If you’re looking for a comforting, no-fuss side dish that never fails to please, this Simple Boiled Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and minimal effort, you get tender, flavorful potatoes that melt in your mouth and pair beautifully with almost any meal. Whether you leave the skins on for texture or peel them for a smoother bite, these boiled potatoes offer pure, wholesome goodness that’s both satisfying and versatile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Simple Boiled Potatoes Recipe leans on a few simple but essential ingredients, each contributing to the final dish’s classic flavor and appealing texture. Having quality potatoes and freshly picked herbs on hand really elevates this humble side.
- 2 pounds Medium-sized Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red): Choose firm potatoes for the best texture and consistent cooking.
- 1-2 tablespoons Salt: Adding salt to the boiling water infuses flavor deep into the potatoes as they cook.
- 4-6 cups Water: Enough to fully submerge the potatoes, ensuring even cooking every time.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill): These bring a fresh burst of color and aroma as a finishing touch when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Simple Boiled Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. This removes any grit or dirt that could spoil the texture or taste. You can choose to peel them if you want a smoother bite, or leave the skins on for a more rustic feel and added nutrients.
Step 2: Cut Into Even Pieces
Cut your potatoes into uniform 1-2 inch chunks. This helps them cook evenly, so you won’t end up with some pieces mushy while others remain too firm. Consistency is key for that perfect fork-tender finish.
Step 3: Boil the Potatoes
Fill a large pot with 4 to 6 cups of water and add the salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat before gently lowering in your potato pieces. The salt in the water boosts the flavor significantly, making each bite more delicious.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Reduce the heat to medium-high and let the potatoes boil gently for 15 to 20 minutes. You want them fork-tender — an easy way to check is by piercing a piece with a fork; it should glide in without resistance. Perfectly cooked potatoes will hold their shape but be soft all the way through.
Step 5: Drain and Garnish
Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit briefly so excess water evaporates. For extra flair and freshness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the hot potatoes just before serving. This simple touch takes the dish from plain to pleasing in seconds.
How to Serve Simple Boiled Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill are classic choices, lending brightness and a subtle herbal note to your boiled potatoes. For a richer touch, drizzle some melted butter or a splash of good olive oil. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or smoked paprika can add depth and a little kick.
Side Dishes
This Simple Boiled Potatoes Recipe is a versatile companion to so many meals. Serve it alongside roast chicken, grilled fish, sautéed greens, or hearty stews. The neutral flavor complements bold meats and saucy dishes alike, making it a reliable side whenever inspiration strikes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, mash the boiled potatoes with a bit of garlic and cream to create a smooth mash or turn them into a colorful potato salad with mustard dressing and crunchy celery bits. You can even quickly pan-fry boiled potatoes for crispy edges that add texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover boiled potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making them a great component to repurpose in meals throughout the week without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
While freezing boiled potatoes is possible, it can change their texture slightly, making them best suited for mashing or soups after thawing. If you plan to freeze, flash-cool the potatoes and pack them tightly in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat boiled potatoes gently to preserve their softness. Steaming or microwaving covered with a damp paper towel works well. Avoid overheating, which can dry them out, especially if reheated without any moisture or fat.
FAQs
Can I use any type of potato for this Simple Boiled Potatoes Recipe?
Yes, but Yukon Gold and red potatoes are preferred because they hold their shape well while becoming tender. Starchy potatoes like Russets may fall apart more easily when boiled.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
No, peeling is optional. Keeping the skins on adds texture, color, and nutrients, but peeling results in a smoother and more delicate bite—both are delicious in their own right.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The best indicator is a fork test. Insert a fork into a potato piece; it should slide in easily without resistance, indicating the potato is tender all the way through.
Should I salt the water before or after it boils?
Adding salt to the water before it boils is ideal, as it allows the salt to dissolve evenly and infuse the potatoes with flavor as they cook.
Can I add other flavorings to the boiling water?
Absolutely! You can add garlic cloves, bay leaves, or peppercorns to the water to impart subtle flavor twists to your potatoes, enhancing but not overpowering the simple taste.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Boiled Potatoes Recipe is a true kitchen staple that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to accompany your favorite holiday feast. I encourage you to try it, play with garnishes and sides, and make it your go-to foundation for countless delicious meals.
Print
Simple Boiled Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Simple Boiled Potatoes recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare tender, flavorful potatoes perfect as a versatile side dish. Using basic ingredients and straightforward boiling techniques, this dish highlights the natural taste and texture of medium-sized Yukon Gold or Red potatoes, garnished with fresh herbs for a subtle aromatic finish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Medium-sized Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red) – choose firm potatoes for best results
Seasoning
- 1–2 tablespoons Salt – essential for flavor; add to water before boiling
Liquids
- 4–6 cups Water – enough to fully submerge the potatoes
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill) – for garnish after cooking
Instructions
- Wash Potatoes: Thoroughly rinse the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris, ensuring they are clean before cooking.
- Peel if Desired: Peel the potatoes if you prefer a smoother texture, or leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients.
- Cut Potatoes: Chop the potatoes into evenly sized pieces about 1-2 inches in diameter to ensure uniform cooking.
- Prepare Boiling Water: Fill a large pot with 4-6 cups of water, enough to fully cover the potatoes, and add 1-2 tablespoons of salt to flavor the water.
- Bring to Boil: Place the pot on high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Add Potatoes: Carefully submerge the cut potatoes into the boiling water, making sure they are completely covered.
- Boil Potatoes: Reduce heat to medium-high and let the potatoes boil for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
- Check Doneness: Test the potatoes by inserting a fork; it should pass through easily with no resistance.
- Drain Water: Pour the potatoes into a colander to drain, allowing them to sit for a minute to evaporate any excess water.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the fresh herbs over the hot potatoes for added flavor and aroma.
- Serve: Serve the boiled potatoes warm as a side dish, optionally drizzled with olive oil or melted butter for extra richness.
Notes
- For firmer texture, peel the potatoes before boiling; leaving skins on gives more texture and nutrients.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on dietary needs.
- You can add a splash of olive oil or melted butter to enhance flavor before serving.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill add a bright, fresh note but are optional.
- Ensure potatoes are cut into even sizes for consistent cooking.
