Introduction to Crispy Potato Roast
There’s something undeniably satisfying about homemade dishes, especially when it comes to side favorites like a crusty, crispy potato roast. The layers of golden potatoes and shallots, combined with a drizzle of melted butter and olive oil, create a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen and invites everyone to gather around.
Why Homemade Recipes Are Worth the Effort
In today’s fast-paced world, cooking from scratch is an excellent way to unwind and express creativity. Research shows that people who engage in home cooking often feel more connected to their food and enjoy improved well-being. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, cooking at home can even promote healthier eating habits. Plus, this crispy potato roast is perfect for impressing family and friends, especially during holiday gatherings or special occasions.
When you invest your time in creating a dish like this, you’re not just preparing a meal – you’re crafting an experience. Just imagining that first bite of crispy potato goodness makes your efforts more than worthwhile. So grab those russet potatoes and let’s get cooking! For more inspiration, check out Martha Stewart’s collection of delicious sides.

Ingredients for Crispy Potato Roast
The essentials for a delectable dish
Creating the perfect crispy potato roast starts with high-quality ingredients that work together to achieve that delightful crunch and rich flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: This adds richness and helps achieve that irresistible golden color.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: A touch of olive oil brings a unique flavor and aids in crisping.
- 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled: The russet variety is key for that fluffy inside and crispy exterior.
- 4 shallots, thickly sliced lengthwise: Shallots provide a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- Coarse salt: A must for seasoning; it enhances all the flavors.
- ½ to 1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes (optional): For a bit of heat, this option can elevate your dish.
- 8 sprigs thyme: Fresh thyme adds an earthy aroma that pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes.
Gather these ingredients and get ready to impress with a stunning crispy potato roast! For more cooking inspiration, check out Martha Stewart's site.
Preparing Crispy Potato Roast
Cooking a crispy potato roast is not just about following a recipe—it's about creating a dish that brings joy to your table. Let’s take this step-by-step to ensure your potatoes turn out golden and delicious.
Preheat and Mix Your Oils
First things first—preheat that oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a small bowl and mix together 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter with 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. This combination will not only add flavor but also help achieve that perfect crisp. The butter provides richness, while the olive oil promotes browning.
Chop and Slice the Potatoes
Now, onto the potatoes! You’ll need 4 pounds of russet potatoes, which are excellent for roasting. Make sure you peel them first, then use a mandoline slicer to cut them into very thin slices. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking. Keeping the slices in stacks makes it easier to arrange in your baking dish later. If you don't have a mandoline, a sharp knife works just fine; just try to keep those slices as thin as possible.
Arrange the Ingredients
Take a round 9-inch baking dish and brush the bottom with some of your butter and oil mixture. This prevents sticking and adds flavor. Start layering the sliced potatoes vertically in the dish, which gives a lovely presentation. Tuck 4 thickly sliced shallots throughout the layers for a sweet, caramelized touch. Don’t forget to sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt and optional red-pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Finally, brush the top with the remaining butter mixture. Who can resist that buttery goodness?
Start Baking
Now, pop your dish into the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will start to soften, and you’ll begin to smell something incredible wafting through your kitchen. Pro tip: if you want to keep an eye on them, a few peeks wouldn’t hurt, but try not to open the oven door too often.
Add Herbs for That Aromatic Touch
After about 1 hour and 15 minutes, it’s time to add your fresh thyme. Simply nestle in 8 sprigs of thyme across the top, which will infuse the potatoes with an aromatic flavor. Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully crisp and golden. The added experience of the herbs will make this crispy potato roast irresistible!
In the end, you'll have a stunning dish perfect for sharing or elevating any meal. Enjoy the process and savor the flavors—cooking should be fun! Want to take it a step further? Try using different herbs or even swapping in onions for shallots to mix things up. Happy roasting!

Variations on Crispy Potato Roast
Alternative herbs to try
If you’re looking to switch things up with your crispy potato roast, consider using different herbs that complement the dish beautifully. Fresh rosemary or oregano can add a fragrant touch that livens up the rich flavors. A sprinkle of sage could also bring a warm, earthy depth to your potatoes. Experiment and see what resonates with your taste buds!
Substitutions for shallots
Should you find yourself without shallots, don't worry! Thick slices of yellow or white onion can be a fantastic substitute, offering a mild sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the crispy, golden potatoes. Feel free to even use leeks for a sophisticated twist—just slice them thinly and nestle them among the potato slices for a delicious variation that enhances your crispy potato roast.
Cooking Tips for Crispy Potato Roast
Ensuring the perfect crispiness
To achieve that irresistibly crispy potato roast, start by soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, promoting crispiness. Remember to dry the slices thoroughly before arranging them in the baking dish! A good tip is to use high heat during the last phase of baking to really get that golden crust. Brushing with the butter-oil mixture increases flavor while aiding in crisping.
Storing leftovers the right way
If you have any delicious leftover crispy potato roast, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a 350°F oven or an air fryer for that beloved crispy texture—perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for dinner!

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Potato Roast
Ideal mains to accompany your crispy delight
The crispy potato roast is a delightful centerpiece that elevates any meal. It pairs beautifully with a range of hearty mains. Consider serving it alongside:
- Herb-Coated Beef Tenderloin With Roasted-Garlic Aioli: The rich, savory flavors complement the crispy textures perfectly.
- Slow-Baked Citrus Salmon With Carrots: This dish's fresh, zesty notes balance the richness of the potatoes.
- Roast Turkey With Herb Butter: A classic pairing, the herb-infused turkey enhances the delightful flavors of the roast.
Imagine hosting a casual dinner or an elegant holiday feast—these pairings will impress your guests and satisfy diverse palates. It’s all about creating a symphony of flavors that celebrate each bite of your crispy potato roast!
Time Breakdown for Crispy Potato Roast
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Getting your ingredients ready is a breeze! Simply peel, slice, and mix together your butter and olive oil.
Cooking time: 1 hour 50 minutes
This includes two stages: an initial bake followed by additional time to create that perfect crispy top.
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
In just a little over two hours, you’ll have a stunning crispy potato roast that’s destined to impress at your table.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider mixing up your crispy potato roast with variations like swapping in different herbs or using unique toppings. Want to find the perfect main dish? Check out Roast Turkey With Herb Butter to round out your meal!
Nutritional Facts for Crispy Potato Roast
Calories
A single serving of crispy potato roast typically contains around 240 calories. This makes it a flavorful choice that fits well into a balanced meal while still being indulgent.
Carbohydrates
Each serving offers approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates, primarily sourced from the potatoes. This provides a satisfying energy boost, perfect for fueling your day.
Fiber
You can expect about 4 grams of fiber per serving from this delightful dish. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help you feel fuller for longer, making your holiday meal even more enjoyable.
For a deeper dive into healthy eating, check out resources like the Mayo Clinic or Harvard Health Publishing!
FAQs about Crispy Potato Roast
What type of potatoes is best for roasting?
For the crispy potato roast, russet potatoes are your best bet! Their high starch content gives them a fluffy interior while developing a beautiful, crispy exterior. Alternatively, Yukon Gold potatoes can also work well, offering a creamier texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the roast?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Carrots, parsnips, or even brussels sprouts can complement your crispy potato roast beautifully. Just be sure to cut your vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking. Plus, adding herbs like rosemary or oregano can elevate the flavor!
How do I reheat leftovers without losing crispiness?
To maintain that crispy texture, reheat your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F or in an air fryer. This method works wonders and brings back that delightful crunch. If you’re in a pinch, a skillet over medium heat can work as well, just be sure to flip them occasionally for even reheating.
For more delicious potato inspirations, check out this guide on great potato recipes!
Conclusion on Crispy Potato Roast
Creating a crispy potato roast at home not only elevates your meal but also fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. There's unmatched satisfaction in serving a homemade side dish that can steal the spotlight, making every dinner feel special. Consider pairing this standout recipe with festive mains or even casual weeknight meals for a treat!
For more tips on how to enhance your dining experience, check out Martha Stewart for expert culinary advice and inspiration.

Crispy Potato Roast
Equipment
- round 9-inch baking dish
- Mandoline
- oven
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 pounds russet potatoes peeled
- 4 shallots thickly sliced lengthwise
- coarse salt
- 0.5 to 1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes optional
- 8 sprigs thyme
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, combine butter and oil.
- Brush bottom of a round 9-inch baking dish with some butter mixture. Using a mandoline, slice potatoes very thinly crosswise.
- Keep the slices together in stacks as you cut them so that you can arrange them easily in the dish.
- Arrange potato slices vertically in dish. Wedge shallots throughout. Sprinkle with salt and red pepper flakes (if using); brush with remaining butter mixture.
- Bake for 1 ¼ hours. Add thyme and bake until potatoes are cooked through with a crisp top, about 35 minutes more.





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