These oven-roasted potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside — a simple, flavorful side that comes together quickly and pairs well with any protein and vegetables.

Table of Contents
- This recipe is…
- What is the difference between baked and roasted potatoes?
- Recipe Ingredients
- Ingredient Modifications
- How to Make Roasted Potatoes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Favorite Potato Recipes
- Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe
- Recipe Contributors
This recipe is…
These oven-roasted potatoes are a favorite because they’re easy and reliably delicious. When you want a starchy side that’s crispy outside and tender inside, this straightforward recipe delivers every time.
What is the difference between baked and roasted potatoes?
A “baked potato” usually means a whole potato cooked in the oven, often split and topped with butter, sour cream, cheese, or other fillings. “Roasted potatoes” are cut into smaller pieces and cooked at higher heat so they develop a golden, crispy exterior while staying soft inside.
Recipe Ingredients
The ingredient list is minimal—simple pantry staples yield great flavor:

- Yukon Gold Potatoes – about 1 ½ pounds. Yukon Golds roast beautifully and become creamy inside.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon to help the potatoes crisp up.
- Sea Salt + Ground Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon sea salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper keep the seasoning simple and classic.
Ingredient Modifications
Feel free to adjust flavors and potato varieties to suit your taste:
- Add seasonings: Salt and pepper are enough, but paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika all make excellent additions.
- Use different potatoes: If you prefer russet, red, or another variety, they will work—just note that cooking times and internal texture may vary slightly.
How to Make Roasted Potatoes
Quick and straightforward—follow these simple steps:




- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Chop the potatoes – cut into roughly 1-inch cubes and arrange on a baking sheet.
- Toss with oil and seasoning – mix with 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Spread in a single layer so pieces aren’t overlapping.
- Bake – roast at 400°F for about 45 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Serve – remove from the oven and enjoy immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions
Yukon Golds are a great choice because they become creamy inside while crisping on the outside. Russets, reds, and other varieties also roast well; the texture will differ slightly by type.
For small potatoes like Yukon Gold, quarter each one to yield roughly 1-inch pieces. For larger potatoes, cut into additional slices until the pieces are about 1 inch.
Rosemary, thyme, parsley, or chives all complement roasted potatoes nicely. Add fresh herbs after baking for the brightest flavor.
Soaking can remove surface starch and help crisping, but it isn’t required. With enough oil and high heat, these potatoes crisp well without soaking.
Coat the potatoes thoroughly with oil and spread them in a single layer with space between pieces. A hot, well-oiled sheet pan helps prevent sticking.
Soft results usually mean not enough oil or the pan was overcrowded. Use the full tablespoon of oil and avoid overlapping pieces so hot air can circulate.
Yes. Leftovers reheat well in a hot oven on a sheet pan or in a skillet with a bit of oil to help restore crispness.
More Favorite Potato Recipes
Oven Baked Potato
Oven Roasted Potato Wedges
German Potato Salad
Quick and Easy Crispy Smashed PotatoesOven Roasted Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds Yukon gold potatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes and place them on a baking sheet.
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Toss the potatoes with the olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper, then spread them in a single layer on the sheet pan.
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Bake for about 45 minutes, until the potatoes are golden and crisp.
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Serve hot and enjoy.
Nutrition
Additional Info
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Recipe Contributors

Cassy Joy Garcia
Recipe Developer

Brandi Schilhab
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