Potatoes are one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, but there’s something uniquely satisfying about the flavor and texture of new potatoes, also called baby potatoes.
These small, tender potatoes are harvested before they reach full maturity, which makes them naturally sweeter, creamier, and thin-skinned. In this article, I will help you learn how to cook new potatoes properly with 4 easy recipes.
1. How to Boil New Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1kg / 2 lb baby potatoes (new potatoes), about 3cm / 1.2″ round (choose ones of similar size)
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter (no need to melt)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp chives, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
Equipment
- Large saucepan with lid
- Colander for draining
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Leave the skins on, as they add flavor and nutrients.
Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
Cook Until Tender: Boil for 15–20 minutes, depending on the size, until a knife inserted slides in easily but the potatoes don’t fall apart.
Drain and Season: Drain the potatoes in a colander. While still hot, return them to the pan and add butter, salt, pepper, dill, chives, and parsley. Toss gently until the butter melts and the herbs coat the potatoes evenly.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy as a side to grilled meats, fish, or a fresh salad.
Tip: For extra flavor, you can add a couple of garlic cloves or a bay leaf to the boiling water.
2. How to Cook New Potatoes in the Oven
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds new potatoes (red or yellow skinned), cleaned and halved or quartered
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 to 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment paper (optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
Prepare Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved or quartered potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and garlic. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Roast: Spread potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, sprinkled with extra rosemary if desired.
Tip: For even crispier potatoes, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before adding the potatoes.
3. How to Cook New Potatoes in Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 lb new potatoes (washed and scrubbed)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon season salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Equipment
- Microwave-safe dish with lid or plastic wrap
- Fork
Instructions
Prepare Potatoes: Halve or quarter the new potatoes for faster cooking. Place them in a microwave-safe dish.
Season: Add butter, olive oil, Italian seasoning, season salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
Cover and Cook: Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Microwave on high for 7–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Serve: Let rest for 1–2 minutes, then serve warm.
4. How to Cook New Potatoes in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds new potatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
Instructions
Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Potatoes: Toss halved new potatoes with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and salt in a bowl.
Cook: Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Serve: Transfer to a bowl, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket; this ensures even crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
What Are New Potatoes?
New potatoes, also known as baby potatoes, are young, small potatoes harvested before they reach full maturity. They have thin, delicate skins and a creamy, sweet interior. Because of their tender texture, they don’t need to be peeled before cooking.
Which Cooking Method Is Especially Good for New Potatoes?
Boiling with herbs and butter is the most traditional and widely loved method, as it highlights their natural sweetness and creaminess. However, roasting and air frying bring out a crispiness that’s hard to resist, while microwaving is excellent when you’re short on time.
How to Know When New Potatoes Are Cooked?
The simplest test is to insert a fork or knife into the center of a potato. If it goes in smoothly with little resistance, the potatoes are done. Overcooking can make them mushy, so keep an eye on timing.
New potatoes are a versatile, delicious ingredient that can adapt to any cooking method. Their naturally tender skins and creamy interiors make them a standout side dish with minimal effort. Next time you find a bag of fresh baby potatoes at the market, try one of these four methods and enjoy their unique taste and texture.
