Smoky Lemon–Honey Roasted Potatoes

Roasted potatoes are supposed to be simple—but simple does not have to mean boring. These smoky lemon–honey roasted potatoes are everything a great side dish should be: deeply crisp on the outside, fluffy in the center, and layered with bold, unexpected flavor. A hint of smoke, a flash of citrus, and a glossy finish that clings to every edge make these potatoes unforgettable. They feel indulgent without being heavy, familiar without being predictable, and they disappear fast—so consider doubling the batch.

This is not your standard garlic-and-olive-oil situation. The seasoning is intentional, the technique matters, and the payoff is worth it.

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

Ingredients

2½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (or red potatoes)

3 tablespoons olive oil

1½ teaspoons kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Zest of 1 lemon

1½ tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon butter

1½ tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Prep the potatoes

Preheat the oven to 425°F.

Cut the potatoes into 1½-inch chunks. Keep them uniform so they roast evenly.

Thoroughly dry the potatoes with a clean kitchen towel. Moisture is the enemy of crispness.

2. Season

In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with:

Olive oil

Kosher salt

Black pepper

Smoked paprika

Garlic powder

Lemon zest

Toss until every piece is evenly coated.

3. Roast

Spread the potatoes onto a bare metal sheet pan in a single layer. Do not crowd them.

Roast for 25 minutes, then flip each piece.

Return to the oven for 15–20 minutes, until deeply golden with crisp edges.

4. Make the rosemary crunch

While the potatoes finish roasting, melt the butter in a small pan over medium-low heat.

Add the chopped rosemary and cook for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant and lightly crisp.

Remove from heat immediately.

5. Finish

Transfer the hot potatoes to a serving bowl.

Drizzle with honey, then spoon the rosemary butter over the top.

Toss gently to coat. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Serve immediately.

Why These Work

Smoked paprika adds depth without heat

Lemon zest keeps the flavor bright and balanced

Honey is added after roasting so it glazes instead of burning

Rosemary is crisped separately for texture and aroma

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