Herb-Infused Baked Potatoes with Garlic Butter

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're looking to elevate your potato game, these Herb-Infused Baked Potatoes with Garlic Butter are your ticket to flavor town. Easy to make and loaded with aromatic herbs, they make the perfect side dish for any meal. Plus, who can resist a creamy, buttery bite?

Ingredients for Herb-Infused Baked Potatoes with Garlic Butter

Let's dive into what makes these potatoes truly delicious. First up, the russet potatoes. Their starchy nature makes them perfect for baking, offering a soft, fluffy interior. The olive oil not only helps the skin crisp up but also adds a subtle richness. Seasoning with salt and black pepper brings out the natural flavors. Now, the stars of the show: fresh rosemary and thyme. These herbs infuse the potatoes with their earthy, aromatic notes. The unsalted butter carries the flavors of the herbs and garlic, which bring that savory, irresistible aroma. Finally, topping with sour cream adds a creamy tang, and chives offer a fresh, oniony finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispy skin, bake the potatoes on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  • Don't skimp on the salt when seasoning the skin; it enhances the flavor significantly.
  • If you're short on time, microwave the potatoes for a few minutes before baking to reduce cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These potatoes pair beautifully with grilled meats like steak or chicken. They're also fantastic alongside a hearty salad for a lighter meal. For a cozy dinner, serve them with a bowl of soup, such as a creamy tomato or a hearty vegetable stew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, but russets are ideal for their fluffy texture. If using a different type, adjust the baking time as needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Can I make these potatoes vegan?
Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and the sour cream with a plant-based version. You’ll still get that delicious flavor!

Herb-Infused Baked Potatoes with Garlic Butter Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). This ensures that everything is ready to go once the potatoes are prepped. Next, give the potatoes a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel; this helps the skin crisp up during baking. Use a fork to pierce each potato several times. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape, preventing any kitchen mishaps.

Now, rub each potato with olive oil, making sure they’re evenly coated. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning brings out the best in your potatoes. Place them directly on the oven rack; this allows the heat to circulate all around, cooking them evenly. Let them bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a fork slides in easily.

While the potatoes are baking, it's time to prepare the herb-infused garlic butter. Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook this mixture just until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic; you want it to be aromatic, not bitter. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.

Once the potatoes are baked to perfection, carefully remove them from the oven. Using a knife, make a slit on the top of each potato. This is where the magic happens: fluff the inside with a fork and drizzle generously with your herb-infused garlic butter. Serve them hot, with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped chives on top. Enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Infused with fragrant herbs, making each bite a burst of flavor.
  • Simple ingredients that transform into an impressive dish.
  • Perfectly crispy skin with a fluffy interior.
  • Easy to pair with a variety of main dishes or enjoy on their own.

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1/4 cup unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sour cream for serving
1/4 cup chopped chives for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes under running water and pat them dry with a towel.
3. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Rub the potatoes with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes or until tender.
6. While the potatoes are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
7. Add minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the butter, cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
8. Remove the herb-infused butter from heat and set aside.
9. Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and make a slit on top of each.
10. Fluff the inside of the potatoes with a fork and drizzle with the herb-infused garlic butter.
11. Serve hot, topped with sour cream and a sprinkle of chives.

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