3-Ingredient Garlic Potatoes

Section: Easy Appetizers and Side Dishes for Any Meal

These garlic potatoes combine just a few ingredients—potatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian herbs—to create a wonderfully crisp and flavorful side. Cutting the potatoes evenly and roasting at high heat ensures a tender inside with golden, crunchy edges. Tipping with fresh herbs or sea salt enhances the aroma and taste. The method allows for simple substitutions like avocado oil or fresh garlic to personalize the dish. Perfect as a comforting addition to any meal.

A chef smiles for the camera.
Brought to You By Ryan
Last modified on Wed, 01 Oct 2025 09:10:37 GMT
A bowl of garlic potatoes. Bookmark
A bowl of garlic potatoes. | palatablelife.com

This 3 ingredient garlic potatoes recipe makes a perfect side dish for any meal, with just potatoes, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs and garlic powder creating comforting, easyto make flavors. It's a simple dish that always steals the show at holiday dinners in my family, often getting more attention than the main course.

This recipe has been a nostalgic favorite in my family during holidays and casual dinners alike. I especially remember how guests would keep reaching for seconds at every gathering.

Ingredients

  • Potatoes: choose large ones and cut into 1 to 1.5 inch chunks for even cooking and great texture
  • Olive oil: to coat the potatoes and help crisp them up while adding subtle richness
  • Italian herbs: add an aromatic blend of flavors that elevate the dish naturally
  • Garlic powder: provides easy garlic flavor that distributes evenly across the potatoes
  • Salt: enhances all the flavors and helps draw moisture out to assist crisping
  • Black pepper: provides a mild heat and depth to balance the garlic and herbs

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:
Thoroughly wash and dry the potatoes, cutting them into evenly sized chunks about 1 to 1.5 inches. Pat them dry well to ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.
Season the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the potato chunks with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to make sure every piece is evenly coated so the seasoning is consistent.
Arrange for Roasting:
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a parchmentlined or greased baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart to allow air circulation for maximum crispness.
Roast Until Golden:
Bake the potatoes for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping them halfway through to brown all sides evenly. Look for deeply golden edges and tender insides. If you want an extra crunch, broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Serve Immediately:
Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish while hot. Optionally sprinkle with coarse sea salt or fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor and color.
A bowl of potatoes with garlic and herbs.
A bowl of potatoes with garlic and herbs. | palatablelife.com

My favorite ingredient is the garlic powder because it melts into the oil and herbs, coating the potatoes so perfectly. One family memory that stands out is watching my little cousins eagerly dipping these potatoes into ketchup at a holiday feast, declaring them the best thing on the table.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and warm in a hot oven to revive their crispness instead of microwaving which can make them soggy.

Ingredient substitutions

Try swapping olive oil for avocado oil for a slightly nuttier flavor and even higher smoke point which can lead to crisper potatoes. Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder but add it halfway through roasting so it does not burn and create bitterness.

Serving suggestions

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats, a vibrant green salad, or even alongside scrambled eggs for a filling weekend brunch. A drizzle of truffle oil or sprinkle of grated Parmesan just before serving can turn them into an elegant treat.

A bowl of garlic potatoes with a spoon in it.
A bowl of garlic potatoes with a spoon in it. | palatablelife.com

These 3 ingredient garlic potatoes are an easy, crispy side that complements many mains. Serve hot and enjoy seconds.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ Why aren't my potatoes getting crispy?

Overcrowding the baking sheet or not drying the potatoes well can cause steaming instead of roasting. Ensure a hot oven (425°F/220°C) and spread potatoes in a single layer for the crispiest texture.

→ Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, russet potatoes crisp up best, but Yukon gold or fingerlings offer creamier textures. Adjust roasting time based on size and variety for even cooking.

→ How can I avoid burning the garlic?

Using fresh garlic is best added midway through roasting to prevent burning. Garlic powder mixed with oil and herbs is less prone to burning during the entire cooking time.

→ Is it okay to prepare the potatoes in advance?

You can season the potatoes a few hours ahead but roast just before serving for maximum crispness. Store cut potatoes in cold water to prevent browning and dry thoroughly before seasoning.

→ What are good serving suggestions with these potatoes?

Try finishing with a drizzle of truffle oil or grated Parmesan. They pair well with fresh green salads or served alongside eggs and roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

3-Ingredient Garlic Potatoes

Golden, herb-seasoned garlic potatoes roasted to crisp perfection with olive oil and spices.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Brought to You By: Ryan

Recipe Category: Appetizers and Sides

Skill Level: Perfect for Beginners

Culinary Inspiration: Mediterranean

Yields: 4 Portion Size

Dietary Preferences: Vegan-Friendly, Vegetarian-Friendly, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option

What You’ll Need

→ Main Ingredients

01 4-5 large potatoes, cut into 1 to 1.5 inch chunks
02 4 tablespoons olive oil
03 2 teaspoons Italian herbs
04 3 teaspoons garlic powder
05 ½ teaspoon salt
06 ½ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly, then cut into evenly sized 1 to 1.5 inch chunks to ensure uniform cooking. Pat dry to promote crispiness.

Step 02

In a large bowl, toss potato chunks with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat all pieces.

Step 03

Preheat oven to 425°F. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined or lightly oiled baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding for optimal crispness.

Step 04

Roast for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping potatoes halfway through. Roast until edges are deeply golden and centers are fork-tender. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crunch, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 05

Transfer potatoes to a serving dish while hot. Optionally, garnish with coarse sea salt or fresh herbs to enhance flavor and presentation.

Handy Tips

  1. Cut potatoes into uniform pieces and dry well to ensure even roasting and maximum crispiness.
  2. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; spread potatoes out for proper air circulation.
  3. Preheating the baking sheet can create a crispier bottom crust.
  4. When using fresh garlic instead of powder, add it halfway through roasting to prevent burning.

Must-Have Tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Oven
  • Spatula or hands for tossing

Nutritional Details (Per Portion)

Nutritional information is provided for reference and shouldn’t replace expert guidance.
  • Calories: 324
  • Fats: 19 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 37 grams
  • Proteins: 4 grams