Roasted Potatoes with Paprika Recipe

Introduction

Roasted Potatoes with Paprika is a simple yet flavorful side dish that combines the earthy richness of potatoes with the smoky warmth of paprika. This easy recipe delivers perfectly roasted potatoes with crispy edges and a tender interior, making it a great addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering.

Paprika, a vibrant red spice derived from ground peppers, infuses the potatoes with a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the natural taste of the potatoes. The combination of seasonings and the roasting process creates an irresistibly delicious dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, from potato lovers to spice enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love Roasted Potatoes with Paprika

• Rich, Smoky Flavor: The star of this recipe is paprika, which lends the potatoes a deep, smoky flavor that’s slightly sweet and savory. It’s a perfect balance to the earthiness of the potatoes.
• Crispy and Tender Texture: Roasting potatoes ensures they develop a golden, crispy exterior while the inside remains tender and soft. The high heat from the oven helps achieve the ideal texture, making them both crispy and creamy.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples like potatoes, olive oil, and spices, these roasted potatoes are both easy and inexpensive to prepare.
• Versatile and Adaptable: This dish can easily be adapted with different spices or seasonings to suit your preferences. You can also change up the variety of potatoes or add a variety of vegetables for a more hearty side dish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner, prepping for a holiday meal, or serving guests, Roasted Potatoes with Paprika is a great choice. It pairs well with almost any main dish, from roasted meats to grilled vegetables.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 200-220 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200-220 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the Roasted Potatoes with Paprika:

• 2 pounds (900g) medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked paprika for a more intense flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Special Equipment

While making Roasted Potatoes with Paprika doesn’t require specialized tools, the following equipment can help make the process easier:

1. Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is essential for ensuring the potatoes are evenly spaced and roast well. It provides enough surface area for the potatoes to crisp up and get golden brown.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife helps you cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces, ensuring they cook evenly. A dull knife can cause uneven cuts, leading to uneven cooking.
3. Large Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is ideal for tossing the potatoes with the olive oil and spices. It ensures all the potatoes are evenly coated without spilling.
4. Spatula: A spatula will help you flip the potatoes halfway through the roasting process, ensuring that they cook evenly and get crisp on all sides.
5. Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements of spices are crucial for achieving the right balance of flavor. A set of measuring spoons ensures you don’t overdo it on any particular spice.
6. Tongs or Spoon: For serving, tongs or a large spoon helps you transfer the potatoes to a serving dish without breaking them apart.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help the potatoes achieve a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Wash and peel the potatoes if desired, although leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes or wedges, about 1-inch in size. Keeping the pieces uniform ensures even cooking and browning.

2. Toss the Potatoes with Olive Oil and Spices

Place the cut potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes and toss them gently to coat all the pieces evenly. The olive oil helps with the crisping process and enhances the flavor.

Next, add the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are fully coated in the spice mixture. Be sure to coat the potatoes evenly so that every bite has a burst of flavor.

3. Arrange the Potatoes on a Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup or simply spray the sheet with cooking spray. Spread the seasoned potato pieces in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Overcrowding the pan will cause the potatoes to steam rather than roast, preventing them from becoming crispy.

4. Roast the Potatoes

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 30-35 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they roast evenly. The potatoes should become golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a tender interior.

Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning. Depending on your oven, the potatoes may need a little more or less time, so check for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer into a potato piece—it should slide in easily.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the potatoes are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve the potatoes hot as a side dish with your favorite main courses.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Potatoes with Paprika

• Use the Right Type of Potato: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are the best choices for roasting. Yukon Golds have a creamy texture and a golden color, while Russets give a crispier finish. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they don’t crisp up as well.
• Cut the Potatoes Evenly: Ensure all potato pieces are the same size to allow for even cooking. This ensures they all roast at the same rate and results in consistent texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: If the potatoes are packed too tightly, they’ll steam instead of roast, which will prevent them from becoming crispy. Use two baking sheets if needed to give them enough space.
• Adjust the Seasonings: If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix. Alternatively, you can switch the thyme for rosemary or oregano to experiment with different flavor profiles.
• Roast at a High Temperature: Roasting at 425°F (220°C) allows the potatoes to cook quickly and achieve that desirable crispy texture. A lower temperature might result in soft, soggy potatoes instead of crispy ones.
• Flip the Potatoes: Turning the potatoes halfway through the roasting time ensures they brown evenly on all sides.
• Use Smoked Paprika: For an extra layer of smokiness, use smoked paprika rather than regular paprika. It gives the potatoes a more complex and intense flavor.

Variations of Roasted Potatoes with Paprika

• Lemon Paprika Roasted Potatoes: Add a zest of lemon and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the potatoes just before serving. The citrus adds a bright contrast to the smoky paprika flavor.
• Herb-Crusted Paprika Potatoes: For added flavor, mix in some fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano with the paprika before roasting.
• Spicy Paprika Potatoes: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mix for a fiery kick. This variation is perfect for those who like a bit of heat with their potatoes.
• Cheesy Paprika Potatoes: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the potatoes during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy, savory twist.
• Paprika and Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Increase the garlic powder to 1 tablespoon, or add minced fresh garlic to the potatoes for a more intense garlic flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Roasted Potatoes with Paprika are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. Let the potatoes cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil to restore some of the crispiness.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Roasted Potatoes with Paprika

These roasted potatoes are versatile and can be paired with a variety of main dishes. Here are some great options to serve them with:

• Grilled Chicken or Chicken Thighs: The smoky flavor of the paprika complements grilled chicken, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.
• Roast Beef or Pork: Roasted potatoes with paprika pair wonderfully with roast beef or pork, as the rich and savory flavors balance each other.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: For a vegetarian meal, pair the potatoes with a vegetable stir-fry or roasted vegetables for a satisfying, healthy dinner.
• Salads: Serve these potatoes alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal.
• Dips: Pair the roasted potatoes with a creamy dip like sour cream or tzatziki, or a spicy dip like harissa or sriracha mayo for extra flavor.

Print

Conclusion

Roasted Potatoes with Paprika are an easy, flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. The combination of smoky paprika, crispy edges, and tender centers creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them with a roast dinner, a casual weeknight meal, or for a holiday feast, these roasted potatoes will always impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying side dish in no time!