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 simply enjoying a weeknight meal, these potatoes will elevate your dish with their rich flavor and delightful texture. The combination of rosemary and garlic adds a fragrant twist, making them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Seasoning – The blend of rosemary and garlic creates a savory aroma that enhances the potatoes.
- Crispy Texture – Achieve a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy, perfect for satisfying any craving.
- Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Versatile Side Dish – These roast potatoes pair well with various main courses, from meats to vegetarian dishes.
- Whole30 Approved – Enjoy this dish without worrying about added sugars or non-compliant ingredients.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large stock pot
- Roasting pan
- Colander
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Large stock pot – Ideal for boiling the potatoes evenly.
- Roasting pan – Ensures maximum crispiness as it heats up in the oven.
- Colander – Helps drain excess water from boiled potatoes effectively.
- Fork – Useful for mashing roasted garlic and mixing flavors thoroughly.
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 flaky 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 it to 450F.
Step 2: Boil 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, then set over high heat.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook until just fork-tender, about 25 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them dry fully in the colander.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
- Carefully remove the preheated roasting pan from the oven.
- Add duck fat to the pan and let it melt completely.
- Gently shake the potatoes in the colander to rough up their edges.
- Transfer them to the roasting pan, season with salt and pepper, then toss gently to coat.
- Nestle in the head of garlic cut-side down before returning it to the oven.
- Roast for about 55 to 60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Rosemary Mixture
- Once roasted, remove the garlic from the pan; push out individual cloves into a bowl.
- Combine roasted garlic cloves with chopped rosemary and olive oil; mash together using a fork.
- Return this mixture to the roasting pan, tossing it with potatoes.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Serve
- Taste your crispy roast potatoes for seasoning; adjust with flaky sea salt as needed. Transfer them 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 for any meal. Their crunchy exterior and fluffy interior pair wonderfully with various main courses, enhancing your dining experience.
With Grilled Meats
- Steak – The savory flavors of grilled steak complement the aromatic potatoes beautifully.
- Chicken – Juicy roasted or grilled chicken adds a hearty balance to this crispy side.
- Pork Chops – Tender pork chops alongside these potatoes create a classic comfort meal.
With Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crisp romaine contrast nicely with the crunch of the potatoes.
- Arugula Salad – A peppery arugula salad adds freshness that pairs well with the rich flavors of the roast potatoes.
As a Snack
- Dipping Sauce – Serve crispy potatoes with a garlic aioli or herb dip for a tasty snack option.
- Topped with Cheese – Sprinkle some feta or parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Achieving perfect crispy roast potatoes requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results every time.
- Choose the Right Potatoes – Use yellow potatoes for their naturally creamy texture that enhances fluffiness.
- Soak Before Cooking – Rinsing and soaking helps remove excess starch, leading to crispier edges.
- Use High Heat – Roasting at 450F ensures maximum crispiness while keeping the inside fluffy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Give each potato chunk space to roast evenly; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
- Toss Regularly – Tossing the potatoes in the oven allows even browning and helps develop that desired crunch.
- Finish with Sea Salt – A sprinkle of flakey sea salt right before serving enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
Pairing your crispy roast potatoes with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the potatoes.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These add a nutty flavor that works well alongside crispy potatoes.
- Sautéed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans bring bright color and flavor to your plate.
- Garlic-Butter Mushrooms – Rich mushrooms enhance the dish’s umami profile, making it more satisfying.
- Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad adds protein and texture, creating a balanced meal.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the potatoes while adding crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30, there are a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Not soaking the potatoes: Failing to soak the potatoes can lead to a less crispy texture. Rinse and soak them in cold water to remove excess starch for better results.
- Using the wrong fat: Using low-quality oils or fats can affect the crispiness. Opt for duck fat, ghee, or avocado oil for that perfect crunch.
- Overcrowding the pan: Packing too many potatoes in one pan can cause steaming instead of roasting. Leave space between the potatoes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Skipping the seasoning: Under-seasoning your potatoes will result in bland flavor. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper generously before roasting.
- Not preheating the roasting pan: A cold pan will lead to soggy potatoes. Always preheat your roasting pan with fat before adding the potatoes for extra crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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 last up to 2 months.
Reheating Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate; heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Note that this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use russet or red potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different potato varieties may yield varying textures.
How do I make these potatoes vegan?
To make Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 vegan, simply substitute duck fat with olive oil or avocado oil throughout the recipe.
What can I serve with these roast potatoes?
These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a hearty salad. They’re versatile enough for any meal!
Can I prepare these roast potatoes ahead of time?
You can prep the potatoes by cutting and soaking them in advance. However, it’s best to roast them fresh for maximum crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are an irresistible side dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them a favorite among many. Feel free to customize them by adding different herbs or spices based on your taste preferences!

Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30 are the ultimate side dish, combining a wonderfully crunchy exterior with a fluffy center. Perfect for any occasion, these roast potatoes will enhance your meals with their rich flavors and delightful textures. The aromatic blend of garlic and fresh rosemary adds an irresistible twist that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce, these potatoes are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds yellow potatoes
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup duck fat (or olive oil)
- 1 whole head garlic
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F with a large roasting pan inside.
- Rinse and boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 25 minutes. Drain and dry them completely.
- Remove the hot roasting pan from the oven, add duck fat, and let it melt. Rough up the potato edges in a colander before transferring them to the pan.
- Season with salt and pepper, then nestle in the garlic head cut-side down. Roast for 55-60 minutes, tossing every 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Mash roasted garlic with rosemary and olive oil, mix into potatoes, and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg