Fondant Potatoes Recipe

If you have ever wanted to elevate a humble potato into something truly spectacular, then this Fondant Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Believe me, these golden, crispy on the outside and melt-in-the-middle on the inside potatoes are pure magic. They boast a buttery, herb-infused richness that feels both comforting and luxurious, perfect for those moments when you want to impress without fussing over complicated cooking. Once you get the hang of this technique, fondant potatoes will become a treasured favorite for any special meal or even a cozy upgrade to your weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this recipe are simple yet powerful, each adding a distinct layer of flavor, texture, or aroma. Using quality items will ensure your fondant potatoes turn out beautifully tender inside with a golden, crisp exterior.

• 4 large floury potatoes: Russets or King Edwards are best for that fluffy interior texture when cooked.
• 3/4 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to balance the buttery richness.
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps sear the potatoes to a perfect golden-brown crust.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Cubed for easy melting; it creates that luscious, basting liquid full of flavor.
• 6 thyme sprigs: Fresh thyme imparts a fragrant, earthy note that makes the dish taste restaurant-quality.
• 1 cup low sodium chicken stock or vegetable broth: The braising liquid ensures the potatoes cook tender without drying out.

How to Make Fondant Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 200°C (or 390°F, 180°C fan-forced). This step is important because the oven finish thoroughly cooks the potatoes to a soft, buttery interior after searing locks in the crispiness and flavor on the outside.

Step 2: Shape the Potatoes

Peel your potatoes and carve each into cylinders roughly 6cm wide and 7cm tall, then slice them in half to create shorter sections about 3.5cm tall. Forming the potatoes this way helps them cook evenly and gives that beautiful, uniform appearance that’s so satisfying.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Pat the potatoes dry to remove any extra moisture — this helps achieve the perfect golden crust. Toss them with half of your olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat evenly, enhancing both texture and seasoning.

Step 4: Sear the Potatoes

In a heavy ovenproof skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the potato pieces and cook each side for 6 to 8 minutes until crispy and golden, turning carefully to avoid breaking their shape. This step forms the signature caramelized crust that fondant potatoes are known for.

Step 5: Add Butter and Herbs

Drop in the cubed butter and thyme sprigs. As the butter melts, spoon it over the potatoes repeatedly. This basting infuses the potatoes with rich buttery flavor and herbal aroma that make this dish a standout.

Step 6: Add Stock and Bake

Pour in the chicken stock and bring the pan to a boil on the stove. Then, carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes so the potatoes become tender all the way through. Remember to baste again halfway through to keep them moist and flavorful.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once done, pull the skillet from the oven and give your potatoes a final baste with those beautiful pan juices. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of that crispy top and buttery, soft interior. A perfect accompaniment to an indulgent steak or a refined vegetable dish.

How to Serve Fondant Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme or a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving lifts the dish visually and adds pops of fresh herbal and salty flavor that complement the buttery potatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

Fondant potatoes are incredible paired with rich proteins like ribeye steak, roast chicken, or even pan-seared salmon. They also work wonderfully alongside bright, crisp vegetables such as buttered peas or steamed green beans for a balance of indulgence and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these golden cylinders stacked or leaning against your main dish for visual appeal. Alternatively, drizzle with a touch of herb-infused oil or a dollop of creamy garlic aioli to elevate the presentation and flavor complexity even further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover fondant potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their texture, although they are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispness.

Freezing

While freezing cooked fondant potatoes is possible, it’s not ideal as the texture may change and become slightly mealy when thawed. If you want to freeze, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month, but expect a softer finish upon reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the potatoes in a skillet with a little butter or oil over medium heat to restore the crispy exterior while ensuring the inside heats evenly. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

What type of potatoes work best for fondant potatoes?

Floury or starchy potatoes like Russets or King Edward potatoes are best because they become wonderfully fluffy inside while holding their shape during cooking.

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Absolutely. Vegetable stock works perfectly for a vegetarian-friendly option and still imparts great flavor to the fondant potatoes.

Is it necessary to baste the potatoes with butter?

Yes, basting with butter keeps the potatoes moist and rich while adding flavor and helping develop a gorgeous golden crust during cooking.

Can I prepare fondant potatoes ahead of time?

You can prepare them up to searing and then refrigerate before baking. Just bring them back to room temperature before finishing the oven step to ensure even cooking.

Why do the potatoes need to be cut into cylinders?

Cylindrical shapes ensure even cooking and create the classic visual appeal fondant potatoes are known for. It also helps achieve the perfect golden crust all around.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Fondant Potatoes Recipe, I promise these golden, buttery pieces will become a cherished part of your kitchen repertoire. They make any meal feel extra special without a fuss, and their satisfying crunch paired with a tender inside is just the kind of comforting indulgence everyone needs. So grab some potatoes, butter, and herbs, and treat yourself to this elegant yet simple classic—you will thank me later!

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