Go Back
+ servings
The Best Fluffy and Crispy British-Style Sunday Roast Potatoes Recipe!

The Best Fluffy and Crispy British Sunday Roast Potatoes Recipe!

By Mona - Far From The Farm
May 26, 2026
Crispy fluffy British-style roast potatoes with rosemary and thyme baked until golden and perfect for Sunday dinners!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Makes: 4 (2-4 as a side)
Approximate cost $3.50
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 (2-4 as a side)
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: British
Calories: 633

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes
  • 1/2 tbsp Dried rosemary
  • 1/2 tbsp Dried thyme
  • 1/2 tbsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 3/4 cup Olive oil - ( divided )

Equipment

  • Paring knife
  • Large bowl
  • large pot
  • colander
  • Baking Sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • small bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Peel and wash the potatoes, removing any bruised or discolored spots.
    Cut larger potatoes into evenly sized pieces about 2 inches across.
  2. If the potatoes are older or slightly soft, place them into cold water for 15 minutes to help firm them up.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    Add the potatoes and parboil for 8-10 minutes until fork tender but not falling apart.
  4. Drain the potatoes into a colander and allow them to steam dry for a couple of minutes.
  5. Gently shake the potatoes around in the colander to rough up the edges.
    This creates the fluffy outside texture needed for crispy roast potatoes.
  6. Place the potatoes onto a foil lined baking sheet.
    Spread them out so they roast instead of steam.
  7. Pour about 1/2 cup olive oil over the potatoes and gently toss to coat.
  8. In a small bowl combine the rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
  9. Sprinkle half the seasoning mixture over the potatoes and toss gently.
  10. Pour over the remaining olive oil and add the rest of the seasoning mixture.
    Toss gently again until evenly coated.
  11. Bake in a preheated 400°F / 200°C oven for about 45 minutes.
    Optional: Toss halfway through cooking for more evenly crispy potatoes.
  12. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • Russet potatoes give the fluffiest texture and crispiest edges.
  • Yukon Gold potatoes work too but will have a creamier texture.
  • Do not skip the parboiling step.
  • Roughing up the potatoes in the colander is the secret to proper British roast potatoes.
  • Olive oil adds lovely flavor but vegetable oil also works well.

 

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best crispy texture.
  • Freezing is possible but the potatoes lose some crispiness after thawing.

 

Related Recipes

 

Nutrition

Calories: 633kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 8gFat: 41gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 30gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 1441mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 32IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.