Oven Roasted Potatoes and Onions

Oven Roasted Potatoes and Onions are a tasty and very tasty side dish, very easy to make. A richer and more appetizing variant of the classic baked potatoes, they are perfect to bring to the table as an accompaniment to any meat or fish course, or to enjoy as a vegetarian dish combined with fresh or aged cheese.

To prepare them, simply cut the potatoes into cubes and the onions into rings, season them with a generous drizzle of oil, a pinch of salt and pepper, a few sprigs of rosemary and a sprinkling of grated parmesan, and put everything in the oven at 392°F/200°C for 40 minutes: for a golden and fragrant result that will conquer everyone.

What Are Oven Roasted Potatoes and Onions?

Oven-roasted potatoes and onions have roots in traditional European cooking, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine, where they are often seasoned with herbs and olive oil for simple, flavorful side dishes. The concept of roasting vegetables, including potatoes and onions, became popular in various regions as cooking methods evolved.

In the U.S., roasted potatoes gained widespread popularity during the 20th century, especially with the rise of home cooking and the availability of ready-to-cook meals. Roasted potatoes became a staple at family dinners, holiday feasts, and BBQs, often paired with meats. The addition of onions to roasted potatoes enhances the dish’s flavor profile and makes it a versatile, comforting side. Over time, the dish has been adapted in American kitchens to suit regional tastes, from adding different seasonings to experimenting with various cooking oils.

Pro Tips for The Best Oven Roasted Potatoes and Onions

• Make sure the potatoes and onions are cut into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are burnt.
• Coat the potatoes and onions thoroughly with olive oil. This not only helps them roast evenly but also gives them that golden, crispy texture.
• Roast at a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C), to get crispy edges while keeping the inside tender. The high heat also enhances the caramelization of the onions, making them sweet and flavorful.
• To ensure an even roast, flip the potatoes and onions halfway through cooking. This helps both sides crisp up and avoids sticking to the pan.
• Give your potatoes and onions enough space on the baking sheet. Crowding can cause them to steam rather than roast, leading to soggy results. If needed, use two pans or cook in batches.
• Let the potatoes and onions rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This allows the flavors to settle and makes them easier to serve.

Can I Roast Potatoes and Onions Together?

Yes, onions and potatoes can be roasted together, and they make a great pairing! Both vegetables cook well at the same temperature, and their flavors complement each other perfectly. The sweetness of the caramelized onions balances the earthiness of the potatoes, while the high heat helps both achieve a crispy, golden exterior. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Should I Boil Potatoes Before Roasting Them?

If possible, buy yellow-fleshed potatoes, which are firmer and less floury than white ones, and soak them in cold water for about twenty minutes: this way they will lose some of their starch and will be even crispier. There's no need to boil them first!

Can I Roast Them in The Air Fryer Instead?

Yes, you can roast potatoes and onions in an air fryer! In fact, the air fryer is perfect for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Simply toss the potatoes and onions with olive oil and seasoning, and cook them in the air fryer basket at around 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Just make sure not to overcrowd the basket for the best results!

How Do I Reheat Them?

To reheat roasted potatoes and onions, the best method is to use an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture.

• In the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and spread the potatoes and onions in a single layer on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• If using an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This will help restore their crispy edges while keeping them warm and flavorful.

Can I Add Anything Else to This Roast?

Yes, you can definitely add more ingredients to your roast! Consider incorporating garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even bell peppers and carrots for extra flavor and color. For a savory twist add olives, capers, bacon, or sausage for a richer, more savory dish. Just ensure everything is cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

What Can I Serve Them With?

Roasted potatoes and onions pair well with a variety of dishes. They make an excellent side for grilled meats like steak, chicken, or pork, and can also complement seafood dishes like salmon or shrimp. For a vegetarian option, serve them with a fresh salad or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. They're also great with a dollop of sour cream, yogurt, or a tangy vinaigrette for added flavor.

Can I Make Them Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make roasted potatoes and onions ahead of time. Roast them as usual, then let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Just make sure not to overcook them initially so they stay fresh when reheated.

Do They Freeze Well?

Roasted potatoes and onions don’t freeze particularly well, as their texture can become mushy and less crispy when thawed.

How to Store Any Leftovers

To store leftover roasted potatoes and onions, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to help restore their crispy texture. Make sure to store them separately if you've added any additional ingredients like cheese or bacon to maintain freshness.

How to Make Oven Roasted Potatoes and Onions

Wash the potatoes thoroughly, peel them, cut them into cubes and place them in a large bowl.

Cover them with cold water and leave them to soak for 20 minutes: this way they will lose some of the starch and will be crispier.

Peel the onions and cut them into not too thin slices and set them aside.

Once the resting time has elapsed, drain the potatoes and dry them well with kitchen paper.

Place the potatoes on a baking tray lined with baking paper.

Add the onions.

Season with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Add salt to taste.

Sprinkle with a pinch of pepper.

Flavor with rosemary needles.

Mix the ingredients well.

Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.

Place in a preheated oven at 392°F/200°C, in fan-assisted mode, and leave to cook for approximately 40 minutes or until golden brown, taking care not to mix the potatoes and onions during cooking to avoid breaking them.

Enjoy!