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 a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or enjoying a simple family meal, these potatoes bring flavor and crunch. Enhanced with aromatic rosemary and roasted garlic, they elevate your dining experience while adhering to Whole30 guidelines.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Texture: The contrast of crispy edges and fluffy insides makes every bite a delight.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a gourmet side dish.
- Versatile Pairing: These potatoes complement a wide variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
- Easy Preparation: The straightforward instructions make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Whole30 Approved: Enjoy guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into your Whole30 lifestyle.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large stock pot
- Roasting pan
- Colander
- Fork
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large stock pot: Ideal for boiling the potatoes evenly, ensuring they reach the right texture before roasting.
- Roasting pan: Provides enough space for the potatoes to crisp up without overcrowding.
- Colander: Helps drain excess moisture from boiled potatoes, crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.
- Fork: Useful for mashing roasted garlic and mixing flavors together seamlessly.
Ingredients
Extra crunchy on the outside & fluffy in the middle, these Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary & Garlic are the perfect side for any occasion.
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 to heat up as well.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch.
1. Add them to a large stock pot.
2. Cover with cold water and add 2 tablespoons kosher salt and baking soda.
3. Set over high heat and bring to a boil.
4. Cook until just fork-tender, about 25 minutes total.
5. Drain and let them dry fully in the colander.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
- Remove the preheated roasting pan from the oven.
- Add duck fat and allow it to melt completely.
- Gently shake the potatoes in the colander to roughen their edges.
- Carefully add them to the roasting pan.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper; toss gently to coat.
- Nestle in the head of garlic cut-side down and return it to the oven.
Step 4: Toss During Roasting
Cook for 55-60 minutes total, tossing every 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy all over.
Step 5: Flavor with Garlic and Rosemary
- Remove garlic from pan; push out individual cloves into a bowl.
- Combine roasted garlic cloves with chopped rosemary and olive oil; mash together using a fork.
- Add this mixture to roasted potatoes in the pan; toss well.
- Return pan to oven for an additional 5 minutes until fragrant.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste for seasoning; adjust with flaky sea salt as desired before transferring your beautifully roasted potatoes to a serving bowl.
Enjoy these deliciously crispy roast potatoes as part of your next meal!
How to Serve Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic are versatile and can enhance any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pairing with Proteins
- Grilled Chicken – The crispy potatoes complement the juicy flavors of grilled chicken.
- Roasted Pork Loin – This dish pairs beautifully with the savory notes of roasted pork.
- Grilled Salmon – The freshness of salmon balances the richness of the potatoes.
Adding Freshness
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy texture.
- Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy and tangy side that works well with potatoes.
- Herbed Yogurt Sauce – A dollop of herbed yogurt brings creaminess and flavor to each bite.
Incorporating Seasonal Vegetables
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their slight bitterness enhances the flavor profile of the potatoes.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.

How to Perfect Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
To achieve the best results with your crispy roast potatoes, follow these essential tips.
- Choose the Right Potatoes – Opt for starchy varieties like yellow or Russet potatoes for maximum fluffiness.
- Preheat Your Roasting Pan – Heating the pan ensures a crispy exterior right from the start.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Give your potatoes space to brown evenly; use two pans if needed.
- Shake for Edges – Roughing up potato edges creates more surface area for crispiness when roasting.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
These crispy roast potatoes make an excellent side dish. Here are some suggestions for other sides that complement them well.
- Grilled Asparagus – Lightly charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor that complements the potatoes.
- Zucchini Noodles – These offer a low-carb alternative that pairs nicely with hearty roast potatoes.
- Cauliflower Rice – A great way to add veggies while keeping it light and fluffy alongside crispy potatoes.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with quinoa or rice, they provide a colorful presentation on your table.
- Balsamic Roasted Carrots – Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with savory roast potatoes.
- Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad brings crunch and acidity, balancing rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
-
Skipping the soaking step: Failing to rinse the potatoes can lead to gummy, less crispy results. Always soak them in cold water to remove excess starch.
-
Not preheating the pan: Adding potatoes to a cold pan prevents them from getting crispy. Make sure your roasting pan is hot before adding the potatoes.
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Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many potatoes in one layer can steam them instead of roasting. Spread the potatoes out evenly for better browning.
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Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasoning is crucial. Don’t skip this step; add flakey sea salt as needed for flavor enhancement.
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Not using enough fat: A lack of fat can result in dry potatoes. Use a sufficient amount of duck fat or your chosen substitute for that perfect crunch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Allow the potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can last up to 2 months.
Reheating Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes but know that they may lose their crispiness.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a bit of oil over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my roast potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you soak and dry the potatoes thoroughly before roasting. Using hot fat also helps create that crunchy exterior.
Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with herbs like thyme or sage for different flavor profiles while still keeping it Whole30 compliant.
What type of potatoes work best?
Yellow potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture, but you can also use Russet or red potatoes if preferred.
Can Crispy Roast Potatoes be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them earlier in the day, store them properly, and then reheat when ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, these roasted potatoes are perfect for meal prep as they store well and can complement various meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are not only delicious but versatile enough for any meal. Their extra crunch paired with aromatic garlic and rosemary makes them a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices!

Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are the ultimate side dish, boasting a delightful contrast of extra crunch on the outside and fluffy perfection within. Infused with aromatic rosemary and sweet roasted garlic, these potatoes elevate any meal, whether it’s an elegant dinner party or a cozy family gathering. Simple to prepare with just a handful of ingredients, they fit seamlessly into your Whole30 lifestyle while satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Perfectly paired with grilled meats or fresh salads, this versatile dish is sure to become a favorite on your table.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds yellow potatoes
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup duck fat (or substitute)
- 1 whole head garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
- Flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Place a large roasting pan inside to heat.
- Rinse potatoes in cold water. In a stock pot, boil potatoes with salt and baking soda until fork-tender (about 25 minutes). Drain and dry.
- In the hot roasting pan, melt duck fat. Roughen potato edges in the colander, then add them to the pan with seasoning and garlic.
- Roast for 55-60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove garlic, mash with rosemary and olive oil, mix into potatoes, and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg