These Garlic Dill Potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that elevates everyday meals.
Packed with fresh garlic and aromatic dill, they provide a satisfying, fiber-rich option while remaining low in saturated fat.
Quick to prepare and full of good fats from butter and olive oil, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
25-Minute Flavorful Garlic Dill Potatoes
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot
- 1 strainer or colander
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 knife
- 1 mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs small potatoes
- Water enough to cover potatoes for boiling
- 1 ½ tsp salt plus extra to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 10 garlic cloves finely minced or crushed
- ¾ cup fresh dill finely chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by selecting small, uniform potatoes for even cooking. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. If desired, you can lightly scrub the skins to ensure they’re clean. Leaving the skins on adds texture, flavor, and fiber to the dish. Once cleaned, set the potatoes aside in a colander to drain excess water.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the washed potatoes in a large pot. Add enough water to completely cover the potatoes, ensuring they cook evenly. Sprinkle in a generous pinch of salt—this will enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes while they cook. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady simmer.Cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The potatoes should feel soft but not falling apart.
- Drain and Dry the Potatoes: Carefully drain the boiled potatoes using a colander. Shake gently to remove any excess water, which will help the seasonings adhere better. If you prefer a slightly crisp exterior, you can return the drained potatoes to the pot and allow them to sit on low heat for a minute or two to evaporate remaining moisture.
- Mince the Garlic: While the potatoes are boiling, peel and finely mince or crush 10 garlic cloves. Crushing the garlic releases more flavor, giving the dish its signature aromatic punch. Set the minced garlic aside, ready to infuse the potatoes with its rich, savory taste.
- Chop the Fresh Dill: Wash and finely chop about 3/4 cup of fresh dill. The dill adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the richness of butter and garlic. Chop it evenly to ensure each bite has a consistent flavor profile.
- Combine Butter and Olive Oil: In the same large pot or a mixing bowl, add 4 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. The combination of butter and olive oil balances flavor and healthy fats, giving the potatoes a silky texture without being greasy. Allow the butter to soften slightly from the heat of the potatoes so it blends easily.
- Season the Potatoes: Gently add the drained potatoes back into the pot with the butter and olive oil mixture. Sprinkle in the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt (or to taste) and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Add the minced garlic and chopped dill, folding everything together gently. Use a soft spatula or spoon to toss the potatoes so the seasonings coat each piece evenly without breaking them apart.
- Toss Until Fully Coated: Carefully toss the potatoes for 2–3 minutes over low heat, ensuring the garlic and dill are evenly distributed and the butter has fully melted. The heat will slightly cook the garlic, releasing its aroma and flavor without overpowering the dish. Taste a small piece to adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the Garlic Dill Potatoes to a serving dish immediately while still warm. These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh dill if desired for added color and freshness.
- Optional Tips for Extra Flavor: For a richer taste, lightly roast the garlic in the butter before tossing with the potatoes. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a subtle tang, which balances the richness and enhances the herbaceous notes.
Notes
- Small, evenly sized potatoes cook more evenly and absorb flavors better.
- Keep the potato skins on for extra fiber, nutrients, and texture.
- Minced garlic gives a bold flavor, but roasting it first mellows the taste.
- Fresh dill adds brightness and balances the richness of butter and olive oil.
- Olive oil combined with butter provides healthy fats and prevents the potatoes from being greasy.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if serving alongside other seasoned dishes.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; the potatoes can become soft if left too long.
- Perfect for meal prep—flavors develop even more after a few hours in the fridge.
- Optional lemon juice or zest adds a fresh, tangy kick.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled fish, or light salads.
Chef’s Secrets: Tips For Perfect Potatoes
The key to perfect Garlic Dill Potatoes lies in selecting the right potatoes and handling them gently.
Small, uniform potatoes ensure consistent cooking and better absorption of flavors.
Don’t overboil—potatoes should be tender but still hold their shape.
Using both butter and olive oil creates a smooth, rich coating while keeping the dish light and satisfying.
Always toss the potatoes gently with the garlic and dill to evenly distribute flavor without breaking them.
For a subtle variation, lightly roasting the garlic beforehand adds a caramelized sweetness.
A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving can elevate the flavor profile and balance the richness of the butter.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Pairing Ideas
Garlic Dill Potatoes are versatile and can complement a variety of dishes.
Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or seared steak for a hearty dinner.
They also pair beautifully with lighter options like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus for a balanced, fiber-rich meal.
For a casual twist, toss the potatoes with a little extra fresh dill and a drizzle of olive oil and serve them as part of a brunch spread or picnic.
These potatoes are also ideal for meal prep, as reheating intensifies the garlic and herb flavors.
Storage Tips: Keep Potatoes Fresh Longer
Store leftover Garlic Dill Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain their texture and flavor.
Avoid microwaving directly, as it can make the potatoes soft and slightly mushy.
If desired, you can add a small pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating to refresh the flavors.
For longer storage, these potatoes can also be frozen after cooking, though the texture may soften slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use large potatoes instead?
Yes, but cut them into smaller, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Large whole potatoes may cook unevenly and affect texture.
2. Should I peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Keeping the skins adds fiber, nutrients, and extra texture, while also enhancing the rustic appeal of the dish.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Replace butter with a plant-based butter or extra olive oil to maintain richness without dairy.
4. How can I intensify the garlic flavor?
For a stronger garlic punch, roast the garlic cloves lightly before mixing them in, or increase the quantity slightly based on your preference.
5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can boil the potatoes in advance and store them separately. Toss them with the butter, olive oil, garlic, and dill just before serving to retain freshness and flavor.
