How To Make Scored Potatoes with Garlic Butter
Preparing the perfect dish of Potatoes with Garlic Butter can elevate any meal. This dish, featuring crispy exteriors and creamy interiors, is a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. In this guide, we will explore the process of making these scrumptious potatoes step by step. Let’s dive into the details that will help you achieve culinary perfection.
These Potatoes with Garlic Butter not only serve as a side dish but can also be transformed into a main attraction. By adding a protein such as grilled chicken or a hearty vegetarian option like roasted chickpeas, you can create a complete meal. This flexibility makes the dish suitable for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to festive celebrations. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed when adding other components to the dish.
Additionally, consider how you serve the Potatoes with Garlic Butter. Pair them with a homemade dipping sauce such as a garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt dip. You can also top them with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings. Truffle oil drizzled over the finished potatoes can impart a luxurious touch, making this dish even more indulgent.
Let’s explore some variations of this dish. For a twist, try adding different herbs such as rosemary or thyme instead of sage. Each herb brings its unique flavor profile, which can transform the dish entirely. You might also consider incorporating roasted garlic instead of minced garlic for a more mellow, sweet flavor. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the garlic butter before drizzling it over the potatoes. These variations can make your Potatoes with Garlic Butter a standout dish at any gathering.
These Potatoes with Garlic Butter are an incredible accompaniment to any holiday meal. Smooth and luscious on the inside and crispy on the outside, this side helps create the perfect meal. Creamy garlic butter, sage, and Parmesan top off this dish, accenting the richness and depth of the potatoes. The first step in making these delightful potatoes is to choose the right type of potato. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best due to their waxy texture, which holds up beautifully during cooking. Before you start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even cooking temperature. This temperature is ideal for achieving that perfect golden-brown color while allowing the insides to become soft and tender.
Next, wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. It’s important to scrub them well since you’ll be keeping the skins on for added flavor and texture. Once cleaned, pat them dry with a clean towel. The next step is to score the potatoes. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts across the top of each potato, about a quarter-inch apart. This technique not only allows the flavors of the garlic butter to seep into the potatoes but also creates a beautiful presentation when baked. Scoring helps the potatoes cook evenly and ensures that every bite is infused with that delectable garlic butter. Consider this technique a crucial part of the preparation process.
Now, it’s time to prepare the garlic butter. In a small saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat, and add 4-5 cloves of minced garlic. Stir the mixture gently to infuse the garlic flavor into the butter. After about 2-3 minutes, when the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned, remove it from the heat. Add in a handful of chopped fresh sage leaves, and stir to combine. This herb adds an aromatic quality that elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness. You might also consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an added kick or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Once your garlic butter is ready, drizzle it generously over the scored potatoes, making sure to get some into the cuts. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial, as the cheese will melt into the potatoes, creating a luscious, savory crust. Don’t hesitate to use a mix of cheeses, such as Gruyère or Gouda, for a richer flavor profile. The combination of the savory cheese with the aromatic garlic butter creates a heavenly taste that is hard to resist.
Arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the tops are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through the baking process, you can baste the potatoes with the remaining garlic butter to enhance their flavor further. If you have any leftover herbs, feel free to sprinkle them on top for extra flavor. You can tell the potatoes are done when a fork easily pierces through the flesh, and the tops are beautifully crisp.
Once they are done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to settle. To serve, garnish with more fresh sage and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan if desired. These Potatoes with Garlic Butter are sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your holiday gatherings. With their rich flavors and delightful textures, they pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your culinary creation, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!
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- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Brush one tablespoon of olive oil evenly on a small baking sheet.
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise with a sharp knife, then use the tip of a knife to score the cut sides in a ¼-inch crosshatch pattern. Rub both sides of potato halves with the butter and season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste.
- Arrange the potato halves, flesh side down, on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, or until tender and crispy.
- Meanwhile, make the garlic butter by combining the melted butter, garlic, parsley, and cayenne in a small dish; keep warm.
- Carefully flip the potato halves over with a spatula and brush the garlic butter evenly over each potato half.
- Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and serve as is, or topped with sour cream, bacon bits, and green onions or chives.
Nutrition (4 servings)
Calories: 517 | Carbohydrates: 32.8 g | Protein: 11.1 g | Fat: 29.9 g | Saturated Fat: 4.19 g | Trans Fat: 0 g |
