4-Ingredient Creamy Baked Red Potato Halves

4-Ingredient Creamy Baked Red Potato Halves

These creamy baked red potato halves are the definition of simple comfort food. With just four everyday ingredients, they bake up tender and buttery with a rich garlic cream sauce that coats every bite. It’s the kind of easy side dish that feels homemade and comforting without requiring much effort.

The potatoes become soft and fluffy inside while the tops turn lightly golden in the oven. As they bake, the cream, butter, and seasonings create a savory sauce that’s perfect for spooning over both the potatoes and whatever main dish you’re serving alongside them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only 4 simple ingredients.
• Minimal prep work.
• Creamy, comforting flavor.
• Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Pairs well with almost any main course.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 50–55 minutes

Rest Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pounds small red potatoes, scrubbed and halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the halved red potatoes into a 9×13-inch glass baking dish, arranging them in an even layer.
3. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the heavy cream, melted butter, and garlic salt until combined.
4. Pour the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes.
5. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Carefully remove the foil and spoon some of the hot cream mixture over the tops of the potatoes.
8. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and lightly golden around the edges.
9. For extra browning, bake an additional 5 minutes if desired.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the potatoes to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
11. Spoon the creamy sauce from the bottom of the dish over the potatoes when serving.

Serving Suggestions

These creamy potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, meatloaf, baked ham, or steak. Add a fresh green salad, steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or glazed carrots to complete the meal.

For special occasions, garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or sliced green onions just before serving.

Variations

• Cheesy Version: Sprinkle 1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Smoky Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika to the cream mixture.
• Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons.
• Seasoned Potatoes: Replace the garlic salt with your favorite seasoned salt blend.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

Helpful Tips

• Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.
• Keep some potato tops exposed above the cream for the best golden color.
• Covering the dish initially helps steam the potatoes until tender.
• Basting halfway through baking adds extra flavor and color.
• Allow the dish to rest before serving so the sauce can thicken slightly.

Food Safety Notes

• Scrub potatoes thoroughly before preparing.
• Remove any green spots or sprouts before baking.
• Keep dairy products refrigerated until ready to use.
• Do not leave the finished dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume within 3 to 4 days.