Vegan Garlic-Herb Roasted Potatoes 🌿 – Crispy, Golden, and Irresistibly Flavorful
Serve up crispy, golden vegan garlic-herb roasted potatoes that are a crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving side. Tossed with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic, these plant-based potatoes are comfort food at its finest.
These vegan roasted potatoes are a must-have for Thanksgiving, holidays, or cozy weeknight meals. With a crunchy exterior, fluffy interior, and aromatic garlic-herb blend, they pair perfectly with any plant-based main. Plus, they’re loaded with flavor without a drop of dairy or animal products—making them inclusive for all guests.
Whether you’re hosting a veg-forward holiday dinner or adding a comforting side to your meal, these potatoes deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. The rosemary and thyme add earthy notes that elevate simple ingredients into a standout dish.
The secret to their crispy texture? A high-heat roast with a parchment paper-lined sheet for even baking. We’ll walk you through every step, from cutting the potatoes to achieving golden perfection. These potatoes also make a delicious leftover meal—try adding them to grain bowls or salads.
Ready to make your plant-based cooking shine? This recipe is easy to customize, quick to make, and guaranteed to disappear from the plate. Let’s get roasting!
For best Pinterest visibility, post this side pin as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days: anchor main dish first, followed complementary sides, finishing with a dessert completion pin.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Perfect Crispy Texture
The high-heat roasting and parchment paper line ensure a crunchy exterior while keeping the potato tender inside—a pro technique for restaurant-worthy results at home.
💰 Simple, Affordable Ingredients
Olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic are pantry staples that create incredible depth of flavor without breaking the bank.
👥 Inclusive for All Diets
These all-vegan potatoes are free from dairy, gluten, soy, and animal products, making them perfect for plant-based, vegan, and food-sensitive eaters.
🌟 Holiday Party Approved
With their golden color and aromatic herbs, these potatoes bring festive warmth to any table and pair beautifully with roasted mains.
Vegan Garlic-Herb Roasted Potatoes
Crispy, golden, and holiday-ready plant-based comfort.
🛒 Ingredients
- - 2 ½ lbs russet potatoes
- - ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- - 5 cloves garlic, minced
- - 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- - 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- - 1 tsp sea salt
- - ½ tsp black pepper
- - Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Potatoes: Wash and cut potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Soak in cold water 15 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry thoroughly.
💡 Patting completely dry ensures crispiness!
Mix Seasonings: In a bowl, whisk olive oil with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional paprika until combined.
💡 Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor impact.
Coat Potatoes: Transfer potatoes to a large bowl. Pour the herb mixture over them and toss until fully coated in an even layer.
💡 Work in batches if needed to avoid clumping.
Roast: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread potatoes in a single layer. Roast at 425°F (218°C) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
💡 For extra crispiness, use two baking sheets.
Serve: Remove when golden brown and cooked through. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm as a Thanksgiving side dish.
💡 Pair perfectly with a cranberry sauce or vegan main.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes
Their high starch content creates a fluffy interior and crispy exterior. For a sweet twist, try baby Yukon golds.
Substitutions: Any starchy potato (Yukon gold, sweet potato) works well.
Olive Oil
Provides richness and carries the herbs. Choose a mild, unfiltered option for the best flavor.
Substitutions: Avocado oil, light coconut oil (for nutty flavor) or vegetable oil.
Fresh Herbs
Rosemary and thyme add savory warmth. Don’t substitute dried herbs—they won’t deliver the same brightness.
Substitutions: Fresh oregano, sage, or marjoram for different flavor profiles.
Spices
Sea salt enhances natural flavors. Smoked paprika adds a subtle depth—optional but recommended.
Substitutions: Substitute with garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Pro Tips for Perfect Roasted Potatoes
🧂 Dry Thoroughly
Always pat the potatoes completely dry after soaking—any moisture will prevent golden browning.
🔥 Hot Oven Essential
Preheat to 450°F before adding potatoes to activate Maillard browning reactions for that crispy edge.
🔄 Don’t Overcrowd
Use two baking sheets if needed—too much space prevents proper heat circulation.
🌿 Fresh Herbs Only
Dry herbs will burn at high temps. Use 100% fresh for the most aromatic finish.
Variations & Customizations
Garlic Lovers Edition
Double the minced garlic! Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder to the seasoning mix for intense roasted garlic flavor.
Color Boost
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a rich hue and smoky depth that photographs beautifully for the holidays.
Spicy Twist
Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1 sliced jalapeño to the seasoning. Perfect with vegan aioli on the side.
Sweet Potato Version
Use sweet potatoes for a candy-like, caramelized flavor. Roast at 400°F to preserve their natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roasted vegan butternut squash: The sweet-tart flavor contrasts beautifully with the savory potatoes.
- Stuffed portobello mushrooms: Add umami-rich vegan mains that complement the herbaceous flavors.
- Quinoa cranberry salad: Bring festive colors and nutrition to your plate for a complete holiday meal.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Serve with smoky chai tea, a crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), or non-dairy sparkling water for holiday cheer.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Pre-cut potatoes up to 8 hours ahead. Store in cold water until ready to cook. Dry thoroughly before tossing with herbs.
Refrigerator Storage
Cool completely then store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooled potatoes in ziplock bags for up to 3 months. Thaw, re-crisp in oven, and serve.
Reheating Instructions
Place on baking sheet and reheat in 350°F oven until crispy and warmed through—5-10 minutes for best results.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: How do I fix soggy potatoes?
A: Ensure potatoes are completely dry before roasting. Spread in one even layer on parchment paper and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes—roast fully, then reheat in a 350°F oven until warm. Add fresh herbs at serving time for maximum freshness.
Q: Why aren’t my potatoes golden?
A: Ensure oil coats potatoes evenly. Check oven temperature—it should reach at least 425°F to achieve the right browning.
Q: How do I make them extra crispy?
A: Soak potatoes longer (up to 30 minutes) to remove more starch. Bake on upper oven rack for last 5-10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These vegan roasted potatoes are a game-changer for holiday meals. Their crispy texture and aromatic herbs elevate simple ingredients into a show-stopping side. Everyone from family members to vegan guests will love this easy, comforting dish.
Pin it now for Thanksgiving, use it during weeknight dinners, or share with friends looking for plant-based ideas. For best Pinterest visibility, post this side pin as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days.
