Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Extra crunchy on the outside & fluffy in the middle, these Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are the perfect side for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, holiday feast, or a simple weeknight dinner, these potatoes bring a delightful flavor and texture that will impress everyone at the table. The combination of fresh rosemary and garlic adds a unique twist, making this dish stand out among traditional sides.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Texture: The potatoes are crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy inside, creating a perfect contrast that delights every bite.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this dish with minimal effort and time.
- Versatile Side Dish: These roast potatoes pair well with virtually any main course, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
- Whole30 Approved: Following Whole30? This recipe fits perfectly into your meal plan without compromising on taste.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The addition of rosemary and garlic elevates the flavor profile, making these potatoes unforgettable.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 easier and more efficient. Gather these essential kitchen items before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large roasting pan
- Large stock pot
- Colander
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Large roasting pan: This ensures even cooking and allows for ample space for all the potatoes to crisp up nicely.
- Large stock pot: Perfect for boiling the potatoes without crowding them, leading to better results.
- Colander: Essential for draining the potatoes thoroughly after boiling to achieve that crispy exterior.
- Fork: Use it to mash the roasted garlic for an even spread of flavor throughout the dish.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 4 pounds yellow potatoes – peeled and cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt (plus extra to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ cup duck fat (substitute olive oil, beef tallow, ghee or avocado oil)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
For Flavoring
- 1 whole head garlic (top trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (around 2 sprigs)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (substitute grass-fed butter)
- ¼ teaspoon flakey sea salt (for finishing)
How to Make Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450F. Place a large, empty roasting pan inside as it heats up. This helps create a hot surface for the potatoes.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch. Add them to a large stock pot and cover with cold water. Add 2 tablespoons of kosher salt and baking soda:
1. Set over high heat.
2. Bring to a boil and cook until just fork-tender, about 25 minutes.
3. Drain thoroughly in a colander and let them dry completely.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
Carefully remove the hot roasting pan from the oven:
1. Add duck fat and allow it to melt.
2. Gently shake the dried potatoes in the colander to roughen their edges.
3. Carefully add them into the hot roasting pan.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper; toss gently.
5. Nestle in the head of garlic, cut-side down, then return it to the oven.
6. Cook for 55-60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes until deeply golden brown.
Step 4: Add Garlic & Rosemary Mixture
After roasting:
1. Remove garlic; push out individual cloves into a bowl.
2. Combine roasted garlic cloves with chopped rosemary and olive oil; mash together using a fork.
3. Toss this mixture with potatoes in the roasting pan evenly.
Step 5: Finish Roasting
Return the pan to the oven:
1. Cook an additional 5 minutes until rosemary is fragrant and garlic is lightly toasted.
2. Taste for seasoning; adjust with flakey sea salt if needed.
3. Transfer potatoes to a serving bowl and enjoy!
With these steps, you’ll have deliciously crispy roast potatoes ready for any meal!
How to Serve Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic are versatile and can elevate any meal. Their crunchy exterior and fluffy interior make them an excellent side dish for various occasions.
With Roasted Meats
- Perfect Pairing: Serve these potatoes alongside roasted chicken or beef for a hearty meal.
- Gravy Delight: Drizzle some of your favorite gravy over the potatoes for added flavor.
As a Salad Topping
- Crunchy Addition: Add crispy roast potatoes on top of leafy greens for a warm potato salad.
- Flavor Boost: Toss in some cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette to enhance the dish.
With Dips
- Savory Dip: Enjoy these potatoes with a garlic aioli or herb dip for an appetizer.
- Cheesy Option: Pair them with a creamy cheese dip for a delightful snack during gatherings.
On a Charcuterie Board
- Board Element: Include crispy roast potatoes as part of your charcuterie spread.
- Essence of Flavor: Their unique taste complements cured meats and cheeses beautifully.

How to Perfect Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Achieving the perfect crispy roast potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish is a hit every time.
- Use High-Starch Potatoes: Choose yellow or Russet potatoes for the best texture and taste.
- Rough Up the Edges: Gently shake the drained potatoes in the colander to create rough edges, which will crisp up nicely during roasting.
- Hot Fat is Key: Preheat the fat in your roasting pan until it’s sizzling before adding the potatoes for that perfect crunch.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the potatoes out evenly in the pan to allow them to brown properly.
- Toss Periodically: Stirring every 20 minutes helps achieve even browning and crispiness throughout.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Adding rosemary at the end infuses fresh flavor without burning it during cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Pairing side dishes with your crispy roast potatoes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delightful options to consider.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp – Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter complement the flavors of rosemary beautifully.
- Sautéed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans tossed with lemon zest add freshness to your plate.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a slightly bitter contrast that balances well with roasted potatoes.
- Grilled Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil make for a light and flavorful side.
- Balsamic Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots glazed with balsamic vinegar offer a delightful sweet-and-sour element alongside the savory potatoes.
- Cauliflower Steaks – Thick-cut cauliflower seasoned and roasted adds texture without overwhelming flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic can be straightforward, but some common mistakes may hinder your results.
- Not preheating the roasting pan – Failing to preheat the pan can lead to soggy potatoes. Always heat your roasting pan while the oven warms up.
- Overcrowding the pan – Clustering potatoes too closely can prevent them from crisping up. Give them space on the pan for proper roasting.
- Skipping the roughing-up step – Not shaking the potatoes in the colander can result in less crispy edges. Roughing them up helps create a crunchy texture.
- Underseasoning – Neglecting to season adequately can make your potatoes bland. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Not using high enough heat – Cooking at a lower temperature will not achieve that perfect crispy exterior. Always roast at a high temperature like 450F for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Allow the potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
- Place in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They last for about 3 months.
Reheating Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 400F and spread potatoes on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, checking frequently. This method may not keep them crispy.
- Stovetop – Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for approximately 5-7 minutes until warmed and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic.
How do I make Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 extra crispy?
To ensure maximum crispiness, make sure to rough up the potato edges after boiling and use enough oil when roasting.
Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?
Yes! You can substitute rosemary with herbs like thyme or sage for different flavor profiles.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yellow or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture, but you can also use Russet potatoes for extra fluffiness.
Can I prepare these roast potatoes in advance?
You can prep them by cutting the potatoes ahead of time, but it’s best to roast them just before serving for optimal crispiness.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic are not only delightful but also versatile enough to complement various dishes. Feel free to customize with other herbs or spices based on your taste preferences. Try this recipe for your next meal; you won’t be disappointed!

Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately eight people 1x
Description
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are the ultimate side dish that promises to elevate any meal. With their extra crunchy exterior and fluffy, tender interior, these potatoes are a flavor sensation. Infused with aromatic rosemary and savory garlic, they not only stand out but also complement a variety of main courses, from hearty roasts to fresh salads. Perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare and adheres to Whole30 guidelines without sacrificing taste. Each bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will impress your guests or family.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds yellow potatoes
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup duck fat (or olive oil)
- 1 whole head garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Flakey sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F with a large roasting pan inside.
- Rinse potatoes under cold water; boil in salted water until fork-tender (about 25 minutes).
- Drain and let dry; shake in the colander to roughen edges.
- Carefully add hot duck fat to the roasting pan, then add potatoes and season.
- Nestle in trimmed garlic head, roast for about 55–60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes.
- After roasting, mash garlic cloves with rosemary and olive oil; mix with potatoes.
- Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg