Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes Recipe
Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes are a unique and delicious dish that combines the savory goodness of roasted potatoes with a rich, sweet glaze made of honey, butter, and a hint of seasoning. The result is a mouthwatering contrast between the crispy edges of the potatoes and the velvety, sweet buttery coating. Perfect as a side dish, this recipe is versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or even special gatherings.
Ingredients Overview
The key ingredients in this dish are straightforward yet flavorful. The balance between the rich honey, creamy butter, and the natural earthiness of potatoes creates a perfect harmony of flavors.
Basic Ingredients
- Potatoes: The primary ingredient. Potatoes come in a variety of types, and the right choice will affect the texture and flavor of the final dish.
- Honey: A sweetener that balances the savory elements of the potatoes. It gives the glaze a smooth, sweet finish.
- Butter: Provides richness and creates the silky texture of the glaze. You can use either unsalted or salted butter, depending on your preference.
- Salt: A touch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the honey.
- Black Pepper: Adds a slight kick to the overall taste.
Optional Ingredients
- Garlic: A minced clove or two will add depth and complexity to the glaze.
- Chili Flakes: For a spicy version, add chili flakes to the glaze or sprinkle them on top of the roasted potatoes.
- Fresh Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and parsley can be added to infuse aromatic freshness into the dish.
- Lemon Juice: A small squeeze of lemon can bring a slight acidity to balance the richness of the honey butter glaze.
Types of Potatoes to Use
The choice of potatoes plays a crucial role in the overall texture and flavor of your dish. While almost any type of potato will work, different varieties have distinct characteristics that affect the final outcome.
1. Yukon Gold Potatoes
These are one of the best varieties to use for glazed honey butter potatoes. Yukon Golds have a creamy, buttery texture that complements the honey butter glaze perfectly. They have a slightly waxy texture, which makes them ideal for roasting, as they hold their shape well.
2. Russet Potatoes
Russets are starchy potatoes that become light and fluffy when cooked. While they are often associated with mashed potatoes, their crispy texture when roasted makes them a good candidate for this dish. However, they might not hold their shape as well as Yukon Golds.
3. Red Potatoes
Red potatoes have a waxy texture, which makes them ideal for roasting because they retain their shape well. They have a subtle, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the honey butter glaze.
4. Baby Potatoes
These are simply small, tender potatoes that can come in a variety of types, including red, yellow, or white. Their small size makes them perfect for roasting whole and giving them that crispy, golden crust. They are also easy to serve as individual portions.
5. Fingerling Potatoes
Fingerling potatoes are small, elongated potatoes that have a rich, nutty flavor. They’re perfect for roasting and add an elegant touch to the dish.
Tip: If you want a variety of textures in the dish, you could mix and match different potato types. This would add visual interest as well as a range of flavors.
Essential Tools and Equipment
For making glazed honey butter potatoes, there are a few key tools and pieces of equipment that will make the process easier and ensure your dish comes out perfect every time.
1. Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
A sharp knife is essential for cutting the potatoes into even pieces. A stable cutting board will make the process much safer and more efficient.
2. Large Mixing Bowl
A mixing bowl is necessary for tossing the potatoes with oil, salt, and pepper before cooking. This ensures that the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Roasting Pan or Sheet Pan
A sturdy, non-stick roasting pan or baking sheet is ideal for roasting the potatoes in the oven. Make sure the pan has enough space for the potatoes to be spread out in a single layer for even cooking.
4. Small Saucepan
To make the honey butter glaze, you’ll need a small saucepan for gently heating the butter and honey. A whisk or spoon will help you combine the ingredients smoothly.
5. Oven (for Roasting) or Stovetop (for Pan Roasting)
Depending on the cooking method you choose, you’ll need an oven for roasting or a stovetop for pan-roasting the potatoes.
6. Tongs or Spatula
For flipping or stirring the potatoes during the cooking process, a pair of tongs or a spatula will help you handle the potatoes without breaking them.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and tools, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making glazed honey butter potatoes.
Preparing the Potatoes
- Wash and Peel the Potatoes (Optional) Depending on the variety of potatoes you’ve chosen, you may or may not want to peel them. For Yukon Golds and Red Potatoes, it’s perfectly fine to leave the skins on, as they add texture and flavor. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the potatoes before cooking.
- Cut the Potatoes For even cooking, it’s important to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces. Depending on the size of the potatoes, you can cut them into quarters, halves, or bite-sized chunks. Aim for pieces that are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Making the Honey Butter Glaze
- Melt the Butter In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Be careful not to let it burn. Stir the butter occasionally to ensure it melts evenly.
- Add the Honey Once the butter is melted, add the honey and stir well to combine. Continue heating the mixture until it becomes smooth and fully combined. This should take about 2–3 minutes. If you’re adding garlic or chili flakes, this is the time to incorporate them into the glaze.
- Season the Glaze Taste the glaze and adjust the seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste, and consider adding a small amount of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
Cooking the Potatoes
Now, you have three main methods for cooking your potatoes: oven roasting, stovetop pan-roasting, or using an air fryer.
1. Oven Roasting Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the cut potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a roasting pan or baking sheet. Make sure there’s some space between the potatoes to allow them to crisp up.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Once the potatoes are roasted, remove them from the oven and drizzle the honey butter glaze over them while they’re still hot. Toss to coat.
2. Stovetop Pan-Roasting Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a couple of tablespoons of oil.
- Add the cut potatoes to the pan, making sure they’re spread out evenly.
- Cook the potatoes, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until they’re crispy and tender. You may need to lower the heat if they start browning too quickly.
- Once cooked, drizzle the honey butter glaze over the potatoes and toss to coat.
3. Air Fryer Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, drizzle with the honey butter glaze and toss to coat.
Glazing the Potatoes
After the potatoes have been cooked and are still hot, pour the honey butter glaze over them and toss gently to ensure all the pieces are coated. If you like extra glaze, feel free to make more of the honey butter mixture.
Variations and Customizations
While the basic glazed honey butter potatoes are delicious on their own, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Adding Herbs and Spices
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley over the glazed potatoes for added fragrance and flavor.
- Garlic: Add minced garlic to the honey butter glaze for an extra savory depth.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika for a smoky or spicy kick.
Using Different Sweeteners
If you want to adjust the sweetness, you can try using alternatives to honey:
- Maple Syrup: For a slightly different flavor, you can substitute maple syrup for honey.
- Agave Nectar: Another natural sweetener that works well in place of honey.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Versions
To make the recipe vegan, simply swap the butter for a plant-based butter substitute. Coconut oil or olive oil are both great alternatives that will complement the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup.
Spicy Honey Butter Potatoes
For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey butter glaze. The heat will provide a delightful contrast to the sweet and savory flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served with a wide variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Grilled Meats: Serve these potatoes alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops.
- For a Holiday Feast: These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, making them an excellent choice for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
- Vegetarian Meal: Serve them with a crisp green salad and roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the potatoes ahead of time by roasting them and storing them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat them and glaze them right before serving.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes? Sweet potatoes work wonderfully with honey butter glaze! They’ll provide a slightly different flavor profile but will still be just as delicious.
Q: Can I freeze the glazed honey butter potatoes? Freezing may affect the texture of the potatoes, so it’s not the best option. However, you can freeze the cooked, unglazed potatoes, then glaze them after reheating.
Conclusion
Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes are an irresistible dish that combines the richness of butter, the sweetness of honey, and the natural flavor of roasted potatoes. With endless opportunities for customization and creativity.
Advanced Tips for Perfecting Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes
If you’ve followed the basic recipe and are ready to take your glazed honey butter potatoes to the next level, there are several advanced tips and techniques you can use to refine the dish. These methods focus on optimizing texture, flavor, and presentation, ensuring that every bite is as mouthwatering as the last.
1. Double Roasting for Extra Crispiness
For those who prefer their potatoes extra crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside, a double roasting method can make a huge difference. This technique involves parboiling the potatoes before roasting them.
How to Double Roast Potatoes:
- Boil the Potatoes: Begin by cutting your potatoes into uniform pieces and placing them in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes, or until just starting to soften but not fully cooked. This process helps the potatoes develop a fluffy interior once roasted.
- Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes well and spread them out on a baking sheet. Let them sit for a few minutes to cool slightly and allow any excess moisture to evaporate. This step is crucial, as moisture can prevent potatoes from crisping up properly.
- Roast the Potatoes: Toss the parboiled potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them at 425°F (220°C) for about 35-40 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through to ensure an even golden-brown crust.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, drizzle with the honey butter glaze and toss gently. The result is a perfect balance of crunchy exterior and tender interior.
2. Infusing the Honey Butter Glaze with Additional Flavors
To elevate your glaze even further, you can infuse the honey butter with additional flavors that will complement the sweetness and enhance the overall dish.
Herb-Infused Honey Butter:
If you want a fragrant, herbaceous note in your glaze, consider infusing the honey butter with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. Here’s how to do it:
- Melt the butter in a saucepan as usual, but add 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan as the butter melts.
- Allow the herbs to steep in the butter over low heat for 3-5 minutes, then remove them before adding the honey. This process will infuse the butter with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
Garlic-Infused Honey Butter:
For a savory garlic kick, add minced garlic to the melted butter before combining it with the honey. Let the garlic cook in the butter for 1-2 minutes to soften and release its flavor. This creates a honey butter glaze that’s sweet, savory, and aromatic all at once.
Spicy Honey Butter:
If you’re a fan of heat, adding chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a small amount of chipotle powder to your glaze can give the potatoes a bold kick. The smoky flavor of chipotle, combined with honey’s sweetness, creates an addictive contrast.
3. Browning the Butter (Beurre Noisette)
To add a nutty richness to your honey butter glaze, consider browning the butter. This technique, known as beurre noisette in French cuisine, involves cooking the butter until it turns golden brown, releasing a deep, nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with honey.
How to Brown Butter:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Continue cooking the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty fragrance. Be careful not to let it burn, as it can go from brown to burnt quickly.
- Once the butter has browned, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before adding the honey.
Browning the butter will impart a rich, deep flavor to the glaze, making it even more decadent and flavorful. This technique pairs particularly well with roasted or mashed potatoes and can add a gourmet touch to your dish.
4. Drizzling Glaze at the Right Time
Timing is key when it comes to glazing your potatoes. The potatoes should be hot when the honey butter glaze is applied, but not so hot that the glaze will simply melt away into a puddle. For the best results, follow these timing tips:
- Freshly Roasted: As soon as the potatoes come out of the oven or off the stovetop, drizzle the glaze over them while they’re still hot. The heat will help the glaze coat the potatoes evenly and create that delicious, glossy finish.
- Tossing Gently: Use a spatula or tongs to toss the potatoes gently, ensuring that each piece is coated with a layer of the honey butter glaze. If the glaze has cooled too much and thickened, gently heat it again before drizzling.
5. Garnishing with Extra Toppings
While the potatoes themselves are the star of the dish, a garnish can elevate their visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor.
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs will balance the richness of the honey butter.
- Chopped Nuts: If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling chopped roasted nuts—such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds—on top of the glazed potatoes. The nuttiness complements the sweetness and adds an extra texture.
- Crumbled Cheese: A small amount of crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even grated Parmesan can add a tangy, salty contrast to the sweetness of the glaze. This works particularly well if you’re serving the potatoes with other savory dishes.
Pairing Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes with Drinks
When it comes to pairing drinks with glazed honey butter potatoes, the sweet, savory, and rich nature of the dish calls for beverages that complement its complexity. Here are a few drink ideas that will pair perfectly with this dish:
1. White Wine Pairings
- Chardonnay: A full-bodied Chardonnay, especially one that’s been aged in oak, complements the richness of the honey butter potatoes with its buttery texture and subtle notes of vanilla and spice.
- Riesling: A slightly sweet Riesling works wonderfully with the sweetness of the honey glaze. Its acidity helps balance the richness of the potatoes, making it a refreshing choice.
2. Red Wine Pairings
- Pinot Noir: If you prefer red wine, go for a light-bodied Pinot Noir. Its delicate flavors of red berries and earthy undertones pair well with the subtle sweetness of the honey butter potatoes.
- Zinfandel: For a bolder red wine option, Zinfandel’s rich fruitiness and spice can hold up to the sweet glaze while adding its own depth of flavor.
3. Beer Pairings
- Amber Ale: The maltiness of an amber ale complements the sweetness of the honey glaze, while the beer’s slight bitterness balances the richness of the butter.
- Wheat Beer: A light and refreshing wheat beer has a mild fruity flavor that pairs well with the creamy texture of the potatoes and the sweet, aromatic glaze.
4. Non-Alcoholic Pairings
- Iced Tea: A glass of unsweetened iced tea can be a refreshing choice to cut through the richness of the honey butter potatoes. A splash of lemon can add a citrusy zing that balances the sweetness.
- Sparkling Water: For a more neutral pairing, sparkling water with a twist of lime can provide a crisp and refreshing contrast to the potatoes.
Serving Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes at Special Occasions
The versatility of glazed honey butter potatoes makes them suitable for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a special event, these potatoes can be adapted to suit different themes and tastes.
1. Holiday Dinners
Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes are a perfect side dish for holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. Their sweet-savory flavor pairs well with traditional holiday meats like turkey, ham, or roast beef. Additionally, their golden color and glossy appearance make them an eye-catching centerpiece on any holiday table.
To make them even more festive, consider using baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes for an elegant presentation. You can also add sprigs of rosemary or thyme to the serving platter to create a beautiful, aromatic display.
2. Barbecues and Outdoor Gatherings
For a summer barbecue or outdoor party, glazed honey butter potatoes offer a delicious and unique twist on traditional potato salad. Their crispy edges and sweet glaze contrast beautifully with grilled meats such as burgers, hot dogs, and ribs. You can serve the potatoes warm or at room temperature, making them a great option for potlucks and picnics.
If you’re grilling, you can also try grilling the potatoes before glazing them. Simply parboil or microwave the potatoes first, then toss them with oil and seasoning before grilling them on skewers or in a grill basket. Once grilled, glaze them with the honey butter mixture and serve.
3. Dinner Parties and Elegant Meals
If you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a more formal meal, glazed honey butter potatoes can be served as a side to complement sophisticated main courses such as roast lamb, duck, or salmon. Pair the potatoes with a crisp salad and a selection of fine wines for an elegant dining experience.
To create an upscale presentation, serve the potatoes in individual ramekins or small dishes, drizzled with the glaze and garnished with fresh herbs or crumbled cheese.
A Dish That Delights
Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re an experience. The balance of crispy, caramelized edges with the soft, buttery interior, all enveloped in a sweet glaze, makes them a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or a formal celebration, these potatoes are sure to impress. With countless variations and customization options, you can adapt the recipe to suit any taste or occasion.
Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes Recipe

Glazed Honey Butter Potatoes are a unique and delicious dish that combines the savory goodness of roasted potatoes with a rich, sweet glaze made of honey, butter, and a hint of seasoning. The result is a mouthwatering contrast between the crispy edges of the potatoes and the velvety, sweet buttery coating. Perfect as a side dish, this recipe is versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or even special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (or fingerling potatoes), halved or quartered if large
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispness)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. If using larger potatoes, cut them into bite-sized pieces (halves or quarters).
Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.
Drain the potatoes and set aside. - Cook the Honey Butter Glaze:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional) over medium heat. Once hot, add the butter and allow it to melt.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the honey, fresh thyme or rosemary (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. - Glaze the Potatoes:
Add the drained potatoes to the skillet and toss them gently in the honey butter glaze, ensuring the potatoes are evenly coated.
Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and slightly caramelized in the glaze. Be sure to coat all sides of the potatoes with the honey butter mixture. - Finish & Serve:
Once the potatoes are crispy on the outside and glazed perfectly, remove from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.