If you’re a fan of crispy, golden edges and tender, buttery centers, then you’re in for a real treat with these melting potatoes. This dish takes potatoes to the next level by roasting them to perfection with just the right amount of butter, garlic, and herbs. Each bite is pure comfort—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, with a rich, savory flavor that will have you coming back for more. Trust me, these potatoes are about to become your new favorite side dish!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love Melting Potatoes
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving something comforting, these potatoes are perfect for any occasion. Here’s why they’re a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for almost any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or something fancier. Imagine serving them alongside a steak, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad—everything just tastes better with these potatoes.
Budget-Friendly: Potatoes are always an affordable option, and with a few extra ingredients like butter and herbs, you can create something that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: While the cooking process might take a bit of time, the steps themselves are simple and easy to follow. Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe will make you feel like a pro.
Flavorful: The combination of crispy edges and creamy centers, with the richness of butter and savory garlic, makes each bite a flavor-packed experience. These potatoes are like little nuggets of joy!
Crowd-Pleasing: These potatoes are guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, they’re a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make these irresistible melting potatoes:
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a buttery texture and creamy flavor, which makes them perfect for this dish.
- Butter: The key to achieving that golden, crispy texture on the outside and a rich, melt-in-your-mouth interior.
- Garlic: A must-have for that savory aroma and depth of flavor that really brings the dish together.
- Fresh Thyme: The earthy notes of thyme complement the richness of the potatoes and add a nice herbal touch.
- Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and helps the potatoes melt as they cook.
- Olive Oil: Helps crisp up the potatoes and enhances the flavor.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This temperature will help the potatoes cook evenly and get that perfect crispy exterior.
Prepare the Potatoes: Slice the potatoes into thick rounds, about 1-inch thick. You want them to hold up during cooking and become tender on the inside.
Sear the Potatoes: Heat a little olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the potato slices cut-side down and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
Add the Butter and Garlic: Flip the potatoes over, then add the butter, garlic, and thyme to the pan. Let the butter melt, and cook for another minute to let the garlic release its aromatic fragrance.
Add the Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth around the potatoes and bring it to a simmer. This helps the potatoes melt and absorb all that delicious flavor as they cook.
Roast to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the liquid has reduced, leaving the potatoes crispy and golden.
Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven and let the potatoes rest for a few minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a side dish, and watch how quickly they disappear from the table!
How to Serve Melting Potatoes
These potatoes are so versatile and can be paired with many dishes. Here are some great serving suggestions:
Grilled Meats: Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a hearty meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans for a well-rounded plate.
Fresh Salad: Balance out the richness of the potatoes with a fresh salad, like a simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you have one, use a cast iron skillet for the perfect sear and even heat distribution.
Double the Batch: If you’re feeding a larger crowd, feel free to double the ingredients and use a bigger skillet or two.
Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative to make this dish dairy-free.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
A1: Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture, but russet potatoes will also work. They’ll be a bit starchier, but still delicious!
Q2: Can I prep these potatoes ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can slice the potatoes and store them in water in the fridge to keep them fresh until you’re ready to cook them.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy again.
Q4: Can I make these potatoes in a different type of pan?
A4: Absolutely! You can use any oven-safe pan, but a cast iron skillet gives the best crispy result.
Q5: Can I freeze these potatoes?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the potatoes after cooking. Allow them to cool, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen.
Q6: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
A6: Yes! Vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Q7: Can I add cheese to these potatoes?
A7: Of course! Adding some grated parmesan or shredded cheddar on top during the last few minutes of roasting will take these potatoes to the next level.
Q8: What other herbs can I use besides thyme?
A8: Rosemary or oregano would be fantastic substitutions if you want to switch up the flavors!
Q9: Can I make these potatoes on the stovetop instead of the oven?
A9: Yes! After searing them on the stovetop, cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat until tender. You can also add a little more broth for extra steam.
Q10: Can I skip the searing step?
A10: Searing the potatoes gives them that crispy, golden crust, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and just bake them.
Conclusion
These melting potatoes are everything you want in a side dish—crispy, tender, buttery, and packed with flavor. Perfect for any meal, they’re sure to impress everyone at the table. Once you try them, you won’t want to go back to regular potatoes again!
Melting Potatoes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Magical roasted potatoes that are crispy on the outside and melt in your mouth on the inside, drenched in a tasty lemon and garlic sauce. Perfect for any meal!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds yellow-fleshed potatoes (such as Yukon gold), peeled and sliced 1 inch thick
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed and peeled
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).
- Toss the sliced potatoes in melted butter, thyme, salt, and pepper. Arrange them in a single layer on a metal baking pan.
- Bake on the top-middle rack for about 10-15 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown on both sides.
- Flip the potatoes again, then add the broth, lemon juice (if using), and garlic cloves. Roast for another 10 minutes until tender.
- Optional: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top while the potatoes are still hot from the oven for extra flavor.
Notes
- Option: Add crumbled feta cheese or fresh herbs as a garnish for extra flavor.
- Tip: For an even crispier texture, use a cast iron skillet instead of a baking pan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg