Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

While Yukon Golds are ideal because of their buttery flavor and perfect texture, you can use russets in a pinch. Red potatoes aren't recommended as they don't develop the same melt-in-your-mouth interior. Whatever type you choose, aim for larger potatoes to get nice thick slices.

Why is my oven smoking when making these potatoes?

The high temperature combined with butter can cause some smoking. Make sure your oven is clean before starting, and if smoking occurs, quickly wipe any butter from the oven floor. Some slight smoking is normal and contributes to the flavor, but excessive smoke indicates the butter is burning.

Can I make these potatoes without so much butter?

The butter is essential for creating both the texture and flavor that makes these "melting" potatoes. You can reduce it somewhat, but be prepared for different results. The potatoes won't caramelize as beautifully and may not develop that signature contrast between exterior and interior.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

Perfect melting potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork or knife but still hold their shape. The exterior should be deeply golden and caramelized, and most of the broth should be reduced to a thickened sauce. If in doubt, taste one - it should be creamy inside, not at all hard or chalky.

Melting Potatoes Recipe - LazyDayRecipes

Name: Melting Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled; 1½ cups unsalted butter, melted (3 sticks); 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon herbs de Provence; Fresh herbs such as rosemary and sage

These aptly named Melting Potatoes are truly magical – crispy and caramelized on the outside, creamy and buttery on the inside, all bathed in a savory garlic herb sauce. They transform the humble potato into something extraordinary with minimal effort. If you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe, this is it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-Quality Results: These potatoes achieve that perfect contrast between crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior that’s typically only found in high-end steakhouses.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already, making this an accessible recipe for any night of the week.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these potatoes ahead of time and reheat when needed – they hold up beautifully and the flavors continue to develop.
Versatile: Works as an elegant dinner party side or alongside a casual weeknight dinner – these potatoes elevate any meal they accompany.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Yukon Gold potatoes: Their naturally buttery taste and waxy texture makes them perfect for this recipe. They hold their shape while developing that sought-after creamy interior.
Unsalted butter: The generous amount might seem shocking, but it’s essential for creating that signature caramelized exterior and rich flavor. It’s what makes these potatoes truly special.
Fresh thyme: Adds aromatic, earthy notes that complement the potatoes perfectly. Fresh is best here for maximum flavor.
Kosher salt: The coarser texture helps to season the potatoes more effectively than table salt.
Black pepper: Freshly ground provides the best flavor punch and subtle heat.
Chicken broth: Creates the magical sauce that gets absorbed into the potatoes during the final cooking stage. The savory depth is unmatched.
Garlic: Becomes mellow and sweet when roasted at high heat, infusing the sauce with incredible flavor.
Optional add-ins: Red pepper flakes for heat, herbs de Provence for a French twist, or fresh rosemary and sage for more herbal complexity.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to make these potatoes your own? Try these delicious twists:

Parmesan Crusted: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the final 5 minutes of cooking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest to the butter mixture and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, vibrant version.
Steakhouse Style: Add minced shallots to the garlic broth and finish with a sprinkle of blue cheese for a decadent steakhouse experience.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth – the results are equally delicious.

How to Make Melting Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 500°F with the rack in the middle position. Spray a 12×8-inch metal baking pan with nonstick spray. Peel the potatoes, square off the ends, and cut into uniform 1-inch thick disks – the uniformity ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

Toss the potato slices in a large bowl with melted butter, fresh thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. The generous amount of butter is key to achieving that signature exterior.

Step 3: First Roasting Phase

Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in your prepared pan, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Roast for 20 minutes until the bottoms begin to caramelize and turn golden brown.

Step 4: Flip and Roast Again

Remove from the oven and carefully flip each potato using a flat metal spatula. If they stick, gently loosen them – don’t pull or force them. Return to the oven for another 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Broth Mixture

Whisk together chicken broth, minced garlic, and any optional herbs or spices. Remove the pan from the oven, flip the potatoes once more, and pour this mixture over them. The sizzle is immensely satisfying!

Step 6: Final Roasting

Return to the oven for a final 15 minutes. During this time, the potatoes absorb the flavorful liquid while continuing to caramelize, and the broth reduces into a delicious sauce.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a metal pan: Glass or ceramic can shatter at 500°F. A heavy-duty metal baking sheet or pan is essential.
Maintain uniform thickness: Cutting potatoes to the same thickness ensures they cook evenly – aim for exactly 1-inch thick slices.
Don’t skimp on butter: It may seem excessive, but the butter is crucial for achieving the signature caramelization and flavor.
Patience with flipping: Use a thin metal spatula and gently loosen any stuck potatoes before attempting to flip them.
Watch carefully: At such high heat, the difference between perfectly caramelized and burnt can be just a minute or two.

How to Serve

These melting potatoes shine as a side dish that pairs beautifully with so many mains:

Perfect Pairings:

Serve alongside a perfectly seared steak for a steakhouse experience at home
Pair with roasted chicken for a Sunday dinner that feels special
Complement grilled fish for an elegant yet simple meal
Serve with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian feast

Garnishes:

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt and additional fresh herbs just before serving adds a professional touch and bright flavor contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making these potatoes sometimes even better the next day.

Freezing

These potatoes freeze surprisingly well. Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. The texture remains excellent upon reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat potatoes in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if they seem dry. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of the textural contrast.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

While Yukon Golds are ideal because of their buttery flavor and perfect texture, you can use russets in a pinch. Red potatoes aren’t recommended as they don’t develop the same melt-in-your-mouth interior. Whatever type you choose, aim for larger potatoes to get nice thick slices.
Why is my oven smoking when making these potatoes?

The high temperature combined with butter can cause some smoking. Make sure your oven is clean before starting, and if smoking occurs, quickly wipe any butter from the oven floor. Some slight smoking is normal and contributes to the flavor, but excessive smoke indicates the butter is burning.
Can I make these potatoes without so much butter?

The butter is essential for creating both the texture and flavor that makes these “melting” potatoes. You can reduce it somewhat, but be prepared for different results. The potatoes won’t caramelize as beautifully and may not develop that signature contrast between exterior and interior.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?

Perfect melting potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork or knife but still hold their shape. The exterior should be deeply golden and caramelized, and most of the broth should be reduced to a thickened sauce. If in doubt, taste one – it should be creamy inside, not at all hard or chalky.

Final Thoughts

These Melting Potatoes are truly a game-changer in the world of side dishes. With their golden, caramelized exterior giving way to a buttery-soft interior, all coated in that incredible garlic herb sauce, they elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. The best part? They’re deceptively simple to make despite their impressive results. Give them a try the next time you want to add something special to your dinner table – your family and guests will be singing your praises!