Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside these Garlic and Herb Baked Potatoes are infused with buttery garlic, fresh herbs, and a golden crust that makes them the ultimate comfort side dish for any meal.

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Garlic and Herb Baked Potatoes

Few dishes are as universally loved and comforting as baked potatoes. But when you add a flavorful twist of garlic and herbs, this humble side dish transforms into a gourmet delight. These Garlic and Herb Baked Potatoes are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender and fluffy on the inside — with a buttery, garlicky flavor that pairs beautifully with just about any main course.

This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a holiday feast. Whether served alongside steak, roasted chicken, or grilled vegetables, these baked potatoes always steal the show.

The combination of fresh herbs, olive oil, and garlic creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen as they roast. The result? Potatoes that are crisp, aromatic, and full of flavor in every bite.

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Table of Contents

1. Ingredients

2. Tools You’ll Need

3. Step-by-Step Directions

4. Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes

5. Variations

6. Serving Suggestions

7. Storage and Reheating

8. Frequently Asked Questions

9. Final Thoughts

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Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 6 medium russet potatoes (scrubbed and dried)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)

• 1 teaspoon parsley flakes

• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crispiness)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley or chives

• A small dollop of sour cream or butter

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Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet

• Mixing bowl

• Basting brush or spoon

• Aluminum foil or parchment paper

• Sharp knife

• Oven mitts

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt.

3. Pat them completely dry with a clean towel — this step is essential for crispiness.

Tip: Choose russet potatoes or Yukon golds for the fluffiest interiors and best crisp crust.

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Step 2: Slice and Score the Potatoes

1. Using a sharp knife, carefully make small shallow slits or crosshatch patterns on the potato skins.

2. This helps the garlic-herb mixture penetrate deeper and ensures the skins crisp up beautifully during baking.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and parsley.

2. Mix until the oil is infused with the herbs and garlic.

3. Brush or spoon the mixture generously over each potato, coating all sides evenly.

Pro Tip: Rub some of the mixture into the slits or score marks — that’s where the magic flavor hides!

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Step 4: Bake the Potatoes

1. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Place the potatoes evenly spaced on the sheet.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 55–65 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.

Optional: For an extra-crisp skin, brush with a little more olive oil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

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Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

1. When the potatoes are golden brown and crisp, remove them from the oven.

2. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for added flavor.

3. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or main dish.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic and Herb Baked Potatoes

• Dry the potatoes completely: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness — always pat dry before baking.

• Use high heat: Baking at 400°F (200°C) helps achieve that perfect crunchy skin.

• Don’t wrap in foil: This traps steam and makes the skins soft instead of crisp.

• Turn halfway through baking: Ensures even browning and flavor distribution.

• Use fresh garlic: It releases aromatic oils that infuse beautifully into the potatoes.

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Variations

1. Cheesy Garlic Herb Potatoes

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.

2. Spicy Garlic Herb Potatoes

Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or cajun seasoning to the garlic oil mixture for a spicy kick.

3. Lemon Herb Potatoes

Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before baking for a bright, fresh flavor.

4. Mediterranean Style

Mix in oregano, basil, and olive tapenade for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

5. Air Fryer Option

Cook the seasoned potatoes in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes, shaking halfway through.

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Serving Suggestions

These Garlic and Herb Baked Potatoes pair beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Try them with:

• Grilled or roasted meats – such as steak, chicken, or pork chops.

• Seafood – garlic shrimp or baked salmon complement these perfectly.

• Vegetarian options – pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.

• Sauces and dips – serve with sour cream, ranch, or garlic butter sauce for extra indulgence.

• Breakfast twist – top with scrambled eggs and cheese for a hearty morning meal.

Serving Idea: Slice the baked potatoes open and drizzle with extra garlic butter or top with a dollop of sour cream and chives for restaurant-quality presentation.

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator:

• Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

• Wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheat directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until hot and crispy.

Reheating Tip:
Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain the crisp skin. The oven or air fryer will give you the best results.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other potato types?

Yes! Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well — they just have a slightly creamier texture.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can coat the potatoes with the garlic-herb mixture, refrigerate for up to 8 hours, and bake when ready to serve.

3. What herbs work best?

Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley provide the best aroma, but you can also use dried herbs for convenience.

4. Can I add cheese before baking?

Yes, but cheese can burn easily. Add it during the last 10 minutes for perfect melting and flavor.

5. How do I make them extra crispy?

Use less oil, bake at high temperature, and avoid wrapping in foil. You can also finish with a quick broil for 2–3 minutes.

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Nutritional Information (Per Potato)

Note: Nutritional values vary based on portion size and ingredient choices.

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Final Thoughts

These Garlic and Herb Baked Potatoes prove that a simple dish can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. With just a few pantry staples, you can turn ordinary potatoes into a restaurant-quality side that complements any meal.

The combination of crispy golden skin, fluffy interior, and aromatic garlic-herb coating makes these potatoes a hit every time. They’re budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and perfect for family dinners, holidays, or even casual gatherings.

Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on their own with a bit of sour cream, these baked potatoes never fail to impress. Once you try them, they’ll become your go-to recipe for any occasion — simple, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying.