Cajun Spiced Roasted Potatoes

The smell of smoked paprika hitting hot olive oil still takes me back to my first apartment kitchen, where I learned that Cajun seasoning could transform even the humblest ingredients into something exciting.

I brought these to a friends summer potluck last year, and honestly, watching people go back for thirds while asking what was in the seasoning mix was all the validation I needed.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces: Baby potatoes hold their shape better and develop these incredible crispy edges without falling apart
• 2 tbsp olive oil: This helps the spices cling to every surface and creates that golden exterior we are all after
• 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika: The deep smoky flavor is what sets these apart from ordinary roasted potatoes
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Distributes garlic flavor evenly without the risk of burning bits like fresh garlic
• 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a savory backbone that complements the other spices beautifully
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbal note that balances the heat
• ½ tsp dried thyme: Subtle but essential, it rounds out the spice blend with a gentle aromatic quality
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper, adjust to taste: Start here and go up if you love heat, or scale back for milder palates
• ½ tsp black pepper: Adds warmth and complements the Cajun profile
• 1 tsp salt: Essential to make all those spices sing
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving: Brightens everything up and cuts through the rich spices

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, trust me, cleanup will thank you later

Coat the potatoes:

Toss the potato pieces in olive oil until every surface glistens, this is what creates that beautiful crunch

Mix your spice blend:

Combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl

Add the magic:

Sprinkle the spice blend over the oiled potatoes and toss until every piece is generously coated

Arrange for success:

Spread the potatoes in a single layer without crowding, crowded pans mean steamed potatoes instead of crispy ones

Roast to perfection:

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden with those irresistible crispy edges

Finish with freshness:

Sprinkle with parsley and serve alongside lemon wedges for squeezing over just before eating

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My partner now requests these specifically for Sunday dinner, and hearing the crunch of that first bite has become a little ritual we both look forward to.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

Yukon Golds have that perfect creamy interior while baby potatoes develop incredible crispy skins, so either choice will give you that satisfying contrast between textures.

Customizing the Heat Level

I have learned to make a mild batch and a spicy one separately when feeding a mixed crowd, letting everyone season to their preferred comfort level.

Make Ahead Strategy

You can cut and toss the potatoes with oil and spices up to a day ahead, then roast them just before serving for maximum freshness.

• Store the prepped potatoes in the refrigerator until ready to roast
• Add an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold
• They reheat beautifully at 375°F for about 10 minutes

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These potatoes have become my go to for bringing people together around the table, and that is the best seasoning of all.

Recipe Q&A

→ What type of potatoes work best for this dish?

Baby potatoes or Yukon Gold cut into 1-inch pieces roast evenly and develop a nice crispy texture.

→ Can the spice blend heat be adjusted?

Yes, the amount of cayenne pepper can be increased or decreased based on preferred spice level.

→ Is olive oil the best choice for roasting?

Olive oil helps the spices adhere to the potatoes while promoting even browning during roasting.

→ How do I ensure potatoes come out crispy?

Roast at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) on a single layer and flip halfway for even crispiness.

→ What garnishes complement these potatoes?

Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, while lemon wedges offer a bright citrus contrast.

→ Can I substitute sweet potatoes?

Sweet potatoes can be used for a slightly sweeter and soft variation with the same spice blend.