As the autumn leaves turn, I find myself transported to the comforting vibe of Thanksgiving preparations, filled with the crispy scent of Garlic Roast Potatoes wafting through the kitchen. There’s a unique joy in creating side dishes that not only enhance the turkey but also serve as the centerpiece of the meal itself. These Garlic Roast Potatoes are effortlessly simple to whip up, making them a star player among the 22 easy Thanksgiving side dishes I’ve gathered for you. Not only do they feature that crave-worthy crunch outside and fluffy goodness inside, but they also soak up gravy like a dream, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking to treat yourself and your loved ones to a comforting feast, these potatoes promise to impress! Curious about how to elevate your holiday table? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why Choose Garlic Roast Potatoes?
Crispy Perfection: The golden edges create an irresistible crunch that complements any dish.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and steps, you can focus on enjoying your time with family and friends.
Savory Flavor: Infused with rich garlic, these potatoes elevate the classic side dish to new heights.
Versatile Side Dish: Whether paired with turkey or served as a standalone snack, they’re a crowd favorite!
Gravy Lovers Rejoice: Their fluffy interior soaks up gravy beautifully, making each bite a flavor explosion.
Don’t miss out on trying these delightful Garlic Roast Potatoes and explore other options like Mashed Potatoes for a well-rounded Thanksgiving feast!
Garlic Roast Potatoes Ingredients
• Curious about the keys to this crowd-pleaser?
For the Potatoes
- Yukon Gold potatoes – Their creamy texture turns fluffy when roasted, making them perfect for soaking up any sauces.
- Garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic adds that aromatic punch that elevates the flavor profile.
- Olive oil – A drizzle of this richness ensures crispiness while providing healthy fats.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; choose sea salt for an extra touch.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground delivers a slight kick that balances the savoriness.
- Fresh rosemary – A sprinkle adds an earthy aroma, perfectly complementing the garlic.
For Serving
- Gravy – Make your roast potatoes glazed with rich gravy to amplify their deliciousness; essential for all gravy lovers.
- Chopped parsley – For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle a handful over the top before serving.
Give these Garlic Roast Potatoes a try, and watch them become a staple on your holiday table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Roast Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that desired crispy exterior on your Garlic Roast Potatoes. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and prepare the baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, then cut them into evenly-sized chunks—about 1 to 2 inches each. This ensures they cook uniformly and achieve that fluffy, tender interior. Once cut, place them in a large pot of cold water and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Step 3: Parboil the Potatoes
Once boiling, cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes until they are just tender but not fully cooked. To check, pierce a piece with a fork; it should go in with slight resistance. After parboiling, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them steam dry for a few minutes to help achieve crispiness later.
Step 4: Toss with Seasonings
Transfer the steamed potatoes back into the pot and add 4 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently toss until all pieces are well-coated with oil and seasonings, ensuring every chunk of these Garlic Roast Potatoes is flavorful.
Step 5: Roast the Potatoes
Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, use a spatula to turn them for even browning. Look for a beautiful golden color on the edges, which indicates they are perfectly roasted.
Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs
In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary over the potatoes. This will infuse them with earthy flavor and aroma. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-brown; a delicious crunch is what you want!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re golden brown and crispy, remove the Garlic Roast Potatoes from the oven. Transfer to a serving platter and, if desired, drizzle warm gravy over the top. Finish with a handful of chopped parsley for a touch of color. These delightful potatoes are ready to impress your guests!

Expert Tips for Garlic Roast Potatoes
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for roasting due to their creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t achieve the desired fluffiness.
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Don’t Skip Parboiling: Lightly boil the potatoes before roasting to ensure they cook evenly and turn fluffy inside. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, so aim for tender but firm.
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Evenly Size Cuts: Cut the potatoes into uniform 1-2 inch chunks to promote even cooking and crispy edges. Lopsided pieces can lead to inconsistent texture.
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Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet prevents sticking and ensures an easy clean-up—no one wants to wrestle with stuck potatoes later!
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Toss Gently: When seasoning, toss the potatoes delicately so they don’t break apart. Each piece should be well-coated with garlic and oil for that delicious flavor in every bite.
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Watch While Roasting: Keep an eye on the potatoes as they roast; timing may vary based on your oven. Look for a nice golden brown color—this means they are perfectly crispy!
Enjoy making your Garlic Roast Potatoes and pair them with other dishes from our collection of easy Thanksgiving side dishes!
Garlic Roast Potatoes Variations & Substitutions
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Garlic Roast Potatoes and tailor them to your family’s tastes!
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Sweet Potato Twist: Replace Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and beautiful orange hue.
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Herb Medley: Substitute rosemary with fresh thyme or oregano for a different herbal aroma that adds freshness.
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Spicy Kick: Spice up your potatoes with a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to give them a nice heat.
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Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes in the last 5-10 minutes of roasting for a savory, cheesy crust.
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Garlic Lovers Delight: Double the amount of garlic for an extra aromatic punch; roasted garlic becomes incredibly sweet and caramelized.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use vegetable broth instead of olive oil for those looking to keep it lower in fat while still adding flavor.
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Citrus Zest: Add fresh lemon or orange zest before serving for a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the potatoes.
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Loaded Style: Top your finished Garlic Roast Potatoes with crispy bacon bits and green onions for a satisfying and decadent side dish.
Feel free to explore these variations, and if you’re looking for additional options, you might also love our recipe for Creamy Polenta with Mushrooms for an exciting side twist!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Roast Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones during the holiday rush! You can parboil the potatoes and toss them with garlic and olive oil up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the seasoned potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to ensure they remain fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread them on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious, homemade Garlic Roast Potatoes that are just as delightful as if they were made from scratch on the day!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Roast Potatoes
- Room Temperature: Garlic Roast Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh; however, if left out, they can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before they should be refrigerated for safety.
- Fridge: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain texture, avoid stacking the potatoes too tightly.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked garlic roast potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until warmed through and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. They’ll taste just as delightful as the first time!
What to Serve with Crispy Garlic Roast Potatoes?
As the flavors of Garlic Roast Potatoes fill your kitchen, it’s time to think about the perfect sides that will complete your Thanksgiving table.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic dish offers a smooth contrast to the crispy potatoes, making for delightful textural variety. Your guests will be torn between which one to load on their plates!
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Homemade Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of this sauce beautifully balances the rich garlic flavors, adding a refreshing pop that enhances each bite of your roast potatoes.
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Mac and Cheese: Rich, gooey, and utterly comforting, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with the garlic notes of your potatoes; cheese lovers rejoice!
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Glazed Carrots: Sweet and buttery, their tender texture complements crispy Garlic Roast Potatoes, balancing the savory elements of the meal with a touch of sweetness.
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Sautéed Mushrooms: Umami-rich and fragrant, these mushrooms sautéed in garlic butter add depth to your meal, creating an inviting symphony of flavors on your plate.
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Pumpkin Biscuits: Fluffy and subtly spiced, they add warmth to your table while complementing the savory notes of your roast potatoes. Plus, who can resist a bit of biscuit goodness?
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Cheddar Biscuits: Buttery cheddar biscuits bring a cheesy twist that pairs delightfully with your Garlic Roast Potatoes, providing another layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
With these scrumptious pairings, your dinner table will be a dazzling array of flavors and textures that truly celebrate the season!

Garlic Roast Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Garlic Roast Potatoes?
Absolutely, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes! Their creamy texture transforms into a fluffy, perfect roasty bite when cooked—ideal for soaking up sauces. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can end up too dense.
How should I store leftover Garlic Roast Potatoes?
To maintain their crispiness, stored leftover Garlic Roast Potatoes should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are not tightly stacked to prevent mushiness.
Can I freeze Garlic Roast Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, place your cooked Garlic Roast Potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat Garlic Roast Potatoes?
For the best results, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the frozen or refrigerated potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until they are warmed through and regain that delicious crispiness.
Do Garlic Roast Potatoes pair well with gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! Garlic Roast Potatoes are naturally gluten-free as they contain no gluten ingredients. They make a fantastic addition to any gluten-free Thanksgiving spread, ensuring your guests will enjoy every last bite!
What should I do if my Garlic Roast Potatoes aren’t crispy enough?
If your potatoes didn’t crisp up as expected, next time try ensuring they’re parboiled just until tender—this helps create that fluffy texture inside. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as proper air circulation around each piece is essential for crispiness.

Crispy Garlic Roast Potatoes That Your Guests Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare the baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Wash and peel 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, cutting them into 1 to 2-inch chunks.
- Parboil the potatoes for 10-15 minutes until just tender, then drain and steam dry.
- Toss the potatoes with minced garlic, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway.
- In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle chopped rosemary over the potatoes.
- Serve hot, optionally drizzled with gravy and garnished with chopped parsley.

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