
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.

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.

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.