15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes

Featured in: Simple Weeknight Recipes

This quick method yields perfectly golden and crispy potatoes with a tender inside, all cooked in just 15 minutes using the microwave. Start by slicing potatoes and steaming them briefly to soften. Then toss with olive oil, cornstarch, and spices for a flavorful coating. Microwave uncovered to achieve a crisp texture, finishing with fresh parsley and sea salt for a tasty touch. An ideal choice for easy snacks or side dishes when time is limited.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:06:00 GMT
Golden, crispy 15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes, perfect side dish, seasoned and ready to enjoy. Save to Pinterest
Golden, crispy 15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes, perfect side dish, seasoned and ready to enjoy. | mellowspice.com

Perfectly golden and crispy potatoes with a tender interior are ready in just 15 minutes with a clever microwave hack. This is ideal for anyone needing a delicious quick snack or a simple side dish that will please any crowd.

I discovered this method when I needed speedy comfort food after a long day and was amazed by how crisp the potatoes turned out with zero stovetop mess. Now, it is my go-to on weeknights—even my friends request this microwave version!

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

Slice Potatoes
Slice potatoes into ¼-inch (0.5 cm) thick rounds or wedges.
Microwave Initial Cook
Place pieces in microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 tbsp water, cover loosely, microwave on high for 5 minutes until just tender.
Coat with Seasoning
Drain excess water. Add olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Arrange and Microwave
Arrange coated pieces in single layer on large microwave-safe plate lined with parchment paper.
Crisp the Potatoes
Microwave uncovered on high for 4 minutes. Flip each piece, microwave 2–3 minutes more until golden and crispy. Watch to prevent burning as microwave power may vary.
Serve
Transfer to serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately.
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My favorite moment was sharing these crispy potatoes with my kids after school—they disappeared in minutes. We now have a tradition of making them for family movie nights.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

This recipe contains no common allergens. Always check your spice blend and cornstarch packaging to ensure gluten-free status.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 180 calories, 7 g fat, 28 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein.

Close-up of golden brown 15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes, expertly seasoned and perfectly cooked. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of golden brown 15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes, expertly seasoned and perfectly cooked. | mellowspice.com

Try these potatoes as a side for burgers or your favorite sandwich. Make extra—everyone will want seconds!

Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture that crisps well, but Yukon Gold can also be used for a creamier bite.

How does cornstarch affect the potatoes?

Cornstarch helps absorb moisture and creates a crispy coating during microwaving, improving texture.

Can I add extra spices for flavor?

Yes, adding spices like cayenne or grated parmesan before cooking enhances taste and adds complexity.

Is flipping necessary during cooking?

Flipping the potato pieces halfway ensures even crisping on all sides for better texture.

Can I finish these potatoes under a broiler?

Finishing under the broiler for 1–2 minutes after microwaving adds extra crispness and a golden color.

15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes

Golden crispy potatoes cooked swiftly in the microwave, perfect for easy snacks or sides.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Overall Time
15 minutes
Created by Hannah Clarke

Recipe Category Simple Weeknight Recipes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Global

Total Yield 2 Number of Servings

Dietary Details Plant-Based, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You Need

Potatoes

01 2 medium russet potatoes (about 14 oz), 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

How To Make

Step 01

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

Step 02

Par-cook Potatoes: Place potato pieces in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons water. Cover loosely and microwave on high for 5 minutes until just tender.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Arrange for Crisping: Place coated potatoes in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate lined with parchment paper.

Step 05

Microwave Crisping: Microwave uncovered on high for 4 to 5 minutes. Flip each piece and microwave for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crispy, monitoring closely to avoid burning.

Step 06

Garnish and Serve: Transfer potatoes to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Review all components for potential allergens and talk to your doctor with any questions.
  • Contains no common allergens; verify cornstarch and spice blends on product labels.

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutritional breakdown is for your information and isn't a substitute for health advice.
  • Total Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 3 g