Cowboy Butter Potatoes Oven

Potatoes baked in a bath of garlicky cowboy butter have become my go—to side whenever I want something quick yet crave—worthy. They are crisp on the outside and meltingly soft on the inside with every bite coated in a rich, zingy, herbed butter.

I first made these for a backyard barbecue and the platter was cleared before the burgers even came off the grill. They are now a regular request whenever family visits.

Ingredients

• Red baby potatoes: Choose firm potatoes with smooth skin. Their waxy texture holds up well to roasting and keeps the insides creamy.
• Unsalted butter: Look for a high quality butter for the best flavor. This is the backbone of cowboy butter.
• Fresh parsley: Fresh herbs give a pop of color and freshness. Choose bright green bunches with no wilting.
• Garlic: Use fresh cloves if possible for the biggest burst of garlicky flavor. Garlic powder works if needed.
• Dijon mustard: This adds tang and dimension. Smooth Dijon will melt right in.
• Lemon juice: Fresh squeezed gives a zing that wakes up the other flavors.
• Paprika or smoked paprika: Smoked kind adds savoriness. Go for a fresh tin so the spices are punchy.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but highly recommended if you want a gentle kick.
• Salt and black pepper: These bring everything into balance so season to your taste.

Instructions

Make the Cowboy Butter:

Combine melted unsalted butter with minced garlic Dijon mustard fresh lemon juice chopped parsley paprika red pepper flakes and a pinch each of salt and black pepper. Stir deeply so the mustard and garlic are fully blended into the butter.

Prepare the Potatoes:

Preheat your oven to 425F. Arrange the halved red baby potatoes cut side down in a 9x13 baking dish no need to peel. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper over the top.

Coat with Cowboy Butter:

Pour the mixed cowboy butter over the potatoes. Use clean hands or a large spoon to toss the potatoes so every side glistens with the seasoned butter.

Bake the Potatoes:

Place the dish on a middle oven rack. Roast for 35 to 45 minutes tossing once halfway through. The potatoes are done when golden brown with irresistibly crispy edges and tender insides.

Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle the hot potatoes with more freshly minced parsley for color and fragrance. Serve immediately while the cowboy butter is still bubbling.

Pin it

My favorite element is the lemony cowboy butter which coats every piece so perfectly that we always scrape every bit from the pan. I will never forget when my niece asked for the recipe and now she bakes them for her friends in college.

Storage Tips

Store leftover potatoes tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat spread them on a baking sheet in a hot oven until they recover their crispiness. Microwaving works too but the edges will be softer.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out red potatoes for Yukon Golds or small white potatoes. Both hold their shape well when baked. If you are out of fresh parsley dried parsley works in a pinch though fresh creates a better pop of flavor and color. Garlic powder stands in for fresh garlic and smoked paprika makes a world of difference if you have it.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cowboy butter potatoes alongside steak roast chicken pork chops or a pile of vegetables for a vegetarian meal. At parties they are a hit passed as toothpick appetizers. Sometimes I tuck leftovers into omelets or breakfast hash.

A Bit of Cowboy Context

Cowboy butter is a classic American sauce that gets its name from the robust combination of butter garlic and spices often used in hearty western cooking. It was meant for campfire meals eaten with grilled meat but it is just as good slathered over baked potatoes. Combining those flavors at home always pulls me back to backyard cookouts with friends and family.

Pin it

The combination of crisp potato edges and savory cowboy butter is irresistible. Serve hot and enjoy every last bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get crispy edges on the potatoes?

For crispier results, make sure the potatoes are spaced out in a single layer and toss halfway through baking.

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes work well too. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on size.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute plant-based butter to make this dish dairy-free, keeping the rich flavor profile.

→ Can I prepare the cowboy butter ahead?

Absolutely. Mix the cowboy butter ingredients and keep chilled until ready to use for easier prep.

→ What can I serve with cowboy butter potatoes?

They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, poultry, or roasted vegetables for a hearty, flavorful meal.