15-Minute Crispy Potatoes

Featured in: Main Dishes

These golden potatoes become crispy on the outside while staying tender inside in just 15 minutes. Start by slicing potatoes, then steam them briefly in the microwave. After draining, toss with olive oil, spices, and cornstarch to ensure a crunchy exterior. Arrange in a single layer on parchment and microwave again for a crisp finish. Garnish with fresh parsley and flaky sea salt for an easy, quick snack or side.

Updated on Mon, 17 Nov 2025 14:39:00 GMT
Crispy 15-Minute Microwave Potatoes, golden brown and sprinkled with fresh parsley, ready to enjoy. Save
Crispy 15-Minute Microwave Potatoes, golden brown and sprinkled with fresh parsley, ready to enjoy. | cheerfulchefs.com

Perfectly golden and crispy potatoes with a tender interior, ready in just 15 minutes using a clever microwave hack. Ideal for quick snacks or easy sides.

I first tried these when my oven was out of commission and was amazed at how crispy and delicious they turned out in just a few minutes using the microwave. Now, it's my go-to solution for speedy snacks or last-minute sides that feel special.

Ingredients

  • Potatoes: 2 medium russet potatoes (about 400 g), scrubbed
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp
  • Cornstarch: 1 tsp
  • Garlic powder: ½ tsp
  • Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
  • Salt: ½ tsp
  • Black pepper: ¼ tsp
  • Fresh parsley (optional): 1 tbsp chopped
  • Flaky sea salt (optional): to taste

Instructions

Prep & slice:
Slice the potatoes into ¼-inch (0.5 cm) thick rounds or wedges.
Microwave to tender:
Place potato pieces in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 tbsp water, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 5 minutes until just tender.
Season & coat:
Drain excess water. Add olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the potatoes. Toss to coat evenly.
Arrange & microwave:
Arrange potato pieces in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate lined with parchment paper.
Crisp:
Microwave uncovered on high for 4–5 minutes, flip each piece, then microwave for another 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Serve:
Transfer to a plate and sprinkle with parsley and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately.
These microwaved Crispy Potatoes feature a delightful crunch, seasoned with smoked paprika and served hot. Save
These microwaved Crispy Potatoes feature a delightful crunch, seasoned with smoked paprika and served hot. | cheerfulchefs.com

These potatoes are always the first to vanish at family gatherings—even my picky cousin loves them, especially with a sprinkle of parmesan at the end.

Required Tools

Microwave, microwave-safe bowl, plate or microwave-safe lid, parchment paper, knife, cutting board.

Allergen Information

Contains no common allergens. Always check labels for cornstarch or spice blends.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 180. Total Fat: 7 g. Carbohydrates: 28 g. Protein: 3 g.

Discover the easy method for making perfectly crispy 15-Minute Microwave Potatoes, a delicious side dish. Save
Discover the easy method for making perfectly crispy 15-Minute Microwave Potatoes, a delicious side dish. | cheerfulchefs.com

Enjoy these microwave crispy potatoes hot and fresh for the best texture—they're sure to satisfy your cravings in a flash.

Recipe FAQs

How do I get potatoes crispy in the microwave?

Lightly coating the potatoes with olive oil and cornstarch after steaming helps create a crispy surface when microwaved uncovered.

What type of potatoes works best for this method?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, but Yukon Gold can also yield good results.

Can I add extra flavor before cooking?

Yes, sprinkling cayenne or grated parmesan before microwaving can enhance the taste.

Is it necessary to use parchment paper when microwaving?

Parchment paper prevents sticking and helps achieve even cooking on the microwave-safe plate.

How can I make the potatoes crispier?

For extra crunch, finish the potatoes under a broiler for 1–2 minutes after microwaving.

15-Minute Crispy Potatoes

Tender, golden potatoes with a crispy coating, made quickly using a simple microwave technique.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Overall Time
15 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Main Dishes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Background Global

Portions 2 Serves

Dietary Preferences Vegan-Friendly, Dairy-Free Option, Gluten-Free Option

What You’ll Need

Potatoes

01 2 medium russet potatoes (7 ounces each), scrubbed

Coating

01 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 1 teaspoon cornstarch
03 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
04 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
05 ½ teaspoon salt
06 ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish (optional)

01 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
02 Flaky sea salt to taste

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Slice Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds or wedges.

Step 02

Pre-cook Potatoes: Place potato pieces in a microwave-safe bowl, add 2 tablespoons water, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 5 minutes until just tender.

Step 03

Drain and Season: Drain excess water, then add olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 04

Arrange for Crisping: Spread coated potato pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined microwave-safe plate.

Step 05

Microwave Until Crispy: Microwave uncovered on high for 4 to 5 minutes, flip each piece, then microwave for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crisp. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 06

Garnish and Serve: Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle with chopped parsley and flaky sea salt if desired, and serve immediately.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Microwave
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Plate or microwave-safe lid
  • Parchment paper
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains no common allergens; verify cornstarch and spice blend labels.

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 180
  • Fats: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams