Rustic-Style Potatoes in Tomato Sauce

Rustic-Style Potatoes are a hearty, flavorful side dish packed with tender potatoes, sweet onions, and a savory tomato-herb sauce. Perfect for family dinners, cookouts, or cozy comfort meals, these "farmer’s potatoes" bring a touch of countryside simplicity to your table.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Bold and comforting flavors from tomato sauce, onion, and herbs.
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy.
• Easy to make in one pan—minimal cleanup!
• Perfectly versatile—serve with meat, fish, or eggs.

What Are Rustic-Style Potatoes?

Rustic-Style Potatoes, often called “farmer’s potatoes,” are a traditional European side dish that highlights humble ingredients like potatoes, onion, and herbs simmered in tomato sauce. This cozy, peasant-style recipe is popular in rural kitchens where pantry staples come together to create unforgettable flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Rustic Potatoes

• Cut potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
• Don’t rush the simmer—the long cooking time helps develop rich flavor.
• Use waxy potatoes (like Yukon Gold) to avoid mushiness.
• Add water if needed during cooking to prevent sticking.
• Garnish with fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of color and aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Sauce?

Yes, crushed or pureed canned tomatoes work well. Simmer a little longer to thicken.

What Type of Potatoes Are Best?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape nicely. Avoid overly starchy types like russets.

Can I Add Other Veggies?

Definitely—try bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

Is This Dish Spicy?

It has a mild kick from chili pepper, but you can adjust to taste or omit it entirely.

Can I Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! These potatoes taste even better the next day. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

How to Store Rustic-Style Potatoes

Let leftovers cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave until warmed through.

How to Freeze Rustic-Style Potatoes

Portion cooled potatoes into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a bit of olive oil or tomato sauce to refresh the flavor.

How to Make Rustic-Style Potatoes in Tomato Sauce

Step 1

Step 1

Wash, peel, and cube the potatoes. Peel and slice the onion.

Wash, peel, and cube the potatoes. Peel and slice the onion.

Step 2

Step 2

In a large pan, heat olive oil. Add onion and chili pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

In a large pan, heat olive oil. Add onion and chili pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Step 3

Stir in the potatoes. Season with salt. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring.

Stir in the potatoes. Season with salt. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring.

Step 4

Step 4

Add tomato sauce, pepper, thyme, and marjoram. Mix well. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add tomato sauce, pepper, thyme, and marjoram. Mix well. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

Step 5

Add fresh parsley and cook for 3–5 more minutes.

Add fresh parsley and cook for 3–5 more minutes.

Step 6

Step 6

Transfer to a dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle extra parsley on top.

Transfer to a dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle extra parsley on top.