Smoky Paprika Roasted Potatoes

Name: Smoky Paprika Roasted Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds of baby potatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (like parsley), for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Smoky Paprika Roasted Potatoes for any gathering or just a cozy dinner at home. The way the vibrant colors and aromas fill the kitchen is simply irresistible! This dish combines the earthy flavor of potatoes with the smoky sweetness of paprika, creating a delightful contrast that pairs perfectly with almost any meal. Plus, it's an easy recipe that utilizes simple ingredients, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned cooks.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:37:13.935Z

When I first experimented with smoky paprika on roasted potatoes, I was blown away by how the flavor transformed a simple vegetable into something extraordinary. I tossed the potatoes with olive oil and my favorite spices, and the result was a crispy exterior with a tender inside that we couldn’t get enough of. I found that using a mix of sweet and smoked paprika really amplified the depth of flavor, making it one of my go-to side dishes.

One of my favorite tips is to make sure the potatoes are cut into even pieces. This ensures they cook uniformly, giving you that perfect crunch while keeping the insides fluffy. I also like to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving for an extra layer of freshness. Trust me, once you try them, these Smoky Paprika Roasted Potatoes will become a household favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly crispy on the outside and fluffy inside
A unique smoky flavor that elevates traditional roasted potatoes
Simple ingredients that make for a quick and easy side dish

      

The Role of Paprika

Paprika plays a crucial role in this dish, contributing both flavor and color. The smoked paprika infuses the potatoes with a rich, earthy smokiness that enhances their natural sweetness, while the sweet paprika adds a subtle depth that rounds out the flavor profile. If you don’t have smoked paprika, you could use regular paprika mixed with a dash of liquid smoke to achieve a similar effect.

The garlic powder not only complements the smokiness but also contributes to the potatoes’ overall savoriness. Together, these ingredients transform simple roasted potatoes into a standout side dish that can elevate any meal.

Consistency is Key

For perfectly roasted potatoes, consistency in size is important. Halving the baby potatoes allows for even cooking, ensuring that each piece gets crispy edges while remaining fluffy on the inside. Try to cut them into uniform sizes—about 1 to 1.5 inches in width. If you find that some pieces are cooking faster, remove them as they become golden brown to prevent burning.

At the halfway point during roasting, stir the potatoes to ensure even browning. You’ll know they’re ready when they are beautifully golden and easily pierced with a fork. This technique guarantees that every potato is dressed in that delicious smoky flavor!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the best smoky paprika roasted potatoes:

Ingredients

2 pounds of baby potatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (like parsley), for garnish

Make sure to prepare your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your smoky paprika roasted potatoes:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to achieve crispy edges on the potatoes.

Prepare Potatoes

In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until all potatoes are evenly coated.

Roast Potatoes

Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Enjoy your deliciously smoky and flavorful potatoes!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy potatoes, soak the halved potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before roasting to remove excess starch.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover roasted potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them as crispy as possible, reheat them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, tossing them halfway through. Avoid using a microwave, as this can make them soggy.

If you prefer to make these potatoes ahead of time, you can parboil them for about 10 minutes first, then coat them with the seasoning and olive oil. Spread them on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to roast them, enjoying a quicker cooking process later.

Serving Suggestions

Smoky Paprika Roasted Potatoes make an excellent side dish for a variety of meals. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a vegetarian option next to a rich salad. Consider serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor.

For a delightful twist, try using these potatoes as a base for a breakfast bowl topped with fried or poached eggs, avocado, and a drizzle of sriracha. The combination of textures and flavors will elevate your breakfast game!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, feel free to use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses only plant-based ingredients.

→ Can I add other spices?

Yes, feel free to experiment with spices like cayenne for heat or rosemary for an aromatic twist!