15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes

Featured in: Savory Bites

These golden crispy potatoes are ready in just 15 minutes using a smart microwave technique. Start by slicing russet potatoes, steaming them briefly in the microwave, then coating with olive oil, cornstarch, and spices. Finish by microwaving uncovered to achieve a perfect crisp exterior while keeping the interior tender. Optionally enhance flavor with parsley garnish or a sprinkle of sea salt. This easy method provides a fast, satisfying side dish or snack with minimal preparation.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 15:07:00 GMT
Golden, crispy 15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes, seasoned with paprika and ready for a quick side. Save
Golden, crispy 15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes, seasoned with paprika and ready for a quick side. | cravebop.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 making these when short on time one busy evening and was amazed by how deliciously crisp they turned out. Now, this quick potato hack is my go-to for speedy sides and snacks.

Ingredients

  • Potatoes: 2 medium russet potatoes (about 400 g), scrubbed
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp
  • Cornstarch: 1 tsp
  • Garlic powder: 0.5 tsp
  • Smoked paprika: 0.5 tsp
  • Salt: 0.5 tsp
  • Black pepper: 0.25 tsp
  • Fresh parsley (optional): 1 tbsp, chopped
  • Flaky sea salt (optional): to taste

Instructions

Slice Potatoes:
Slice the potatoes into 0.25-inch (0.5 cm) thick rounds or wedges.
Microwave First:
Place potato pieces in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 tbsp water. Cover loosely and microwave on high for 5 minutes until just tender.
Drain and Coat:
Drain excess water. Add olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the potatoes. Toss to coat evenly.
Arrange:
Arrange coated potato pieces in a single layer on a large microwave-safe plate lined with parchment paper.
Microwave Crispy:
Microwave uncovered on high for 4 minutes, flip each piece, then microwave for another 2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Serve:
Transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately.
Save
| cravebop.com

Sharing these crispy potatoes with family always brings smiles, especially when everyone smells them coming out of the microwave and gathers for a bite.

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

A close-up view of wonderfully textured 15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes, perfect for lunch or dinner. Save
A close-up view of wonderfully textured 15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes, perfect for lunch or dinner. | cravebop.com

These potatoes are the perfect speedy side or snack. Enjoy them hot and crispy straight out of the microwave!

Recipe Guide

What type of potatoes work best for this method?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which crisps well while keeping the inside tender. Yukon Gold potatoes also make a good alternative.

How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?

After microwaving, finishing the potatoes under a broiler for 1–2 minutes enhances crispiness with a golden color and texture.

Is cornstarch essential for crispiness?

Cornstarch helps create a light, crispy coating by absorbing moisture and promoting browning during microwaving.

Can I add more seasoning to these potatoes?

Yes, adding spices like cayenne pepper or grated parmesan before cooking can boost flavor and complement the crispy texture.

What’s the best way to microwave the potatoes evenly?

Arrange the coated potato pieces in a single layer on parchment paper and flip them halfway through microwaving to ensure even crisping.

15-Minute Microwave Crispy Potatoes

Golden and crispy potatoes cooked fast using a microwave for tender, flavorful results perfect for quick sides or snacks.

Prep duration
5 min
Cook duration
10 min
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Lindsey Carter

Style Savory Bites

Skill level Easy

Heritage Global

Output 2 Portions

Nutrition labels Plant-based, No dairy, No gluten

What you'll need

Potatoes

01 2 medium russet potatoes (approximately 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

Method

Phase 01

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

Phase 02

Par-cook Potatoes: Place the potato slices in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of water, cover loosely with a plate or microwave-safe lid, and microwave on high for 5 minutes until tender but not fully cooked.

Phase 03

Season Potatoes: Drain any residual water. Add olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the potatoes and toss thoroughly to coat.

Phase 04

Arrange for Crispening: Spread the coated potato pieces in a single layer on a large microwave-safe plate lined with parchment paper.

Phase 05

Microwave to Crisp: Microwave uncovered on high for 4 to 5 minutes. Flip each piece, then microwave for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crispy. Monitor closely to prevent burning as microwave power varies.

Phase 06

Finish and Serve: Transfer potatoes to a serving plate. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley and flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.

Tools needed

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

Allergy alerts

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical advice if uncertain.
  • Contains no common allergens; verify cornstarch and spice blend labels for potential allergens.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 180
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 3 g