Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Extra crunchy on the outside and fluffy in the middle, Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are a delightful side dish for any occasion. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create an irresistible flavor that pairs well with just about anything. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes will surely impress your guests with their unique aroma and taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious potatoes without fuss.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of rosemary and garlic infuses the potatoes with an aromatic depth that enhances every bite.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any meal—from casual weeknight dinners to special holiday feasts.
- Whole30 Approved: Enjoy this dish guilt-free as it fits perfectly within the Whole30 dietary guidelines.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, everyone will love these roast potatoes!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your crispy roast potatoes, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Large stock pot
- Colander
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Roasting pan: Ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes for that perfect crispiness.
- Large stock pot: Ideal for boiling the potatoes, allowing them to cook evenly before roasting.
- Colander: Helps drain excess water from boiled potatoes, which is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
- Fork: Useful for mashing roasted garlic and mixing it with rosemary for added flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful crispy roast potatoes:
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
- 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 450°F by placing a large, empty roasting pan inside. This helps achieve maximum crispiness.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch. Place them in a large stock pot and cover with cold water. Add 2 tablespoons of kosher salt and baking soda. Set over high heat until boiling:
1. Cook until just fork-tender—about 25 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them dry completely.
Step 3: Prepare for Roasting
Remove the hot roasting pan from the oven:
1. Add duck fat and allow it to melt.
2. Shake the dried potatoes in the colander gently to rough up their edges.
3. Carefully add them to the roasting pan, season with salt and pepper, then toss gently.
Step 4: Roast the Potatoes
Nestle a head of garlic (cut-side down) amongst the potatoes:
1. Return the roasting pan to the oven.
2. Cook for about 55-60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Add Flavorful Toppings
Remove garlic from the pan:
1. Push out individual cloves into a bowl.
2. Mix in chopped rosemary and olive oil; mash together using a fork.
3. Toss this mixture with cooked potatoes in the roasting pan.
Step 6: Final Touches
Return the pan to the oven for an additional 5 minutes:
1. Ensure that rosemary is fragrant and garlic is lightly toasted.
2. Adjust seasoning with flakey sea salt as desired before serving.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy roast potatoes as a side dish that complements any meal!
How to Serve Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic are a delightful addition to any meal. Their crunchy texture and aromatic flavors make them a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains.
Pair with Roasted Meats
- Roast Chicken: The savory flavor of roast chicken complements the crispy potatoes perfectly.
- Grilled Steak: The richness of grilled steak matches the potatoes’ texture for an indulgent meal.
Enjoy with Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crisp greens balance the hearty potatoes well.
- Greek Salad: Bright vegetables and feta add freshness alongside the crispy potatoes.
Add to a Brunch Spread
- Eggs Benedict: These potatoes can serve as a hearty base for poached eggs and rich hollandaise.
- Avocado Toast: Top your toast with slices of crispy potatoes for added crunch.

How to Perfect Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Achieving the perfect crispy roast potatoes requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for yellow or Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture and optimal fluffiness.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Washing the potatoes removes excess starch, leading to extra crispiness during roasting.
- Preheat Your Pan: Heating the roasting pan ensures that the potatoes start cooking immediately, enhancing their crunch.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give each potato piece space in the pan to allow hot air to circulate, ensuring even browning.
- Toss Regularly: Turning the potatoes every 20 minutes helps achieve that golden-brown color all around.
- Finish with Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt after roasting enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Crispy Roast Potatoes pair excellently with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic provide a fresh contrast to the hearty potatoes.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter notes balance beautifully with the rich flavor of the potatoes.
- Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light, grain-based salad adds texture and complements the flavors well.
- Caramelized Carrots: Sweetness from caramelized carrots pairs nicely with the savory profile of roasted potatoes.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that is refreshing alongside crispy potatoes.
- Beet Salad: Earthy beets bring color and sweetness, making a lovely pairing on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using the right technique is crucial for achieving perfect Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using unpeeled potatoes: Leaving the skin on can make it difficult for the potatoes to crisp up. Always peel them for the best texture.
- Skipping the soaking step: Not rinsing and soaking the potatoes can result in a gummy texture. Soak them to remove excess starch for extra crispiness.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many potatoes in one pan can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Ensure they have enough space to brown evenly.
- Ignoring temperature settings: Cooking at a lower temperature will not produce crispy results. Preheat your oven to 450F for optimal roasting.
- Not tossing during cooking: Failing to toss the potatoes means they won’t cook evenly. Toss them every 20 minutes for perfect crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Oven: Preheat to 400F, spread on a baking sheet, and heat until hot and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, checking frequently; this may not keep them crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, tossing occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while yellow potatoes are ideal, you can also use russet or red potatoes for different flavors and textures.
How do I make these roast potatoes dairy-free?
Simply use duck fat or olive oil instead of any butter options mentioned in the recipe for a completely dairy-free dish.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
You can substitute dried rosemary, but reduce the amount by half as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can par-cook the potatoes ahead of time and finish roasting just before serving for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are not only delicious but also versatile enough to accompany any meal. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs or spices for an even more personalized touch!

Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. With their extra crunchy exterior and fluffy interior, these potatoes are infused with aromatic rosemary and garlic, creating a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your family and friends. Ideal for everything from casual dinners to special occasions, this Whole30-approved recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Serve them alongside roasted meats or fresh salads for a delightful culinary experience. Get ready to indulge in this simple yet delicious dish that will become a staple in your kitchen.
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 finely chopped fresh rosemary
- Flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F and place a large roasting pan inside.
- Rinse potatoes under cold water. Boil in a large stock pot with water, kosher salt, and baking soda until fork-tender (about 25 minutes).
- Drain and dry the potatoes in a colander.
- Remove the hot roasting pan from the oven, add duck fat, and let melt.
- Rough up potato edges in the colander, add them to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.
- Nestle the garlic head among the potatoes and roast for 55-60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes until crispy.
- Mix roasted garlic cloves with rosemary and olive oil; toss with potatoes before returning for an additional 5 minutes.
- Finish with flaky sea salt before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg