Garlic butter potatoes are the ultimate side dish—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with savory flavor. Whether you roast them in the oven or pan-fry them to golden perfection, these spuds are always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for pairing with meats, fish, or served all on their own.
This guide to garlic butter potatoes will show you how to master this simple but flavorful dish in under 30 minutes. Great for weeknights, holidays, or anytime you’re craving something rich and garlicky.
How to Make Garlic Butter Potatoes
This easy garlic butter potato recipe uses minimal ingredients to deliver maximum taste. It’s a great way to elevate simple potatoes into a five-star side dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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1.5 lbs baby potatoes or Yukon golds, halved
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
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Lemon zest for brightness
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparing Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Boil for 10–12 minutes or until just fork-tender. Drain and pat dry.
Step 2: Sauté in Garlic Butter
In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the potatoes cut-side down in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. Optional: Finish with Parmesan or lemon zest for an extra flavor punch.
Servings
Serves 4 as a side dish.
Presentation & Decoration
Garnish Ideas:
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Chopped parsley or thyme
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Light dusting of Parmesan
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A lemon wedge on the side
Serving Suggestions:
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Pairs well with steak, chicken, or salmon
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Great with a simple green salad
Best Time to Eat
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Weeknight Dinner: Easy and quick to prepare
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Holiday Side: Makes a stunning addition to any spread
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Cookout or BBQ: Ideal side for grilled dishes
Portion Guide
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Individual: About 1 cup per person
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Group: Double the recipe for 6–8 servings
Storage & Shelf Life
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness
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Freezing: Not recommended due to texture changes
Allergy Guide
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Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter or olive oil only
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Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free
More Recipes with Potatoes
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, garlicky, and comforting
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Potato Wedges: Baked with herbs and spices for a crispy finish
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Loaded Potato Skins: Topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream
Tag your golden creations and share how you made these buttery bites your own. You might just see your spuds in our next recipe spotlight!
Emily is a devoted wife, mother, and passionate home cook who finds joy in creating comforting meals straight from her kitchen. When she’s not busy managing the household or helping out on her husband’s farm, she spends her time baking delicious treats that have become a favorite among friends and neighbors. Emily believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a freshly baked pie or a hearty home-cooked dinner, her love for cooking shines through in every dish she makes.