Description
Melting Potatoes are a deliciously buttery, herb-infused side dish featuring tender Yukon gold potatoes cooked to golden perfection in a cast iron skillet and finished in the oven. This recipe highlights simple seasonings like garlic, rosemary, thyme, and chicken broth to create a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly complements any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Herbs
- 1 ½ pounds Yukon gold potatoes (about 5 potatoes), peeled and sliced into one-inch-thick slices
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
Butter and Broth
- 1 stick butter (sliced and divided)
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to prepare for the final baking stage of the potatoes, ensuring even and quick cooking.
- Season the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the sliced Yukon gold potatoes with dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat and infuse them with herbaceous and savory flavors.
- Sear the potatoes: Melt half of the butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Arrange the seasoned potato slices evenly spaced in the skillet.
- Brown the potatoes (first side): Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes until the bottoms develop a light golden color, which adds texture and flavor.
- Brown the potatoes (second side): Flip the potatoes carefully and cook the other side similarly until also light golden brown.
- Add aromatics and liquids: Scatter the peeled garlic cloves around the potatoes and add the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth, which will help in steaming the potatoes while baking.
- Add remaining butter and bake: Place the remaining slices of butter on top of the potatoes evenly, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and everything is infused with rich buttery aroma.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme before serving for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- Use Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold form well when cooked.
- Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve a crisp and golden sear on the potatoes while also being oven-safe.
- Do not stir the potatoes during searing to ensure a nice golden crust forms.
- If you prefer vegetarian, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- For a stronger garlic flavor, lightly crush the garlic cloves before adding.
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated for best baking results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
