Perfect Sliced Potatoes in Oven with Butter and Garlic

Perfectly crispy sliced potatoes with garlic and butter in the oven require just 45 minutes at 425°F (220°C) with thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes, fresh garlic, and unsalted butter. This simple method delivers golden-brown, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and no flipping required.

There's nothing quite like the aroma of garlic and butter-infused potatoes fresh from the oven. This foolproof technique transforms humble spuds into a side dish that rivals what you'd find in high-end restaurants, yet requires minimal hands-on time. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or special occasion meal, these oven-roasted potato slices deliver consistent crispiness and rich flavor that will become your go-to preparation method.

Why This Oven Method Works Best

The secret to achieving perfectly cooked sliced potatoes lies in understanding the science of starch and moisture. According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, potatoes contain approximately 79% water, which must properly evaporate during cooking to achieve crispiness without burning. By slicing potatoes uniformly thin (⅛ inch thick) and arranging them in a single layer, you create optimal conditions for even cooking and maximum surface area exposure to dry heat.

Potato Variety	Best For	Cooking Time	Flavor Profile
Yukon Gold	Best all-purpose choice	40-45 minutes	Buttery, rich
Russet	Crispiest exterior	45-50 minutes	Earthy, neutral
Red Potatoes	Softer texture	35-40 minutes	Sweet, waxy

Essential Tools for Perfect Results

While you can make this recipe with basic kitchen equipment, these tools significantly improve your results:

• Mandoline slicer (for uniform ⅛-inch slices)
• Heavy-duty rimmed baking sheet (prevents warping)
• Parchment paper (for easy cleanup and non-stick surface)
• Meat thermometer (to verify internal temperature)

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Potato Selection and Slicing

Choose medium-sized Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2½ inches in diameter) for optimal results. Larger potatoes often have more hollow centers that cook unevenly. Using a mandoline set to ⅛-inch thickness, slice potatoes uniformly. According to culinary research from the University of Illinois Extension, consistent thickness is the single most important factor in achieving even cooking—varying thickness by just 1/16 inch can create a 15% difference in cooking time.

2. Proper Seasoning Technique

Combine 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter with 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. The key to maximizing garlic flavor without burning is to add half the garlic before baking and the remaining half during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This technique prevents the harsh compounds in raw garlic from dominating the flavor profile while still delivering that signature garlic aroma.

3. Oven Arrangement for Maximum Crispiness

Arrange potato slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet with no overlapping. For best results, position the baking sheet on the middle rack of a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven. The USDA National Agricultural Library confirms that 425°F represents the optimal temperature for the Maillard reaction in potatoes—below this temperature, browning occurs too slowly; above it, the exterior burns before the interior cooks through.

4. Cooking Process Timeline

Follow this precise cooking sequence for perfect results:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) for at least 20 minutes
2. Arrange potatoes in single layer, brush with half the butter mixture
3. Bake for 20 minutes without disturbing
4. Flip potatoes carefully using thin spatula
5. Brush with remaining butter mixture (including second half of garlic)
6. Bake additional 15-25 minutes until golden brown and tender

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks make these critical errors when preparing sliced potatoes in the oven:

• Overcrowding the pan: Creates steam that prevents crispiness
• Using salted butter: Salt lowers smoke point and causes burning
• Flipping too early: Wait until potatoes release easily from parchment
• Skipping the flip: Ensures even browning on both sides

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These garlic butter potatoes pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a holiday spread. For variations:

• Herb-infused: Add thyme or oregano to the butter mixture
• Cheesy version: Sprinkle Parmesan during last 5 minutes of baking
• Spicy kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne to the seasoning blend
• Lemon-herb: Toss with lemon zest and parsley after baking

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain crispiness when reheating:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C)
2. Spread potatoes in single layer on baking sheet
3. Reheat for 8-12 minutes until heated through

Avoid microwaving, which creates a soggy texture. For best results, reheat only the portion you plan to eat immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best potato variety for oven-roasted sliced potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes offer the ideal balance of starch and moisture for perfectly crispy yet tender oven-roasted slices. Their naturally buttery flavor complements the garlic and butter seasoning exceptionally well. Russet potatoes create a crispier exterior but can become too dry if overcooked.

Can I make these potatoes without flipping them?

While you can make sliced potatoes without flipping, flipping them halfway through cooking ensures even browning on both sides and prevents sticking. The critical window for flipping is between 20-25 minutes when the potatoes have released from the parchment paper but haven't fully crisped. Skipping this step often results in uneven texture and color.

How do I prevent my garlic from burning in the oven?

To prevent garlic from burning, add half the minced garlic to the initial butter mixture and reserve the other half to apply during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This technique delivers maximum garlic flavor without the bitter, burnt notes that develop when garlic is exposed to high heat for extended periods.

What's the ideal thickness for sliced potatoes in the oven?

The ideal thickness is ⅛ inch (3mm), which provides the perfect balance between crisp exterior and tender interior. Thinner slices become overly crispy and dry, while thicker slices (¼ inch or more) often remain undercooked in the center before the exterior browns. Use a mandoline for consistent results.