Cajun Spiced Roasted Potatoes

The first time I made these Cajun potatoes, my kitchen filled with such incredible aromas that my neighbor actually knocked on the door to ask what I was cooking. I had been experimenting with different spice blends for roasted vegetables, but something about this combination just clicked. Now whenever I need a side dish that feels special but requires minimal effort, this is my go to recipe.

Last summer, I served these at a backyard barbecue and watched them disappear in minutes. My friend who claims to hate potatoes went back for thirds, and now she requests them every time she comes over. There is something about that smoky, herby combination that makes even picky eaters clean their plates.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes: These varieties hold their shape beautifully and develop the crispest edges without becoming mealy
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the potatoes and promotes even browning
• 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning: The backbone of flavor, but you can adjust based on your heat tolerance
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: Adds that irresistible smoky depth that makes these taste restaurant quality
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Provides mellow garlic flavor without any burnt bits
• ½ tsp onion powder: Rounds out the spice blend with subtle sweetness
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds just enough background warmth
• ½ tsp kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brings brightness and color that makes the dish pop
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves: Earthy and aromatic, thyme pairs perfectly with roasted potatoes

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Coat the potatoes:

In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil and all the spices until every piece is evenly covered

Arrange for success:

Spread the potatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, giving them space to get crispy

Roast to perfection:

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown with crispy edges

Finish with fresh herbs:

Remove from the oven and immediately toss with fresh parsley and thyme while still hot

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These potatoes have become such a staple in my house that I keep all the spices pre mixed in a jar. My daughter now requests them for her birthday dinner every year, which feels like the highest compliment a recipe could receive.

Making Them Your Own

I have discovered that the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne when I want extra heat, or I will throw in some roasted garlic cloves halfway through cooking. The base formula works beautifully with sweet potatoes too, though they need about 10 minutes less time in the oven.

Perfect Pairings

These potatoes are versatile enough to complement almost any main dish. I love serving them alongside grilled chicken or fish, but they are hearty enough to stand alone as a light vegetarian meal with a simple green salad. The bold spices also work wonderfully with blackened catfish or spicy jambalaya.

Make Ahead Magic

You can cut and soak the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in water in the refrigerator. Just drain and pat them completely dry before tossing with the spices. The herbs should always be fresh, but you can mix all the dry spices together weeks ahead and keep them in an airtight container.

• Leftovers reheat surprisingly well in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes
• They also make an excellent addition to breakfast hash the next morning
• Room temperature potatoes work well in potato salads with a light vinaigrette

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There is nothing quite like pulling a sheet of these golden, fragrant potatoes out of the oven and hearing that satisfying sizzle. I hope they become as loved in your kitchen as they are in mine.

Recipe Q&A

→ What type of potatoes work best for roasting?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and develop a crispy exterior while staying tender inside.

→ How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?

Soaking the cut potato cubes in cold water for 20 minutes before roasting helps remove excess starch for crisper results.

→ Can I adjust the spice levels?

Yes, adding cayenne pepper to the spice mix increases the heat, while reducing Cajun seasoning softens the flavor.

→ What herbs complement the Cajun spices?

Fresh parsley and thyme add a bright, aromatic finish that balances the bold spices.

→ Is this dish suitable for special diets?

It is vegetarian and gluten-free, though verify Cajun seasoning ingredients to avoid potential allergens.