These Garlic Butter Baby Potatoes are a simple yet indulgent side dish, perfect for complementing roasted meats, plant-based mains, or festive holiday meals.
The potatoes are tender on the inside with a buttery, herb-infused coating that enhances their natural flavor.
Rich in fiber and potassium, baby potatoes support digestion and heart health, while the moderate use of butter provides good fats without overwhelming the dish.
The addition of fresh garlic, dill, and parsley not only adds vibrant flavor but also offers antioxidants and phytonutrients.
Quick to prepare and requiring minimal ingredients, this recipe is meal-prep friendly, weeknight convenient, and guaranteed to satisfy, making it an everyday kitchen favorite for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Saucepan
Ideal for boiling potatoes evenly and efficiently. Multipurpose for pasta, grains, and soups.
Colander
Essential for draining boiled potatoes and removing excess water. Versatile for washing vegetables and pasta.
Chef’s Knife
Perfect for finely chopping garlic and herbs, ensuring even distribution of flavors. A kitchen staple for prepping any ingredient.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Helps toss potatoes with butter and herbs without damaging their texture. Great for stirring sauces and sautéed dishes.
Measuring Spoons
Ensures precise seasoning with salt, butter, and herbs. Useful for all baking and cooking needs where accuracy matters.
30-Minute Garlic Butter Baby Potatoes
Equipment
- Large Saucepan
- ColanderChef’s knife
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 750 g 1.65 lb baby potatoes
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by placing the baby potatoes in a large saucepan and cover them with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt to season the water and enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes.
- Boil the Potatoes: Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low–medium and simmer the potatoes gently until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, about 15–20 minutes depending on size.
- Drain and Dry: Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly using a colander. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to remove excess moisture, which will help the butter and herbs adhere evenly. No need to peel—the skins add flavor and texture.
- Melt the Butter: In a separate large skillet or the same saucepan, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Swirl to coat the pan evenly and prepare for flavor infusion.
- Add Herbs and Garlic: Finely chop the dill, parsley, and garlic. Add them to the melted butter and sauté briefly for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the flavors infuse into the butter without burning the garlic.
- Combine Potatoes and Butter: Return the cooked potatoes to the pan and gently toss them with the herb-infused garlic butter. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to coat each potato thoroughly while preserving its structure.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while warm, ensuring each potato is glossy with butter and sprinkled with herbs for a visually appealing and flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Use uniform-sized baby potatoes for even cooking.
- No need to peel potatoes; skins add flavor and nutrients.
- Dry potatoes briefly after draining to help butter and herbs cling better.
- Fresh herbs like dill and parsley enhance flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
- Adjust garlic quantity to taste for milder or stronger flavor.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can become softer when refrigerated.
- Salt and pepper can be added gradually, tasting as you go, to avoid over-seasoning.
Chef’s Secrets For Ultimate Flavor
The secret to perfectly flavorful garlic butter potatoes lies in timing and freshness.
Cook the potatoes just until fork-tender to maintain their shape and creamy interior.
Melting the butter gently before adding herbs and garlic ensures that the flavors infuse without burning.
Always add the herbs at the end of cooking or sauté briefly to preserve their vibrant color and aroma.
Using fresh garlic and freshly chopped herbs creates a richer, more aromatic dish compared to pre-minced or dried alternatives.
Finally, tossing the potatoes in the warm butter rather than cold ensures each piece is evenly coated and glossy.
Serving Suggestions For Any Occasion
These garlic butter baby potatoes are a versatile side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or plant-based protein dishes.
They are equally delicious alongside fish or as part of a holiday spread.
For a casual dinner, serve with a simple green salad and a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.
For festive meals, sprinkle extra fresh herbs or grated Parmesan over the top to elevate presentation and flavor.
They also work well for meal prep, reheated gently in a skillet to maintain their buttery texture.
Storage Tips To Keep Fresh
Store leftover garlic butter baby potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Avoid covering them with butter or herbs before storing, as this can cause sogginess.
To reheat, gently warm the potatoes in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to restore the buttery glaze and maintain a slightly crisp exterior.
Do not microwave, as it tends to make them soft and less flavorful.
Fresh herbs can be added again just before serving to refresh the dish
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I use larger potatoes?
Yes, but cut them into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent coating with butter and herbs.
2. Can I make this vegan?
Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter to maintain flavor while keeping the dish plant-based.
3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about half the quantity and add them earlier in the cooking process to release their flavors.
4. How do I avoid mushy potatoes?
Avoid overcooking; boil just until fork-tender. Dry them thoroughly before tossing in butter to maintain texture.
5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can boil the potatoes in advance and refrigerate them uncoated. Toss in butter and herbs just before serving for best results.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by mygorgeousrecipes. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
