3-Ingredient Garlic Potatoes

Section: Perfect Appetizers and Side Dishes

These garlic potatoes combine just a few simple ingredients to deliver a crisp exterior with a fluffy interior. Potatoes are cut into even chunks, tossed in olive oil, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper, then roasted to golden perfection. The seasoning creates a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender. Ideal for busy weeknights or festive occasions, this dish complements a variety of main courses with its easy preparation and cozy flavors.

A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Brought to You By iman
Last updated on Wed, 28 Jan 2026 07:39:18 GMT
A white plate with a bowl of garlic potatoes. Bookmark
A white plate with a bowl of garlic potatoes. | imaninthekitchen.com

These 3ingredient garlic potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and packed with warm, simple flavors that feel cozy any time of year. They come together easily with minimal ingredients and make a wonderful side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread, these potatoes never disappoint.

I first made these on a whim when I didn’t have many ingredients left and now they are a family favorite. Even guests ask for the recipe because of how satisfyingly simple and delicious they are.

Ingredients

  • Potatoes: choose large starchy ones for fluffiness inside these form a comforting base
  • Olive oil: extra virgin provides richness and helps create that golden crust pick one with a fruity aroma
  • Italian herbs: a versatile blend that adds fragrant herbal notes choose fresh or good quality dried herbs
  • Garlic powder: offers intense savory flavor without the fuss of peeling fresh garlic
  • Salt: essential for balancing flavors enhances the natural taste of the potatoes
  • Black pepper: adds gentle heat and complexity freshly ground brings the best aroma and freshness

Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan:
Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s hot enough to roast the potatoes to golden perfection. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. A heavy light-colored sheet helps the potatoes brown evenly without burning.
Prep and cut the potatoes:
Scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peel them if you prefer a smoother texture but leaving the skin on adds nutrients and crunch. Cut into uniform chunks about one to one and a half inches so they cook evenly. Rinse the cut chunks under cold water to remove excess starch then drain thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel which helps them crisp up instead of steaming.
Season the potatoes:
Place the dried potato chunks into a large bowl then drizzle with all the olive oil so every piece is lightly coated. Sprinkle on the Italian herbs garlic powder salt and black pepper. Toss well making sure every surface is evenly seasoned—this step is key to building flavor and forming a crispy crust during roasting.
Roast until golden and tender:
Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet leaving little space between pieces to ensure even browning. Roast for twenty minutes then use a spatula to flip the pieces so new sides get direct heat contact. Continue roasting for fifteen to twenty minutes more until the potatoes are deep golden and a fork easily pierces through the centers signaling tenderness.
Taste adjust and serve:
Sample a piece while still warm and add a pinch more salt or pepper if desired. Serve immediately so the edges stay crisp and the inside remains fluffy and soft.
A white plate with a bowl of garlic potatoes.
A white plate with a bowl of garlic potatoes. | imaninthekitchen.com

These potatoes remind me of cozy family dinners when I first served them for a casual Sunday lunch. The simplicity made it approachable and the flavor kept everyone coming back for seconds. Garlic powder is one of those magical pantry staples that instantly lifts a dish and I never run out of it.

Storage Tips

Store leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat retain crispiness by warming in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes rather than microwaving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap Italian herbs with dried rosemary or thyme for a different herbal profile. Fresh minced garlic can replace garlic powder but add it earlier in the cooking to avoid burning. Instead of potatoes try sweet potatoes chopped the same size for a sweeter twist.

Serving Suggestions

These garlic potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled chicken steak or roasted vegetables. Top them with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. They also make a great hearty addition to a vegan bowl with sautéed greens and tahini dressing.

A plate of garlic potatoes.
A plate of garlic potatoes. | imaninthekitchen.com

Enjoy these simple garlic potatoes as an easy, crowd pleasing side that reheats beautifully. They are quick to make and endlessly adaptable.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I ensure the potatoes roast evenly?

Cut potatoes into uniform chunks about 1 to 1½ inches and spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet, allowing space between pieces for even browning.

→ Can I use different kinds of potatoes?

Yes, starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for getting that crisp outside and fluffy inside texture.

→ What is the best way to achieve crisp edges?

Coating potatoes evenly with olive oil and roasting at a high temperature (425°F) helps form a delicious crispy crust.

→ Can I customize the herbs used for seasoning?

Absolutely, Italian herbs are suggested but rosemary, thyme, or your favorite blends can be substituted to change flavor.

→ Should the potatoes be peeled before cooking?

Peeling is optional; leaving skins on adds texture and nutrients, while peeling provides a smoother bite.

3-Ingredient Garlic Potatoes

Golden roasted potatoes coated with garlic and herbs, crisp on edges and tender inside.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
35 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Brought to You By: iman

Recipe Category: Appetizers & Sides

Skill Level: Great for Beginners

Cuisine Origin: Mediterranean

Portions: 4 Serves

Diet Preferences: Vegan-Friendly, Vegetarian-Friendly, Gluten-Free, No Dairy

What You'll Need

→ Vegetables

01 4-5 large potatoes, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks

→ Oils and Fats

02 4 tablespoons olive oil

→ Herbs and Spices

03 2 teaspoons Italian herbs
04 3 teaspoons garlic powder
05 ½ teaspoon salt
06 ½ teaspoon black pepper

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Set the oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for even roasting and easy cleanup.

Step 02

Scrub potatoes thoroughly; peel if a smoother texture is desired. Cut into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch chunks. Rinse under cold water, drain well, and pat dry with a clean towel.

Step 03

Place dried potato chunks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly. Toss thoroughly to coat all pieces.

Step 04

Arrange potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, spacing pieces slightly apart. Roast for 20 minutes, then turn each piece using a spatula. Continue roasting for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown and fork-tender.

Step 05

Taste a roasted potato and add additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately to enjoy crisp edges and fluffy interiors.

Additional Notes

  1. Using a light-colored baking sheet promotes even browning, and tossing the potatoes in oil and seasoning helps develop a crisp exterior.

Must-Have Tools

  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula