Add the unsalted butter and olive oil to the pan. Let the butter melt completely, swirling it around to coat the bottom of the skillet.
Step 5: Stir in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 to 2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. This step infuses the butter and oil with amazing garlic flavor, which is essential for these garlic butter potatoes.
Step 6: Now, add the parboiled potatoes to the skillet, making sure to place them cut-side down. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook them in two batches. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until you see a beautiful golden-brown crust forming. This creates those irresistible pan-fried garlic butter potatoes we all love.
Step 7: Flip the potatoes and continue cooking for another few minutes, stirring occasionally, until all sides are nicely browned and crispy. You’ll hear them sizzle and smell that incredible aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 8: Season the crispy potatoes generously with salt and black pepper. If you’re using paprika or chili flakes, add them now for an extra layer of flavor and a hint of warmth.
Step 9: Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Toss everything together until the herbs are evenly distributed. Serve your homemade garlic butter potatoes immediately and enjoy every single bite!

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Garlic Butter Potatoes

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that guarantee perfect crispy garlic butter potatoes every single time. These expert tips will elevate your potato game and ensure they’re always a hit!

Always parboil your potatoes until just fork-tender, then let them steam dry completely before adding them to the skillet. This removes excess moisture, which is crucial for crispiness.
Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give your potatoes space to breathe and brown. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook them in batches.
Use a combination of butter and olive oil. The olive oil has a higher smoke point, preventing the butter from burning while still providing that rich flavor.
Add your minced garlic towards the end of the cooking process, or just before adding the potatoes, to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
Finish with fresh herbs. I find that stirring in fresh parsley or chives at the very end brightens the entire dish.

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Potatoes?

The real secret lies in the parboiling and steam-drying steps. This simple garlic butter potato preparation ensures a fluffy interior, while the pan-frying creates an unbeatable crispy exterior. I always make sure they’re super dry before they hit the hot skillet.

Can I make Garlic Butter Potatoes ahead of time?

You can definitely prep the potatoes ahead! Boil and dry them, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, just proceed with the pan-frying steps for fresh, hot garlic butter potatoes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Potatoes?

To avoid soggy potatoes, never skip the steam-drying step after boiling. Also, ensure your pan isn’t overcrowded, which can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Finally, keep an eye on the garlic; it can burn quickly, ruining the flavor of your delicious garlic butter potatoes.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Potatoes

These flavorful Garlic Butter Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any meal. I love serving them as a hearty side dish, and here are a few of my favorite pairings:

For a classic comfort meal, pair these crispy potatoes with roasted chicken or a juicy steak. The rich garlic butter perfectly complements savory meats.
They make an excellent accompaniment to grilled fish or shrimp, adding a burst of flavor and satisfying texture. Think of them as a more exciting alternative to plain rice or pasta.
You can also transform these into delicious garlic butter potato wedges by cutting larger potatoes into wedges before parboiling and pan-frying. They’re fantastic alongside burgers or as a snack with a dipping sauce.
Don’t forget breakfast or brunch! These potatoes are a delicious addition to a plate of scrambled eggs and bacon, or as part of a savory breakfast bowl.

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Potatoes

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of your favorite dishes, and these delicious Garlic Butter Potatoes are no exception. Here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving (this recipe yields 4 servings):

Calories: 220
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 200mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and preparation methods used for your Garlic Butter Potatoes.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Potatoes

If you happen to have any leftover Garlic Butter Potatoes (which is rare in my house!), proper storage is key to enjoying them later. I always let them cool completely first. This prevents condensation and keeps them from getting soggy.

Once cooled, transfer your leftover Garlic Butter Potatoes to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

To reheat, my favorite method is to spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. A quick pan-fry also works wonders for bringing back that lovely crisp texture. This ensures your Garlic Butter Potatoes taste almost as good as fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Potatoes

What kind of potatoes are best for garlic butter potatoes?

I always recommend baby potatoes, like red or Yukon Gold, because their thin skins crisp up beautifully and their creamy texture holds up well to cooking. However, you can also use larger potatoes cut into 1-inch pieces. The key to making delicious garlic butter potatoes is consistency in size for even cooking.

How do I get my garlic butter potatoes extra crispy?

Achieving extra crispy garlic butter potatoes comes down to a few tricks I’ve learned. First, parboil them until just tender, then let them steam dry completely. Second, don’t overcrowd your skillet; cook in batches if necessary. Finally, ensure you’re using enough fat (butter and olive oil) and let them cook undisturbed on each side to develop that golden crust. This is crucial for how to make garlic butter potatoes with that perfect crunch.

Can I make garlic butter potatoes in the oven instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! While I love the pan-fried method for its speed and crispiness, you can certainly make oven-roasted garlic butter potatoes. After parboiling and drying, toss them with the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and seasonings. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender. It’s another fantastic way to enjoy this easy side dish.

Can I add cheese to my garlic butter potatoes?

Yes, and it’s delicious! For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over your garlic butter potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking, or right after you remove them from the heat. The residual heat will melt the cheese beautifully, creating amazing garlic parmesan butter potatoes that are incredibly savory and satisfying.

Variations of Garlic Butter Potatoes You Can Try

Once you master the classic pan-fried Garlic Butter Potatoes, you might find yourself wanting to experiment. I love how adaptable this dish is, allowing for endless delicious variations to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Spicy Garlic Butter Potatoes: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. You can also finish with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra fiery twist to your Garlic Butter Potatoes.
Garlic Parmesan Butter Potatoes: This is one of my absolute favorites! Simply toss the finished potatoes with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts lightly into the hot potatoes, creating an incredibly savory and satisfying side dish.
Rosemary Garlic Butter Potatoes: Infuse your butter and oil with fresh rosemary sprigs while sautéing the garlic. Remove the sprigs before adding the potatoes, or chop them finely and add them with the parsley for wonderful aromatic Garlic Butter Potatoes.
Vegan Garlic Butter Potatoes: Easily make this dish plant-based by swapping unsalted butter for your favorite vegan butter alternative. The result is just as rich and flavorful, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious potatoes.