Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Extra crunchy on the outside and fluffy in the middle, these Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are the perfect side for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just enjoying a cozy night in, these potatoes will elevate your meal. Their delightful flavor and satisfying texture make them a standout dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Crunch: The combination of duck fat and high heat creates an extra-crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
- Versatile Side Dish: These roast potatoes pair well with nearly any main course, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes.
- Whole30 Approved: Enjoy this recipe guilt-free as it fits perfectly within Whole30 guidelines, making it a healthy option for any meal.
- Flavorful Infusion: The addition of garlic and rosemary brings an aromatic twist that takes these potatoes to the next level.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process seamless. Having everything ready will ensure that your Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 turn out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Large stock pot
- Colander
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Roasting pan: A sturdy roasting pan is crucial for achieving even cooking and browning. It allows air to circulate around the potatoes for perfect crispiness.
- Large stock pot: This is essential for boiling the potatoes evenly before roasting. A larger pot ensures all pieces cook uniformly.
- Colander: Use this to drain excess water from boiled potatoes. Allowing them to dry thoroughly helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Fork: Mashing roasted garlic with a fork is easy and effective, ensuring even distribution of flavor throughout the dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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
– 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
Place a large, empty roasting pan in the oven and preheat to 450°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch.
- Add them to a large stock pot and cover with cold water.
- Add 2 tablespoons kosher salt and baking soda.
- Set over high heat; bring to a boil.
- Cook until just barely fork-tender, about 25 minutes total.
- Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them dry fully.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
- Remove the preheated roasting pan from the oven; add duck fat.
- Heat until melted.
- Gently shake potatoes in the colander to rough up edges.
- Carefully add them to the roasting pan; season with salt and pepper.
- Nestle in the head of garlic, cut-side down.
- Return pan to oven; cook for 55–60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes.
Step 4: Mix Garlic and Rosemary
- Remove garlic; push out individual cloves into a bowl.
- Combine roasted garlic cloves, chopped rosemary, and olive oil in the bowl.
- Mash together with a fork until smooth.
- Add this mixture back into roasting pan; toss with potatoes.
Step 5: Final Touches
Return roasting pan to oven for an additional 5 minutes or until rosemary is fragrant and garlic lightly toasted. Taste for seasoning; adjust with flaky sea salt as desired. Transfer crispy roast potatoes to a serving bowl and enjoy!
How to Serve Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic make a delightful side dish that can enhance any meal. Their crunchiness pairs beautifully with various flavors, making them versatile for different occasions.
With a Protein
- Roasted Chicken – Serve alongside juicy roasted chicken for a comforting meal.
- Grilled Steak – The crispy texture complements the tenderness of grilled steak perfectly.
- Baked Salmon – Pair with baked salmon for a light yet satisfying dinner.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Fresh, steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch to your plate.
- Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad balances the richness of the crispy potatoes.
For Special Occasions
- Holiday Dinners – These potatoes are an elegant addition to any festive table.
- Family Gatherings – Serve as a crowd-pleaser during family dinners or get-togethers.

How to Perfect Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Perfecting your Crispy Roast Potatoes requires a few simple techniques. Follow these tips to ensure that your potatoes turn out delicious every time.
- Choose the Right Potatoes – Use yellow potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to become fluffy inside.
- Don’t Rush the Boil – Allowing the potatoes to become just fork-tender helps create a fluffy interior.
- Rough Up the Edges – Shaking the drained potatoes in the colander creates more surface area for crispiness.
- Preheat Your Pan – Heating the roasting pan before adding fat ensures that the potatoes begin cooking immediately.
- Toss Periodically – Tossing every 20 minutes allows even browning and prevents sticking.
- Use Fresh Herbs – Adding fresh rosemary enhances flavor dramatically; don’t skip this step!
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
These Crispy Roast Potatoes can be paired with various side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans with garlic complement the potato’s flavors well.
- Cauliflower Rice – Light and fluffy cauliflower rice adds volume without heaviness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These add an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the rosemary in the potatoes.
- Herbed Quinoa – Fluffy quinoa with herbs makes for a nutritious grain option.
- Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a fresh alternative on your plate.
- Braised Kale – A rich, savory kale dish adds nutrients and balances out the meal nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the soaking step: Not rinsing your potatoes can lead to sogginess. Make sure to soak them in cold water to remove excess starch.
- Overcrowding the pan: If you pile too many potatoes in the roasting pan, they won’t crisp up properly. Give them enough space for even cooking.
- Not preheating the pan: Failing to preheat your roasting pan can result in uneven cooking. Always heat it before adding potatoes for that extra crunch.
- Using the wrong fat: Substituting duck fat with a low-quality oil can affect flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality fats like olive oil or ghee for a better outcome.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoned potatoes can taste bland. Be generous with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Skipping the toss: Forgetting to toss the potatoes during cooking leads to uneven browning. Toss them every 20 minutes for that perfect golden crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-5 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.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F, spread on a baking sheet, and heat until crispy (about 15-20 minutes).
- Microwave: Heat on medium power but expect a softer texture; not recommended for best results.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about preparing Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While yellow potatoes work well, you can also use Russet or red potatoes for different textures.
What if I don’t have duck fat?
You can substitute duck fat with olive oil, beef tallow, ghee, or avocado oil for a similar result.
How do I make these potatoes more flavorful?
Consider adding spices like paprika or herbs like thyme along with rosemary for extra flavor depth.
Are Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These potatoes store well and make an excellent addition to your weekly meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are not only delicious but also versatile. Their crunchy exterior paired with fluffy interiors makes them a fantastic side dish for any meal. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Try this recipe today, and enjoy perfect roast potatoes at home!

Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are the ultimate side dish for any occasion. With their irresistibly crunchy exterior and fluffy interior, these potatoes will elevate your meals whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or enjoying a cozy night in. Infused with aromatic garlic and fresh rosemary, they deliver a burst of flavor that will delight every palate. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also aligns with Whole30 guidelines, making it a healthy addition to your table. Serve them alongside grilled meats or as part of a vibrant vegetable medley for a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds yellow potatoes
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ cup duck fat (or substitute)
- 1 whole head garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F with a large roasting pan inside.
- Rinse and peel the potatoes, then boil in salted water with baking soda until fork-tender (about 25 minutes). Drain and let dry.
- Remove the roasting pan, add melted duck fat, and shake potatoes in a colander to roughen edges before adding them to the pan.
- Season with salt and pepper, nestle the garlic head cut-side down, and roast for 55–60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes.
- Mash roasted garlic with rosemary and olive oil; toss this mixture into the potatoes before roasting for an additional 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about ½ cup (90g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg