There’s something truly comforting about a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a masterpiece. Picture this: a golden-brown crust that crackles under your fork, revealing slices of tender, flavorful potatoes infused with fragrant herbs. That’s the magic of crispy pan potatoes, and I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia as I remember family dinners spent gathering around the table, savoring every bite.
This potato bake isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of home-cooked goodness. I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those afternoons where the kitchen becomes a sanctuary, filled with the aroma of melted butter and fresh herbs. With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you can create a dish that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, these crispy pan potatoes are versatile enough to complement any meal. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring a touch of warmth and flavor back to your kitchen!
Why are Crispy Pan Potatoes a must-try?
Simplicity at its best: This recipe requires just a few rustic ingredients, focusing on the natural flavor of the potatoes.
Irresistible texture: The golden, crispy top layer contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy interior, creating a blissful bite.
Herb-infused goodness: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves elevate the flavor profile, bringing warmth and aromatic charm to your table.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect as a side dish, they’re guaranteed to win over family and friends at any gathering.
Versatile: Whether paired with meats, fish, or as a vegetarian delight, these potatoes complement any dish.
Make the switch from fast food to homemade hospitality with this delightful recipe that will transform your meals!
Crispy Pan Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• 1.5 kg waxy potatoes – choose varieties like Charlotte for the best texture.
• Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage, bay leaves) – these herbs provide aromatic flavor and freshness to your crispy pan potatoes.
For the Butter
• 75 g unsalted butter – melting this over the prepared potatoes gives them a rich, decadent taste that makes every bite irresistible.
Indulge in the simple pleasure of these crispy pan potatoes and enjoy the warm embrace of home-cooked comfort food!
How to Make Crispy Pan Potatoes
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Preheat the oven to 200ºC / 180ºC fan / gas 6. Start with a hot oven to ensure your potatoes will crisp up beautifully, creating that mouthwatering golden crust we all adore.
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Boil the potatoes in a large pan of well-salted, boiling water for 3 minutes. You want them just tender but not fully cooked; this step gets the cooking process started on the right foot.
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Drain well and steam dry the potatoes on kitchen paper. This allows excess moisture to escape, helping to achieve that perfect crispy finish when baked.
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Arrange the potato slices in handfuls in the pan. Pack them tightly for even cooking and make sure they stand upright, allowing each slice to reach its crispy potential.
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Tuck the fresh herbs in among the potatoes. Their delightful aroma will infuse the dish, enhancing the flavor profile with each bite.
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Melt the unsalted butter and then drizzle it generously over the potatoes. This step adds a rich, indulgent taste that will make your crispy pan potatoes simply irresistible.
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Season well with salt and pepper, then cook in the oven for 1 hour or until the top is nice and crisp and the potatoes are cooked through. Keep an eye on them for that gorgeous golden color!
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Serve immediately to savor the best texture and flavor. These crispy pan potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, perfection on your plate!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Pan Potatoes?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that will complement the rich, buttery flavor of these crispy delights.
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Garlic Roasted Chicken: The tender, juicy chicken brings savory depth, perfectly balancing the crispy texture of the potatoes.
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Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green side adds a healthy, crunchy contrast, making every bite refreshing and colorful.
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Beef Stew: A hearty beef stew enveloped in a rich gravy harmonizes beautifully with the crispy pan potatoes, soaking up all the flavors.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, tangy crunch of coleslaw adds brightness, cutting through the richness of the potatoes and rounding out the meal beautifully.
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Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tangy, the balsamic glaze enhances the earthy flavors of the potatoes while providing a lovely pop of color.
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Fresh Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a crispness that contrasts with the warm, crispy potatoes.
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Spicy Aioli: A dollop of spicy aioli for dipping brings a flavorful kick that elevates each crispy bite to a new level of deliciousness.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream rounds out this comforting meal perfectly, leaving everyone with a sweet memory.
Crispy Pan Potato Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your crispy pan potatoes even more exciting!
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Cheesy Delight: Add a layer of grated cheese, like Gruyère or cheddar, before baking for a melty, savory touch. The cheese creates a delicious, gooey contrast to the crispy edges.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to add a bit of heat. It brings a vibrant burst of flavor to each bite and will perk up your taste buds beautifully.
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Garlic Infusion: Toss in minced garlic along with the herbs for a robust flavor boost. Garlic’s savory notes pair perfectly with the creamy potatoes, enhancing the overall taste.
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Nutty Flavor: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts over the top before serving. The nuts bring an unexpected crunch that elevates the dish.
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Creamy Variation: Swap out some melted butter for olive oil and a dash of heavy cream to make them richer. This combination results in an ultra-decadent treat that’s hard to resist.
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Herb Upgrade: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or chives for a refreshing twist. These herbs add a lovely brightness, making the dish perfect for spring gatherings.
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Zesty Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the potatoes before serving for a bright, zesty finish. The citrus notes will contrast beautifully with the savory flavors.
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Smoky Flavor: Mix in smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke to infuse a rich, smoky flavor. This unique addition gives your crispy pan potatoes a delightful barbecue flair.
Embrace these variations, and let your culinary creativity shine as you adapt this beloved recipe to suit your taste and mood!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Pan Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover crispy pan potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They will soften in texture but can be reheated to restore some crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. These can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking tray and cover loosely with foil. Bake at 180ºC / 160ºC fan for about 15-20 minutes to help regain crispiness.
Room Temperature: Allow warm crispy pan potatoes to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing to maintain their texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Crispy Pan Potatoes
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Charlotte create the best texture. Avoid starchy types, which can become mushy.
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Pre-heat the Oven: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated. This helps achieve that golden, crispy top layer that makes crispy pan potatoes so irresistible.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange potato slices tightly but ensure they’re in a single layer. This allows for even cooking and helps prevent steaming.
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Steam Dry Thoroughly: After boiling, make sure to drain and let the potatoes steam dry. Excess moisture can hinder that perfect crispiness.
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Generous Butter Drizzle: Don’t be shy with the unsalted butter! This not only adds flavor but also contributes to the crusty texture of your crispy pan potatoes.
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Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Oven temperatures can vary; check on your potatoes during the last 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Embrace these tips and elevate your crispy pan potatoes to perfection!
Make Ahead Options
These crispy pan potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and arrange the potatoes a day in advance. Simply prepare them through the steaming phase, then refrigerate them tightly covered to prevent browning. This way, the flavors meld beautifully (thanks to the herbs) without compromising texture. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle with melted butter, season, and pop them in the oven for about 1 hour. This means you can enjoy delicious, golden-brown potatoes with minimal effort on busy weeknights, making home-cooked meals feel like a breeze!
Crispy Pan Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for crispy pan potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best results, go for waxy potatoes like Charlotte. They hold their shape well and provide that perfect texture. Avoid starchy potatoes as they can become too soft and mushy during cooking.
How should I store leftover crispy pan potatoes?
To keep your crispy pan potatoes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They will lose some of their crunchiness, but you can revive them by reheating.
Can I freeze crispy pan potatoes?
Yes, you can! After baking, let the potatoes cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What’s the best way to reheat crispy pan potatoes?
For the tastiest results, preheat your oven to 180ºC / 160ºC fan. Place the potatoes on a baking tray and cover them loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, checking for that sought-after crispiness!
Can my pets enjoy this dish?
While your furry friends may be curious, it’s best to keep crispy pan potatoes away from them. The butter and herbs may not sit well with their digestion, and potatoes in excessive amounts aren’t ideal for pets.
What common mistakes should I avoid?
One of the biggest missteps is not boiling the potatoes long enough. Boil them for about 3 minutes to get them just tender before baking. Also, ensure they are well-drained and steamed dry to achieve that lovely crispy texture in the oven!
Crispy Pan Potatoes: Your New Favorite Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200ºC / 180ºC fan / gas 6.
- Boil the potatoes in a large pan of well-salted, boiling water for 3 minutes.
- Drain well and steam dry the potatoes on kitchen paper.
- Arrange the potato slices in handfuls in the pan.
- Tuck the fresh herbs in among the potatoes.
- Melt the unsalted butter and then drizzle it generously over the potatoes.
- Season well with salt and pepper, then cook in the oven for 1 hour.
- Serve immediately to savor the best texture and flavor.