Only a couple of items needed! Potatoes are very tasty and you will want to cook them repeatedly!

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the potatoes (if you prefer, you can leave the skins on for a rustic touch). Slice the potatoes into evenly sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes or wedges, depending on your preference. Keeping the pieces uniform ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

Place the potato pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss the potatoes to coat them evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to elevate the flavor, sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for a little extra kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also be added for a fragrant, earthy note.

Step 3: Roast the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned potato pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. This helps them crisp up nicely. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will make them steam rather than roast.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the edges, with a tender interior when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the potatoes are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of extra salt. Serve the potatoes as a side dish or enjoy them on their own with a dipping sauce like ketchup, sour cream, or aioli.

Tips for Perfect Potatoes Every Time:

• Cut Evenly: To ensure even cooking, try to cut your potatoes into uniform sizes. If the pieces are too large, they may not cook through properly, and if they’re too small, they may burn before they’re tender.
• Don’t Skimp on Oil: The olive oil helps the potatoes crisp up and gives them that golden-brown exterior. Make sure each potato piece is coated, but not drenched. You want just enough oil to get that crispy texture.
• Use a Hot Oven: The high oven temperature is key to achieving that crisp exterior and tender interior. If the oven is too cool, the potatoes will bake but won’t get the crunchy texture we’re aiming for.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While salt and pepper are a must, feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Try adding some chili powder for a little heat, smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or parmesan cheese for a savory finish.
• Flip for Even Crispness: Make sure to flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking process. This allows them to cook evenly on all sides and helps them achieve a golden, crispy texture.

Why Potatoes Are So Special:

Potatoes are a universal comfort food. They are affordable, easy to cook, and incredibly versatile. Whether mashed, baked, fried, or roasted, they always seem to hit the spot. Potatoes can stand alone or act as a complement to other dishes. This simple recipe allows the natural flavors of the potato to shine, giving you a tasty and satisfying dish without a lot of fuss.

Not only do they taste great, but potatoes are also a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal. When prepared with just a bit of oil and seasoning, they’re a great way to enjoy a wholesome and filling side dish.

Creative Variations:

1. Cheesy Potatoes: Sprinkle grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella) over the roasted potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking to create a cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth topping.
2. Loaded Potatoes: Top the roasted potatoes with sour cream, bacon bits, chives, and shredded cheese for a decadent twist.
3. Sweet Potato Version: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Sweet potatoes will bring a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory seasonings.
4. Herb-Infused Oil: For a more aromatic flavor, infuse the olive oil with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic before tossing it with the potatoes. Simply heat the oil with the herbs for a few minutes, strain, and use it to coat the potatoes.

Conclusion:

With only a couple of ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering potato dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor. Potatoes are not only easy to prepare, but they’re also a blank canvas that can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you’re serving them alongside a main course or enjoying them as a snack, these roasted potatoes are sure to become a new favorite in your household.

The best part? They’re so simple to make that you’ll find yourself cooking them again and again—everyone will be asking for seconds! So, grab your potatoes, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make dish.