Roasted Heart Shaped Potatoes

The first time I made these heart-shaped potatoes, it was actually a mistake—I was trying to make uniform rounds for a dinner party and grabbed the wrong cutter from my chaotic utensil drawer. Everyone loved them so much that the 'error' became a Valentine's Day tradition I now look forward to every year.

Last February, I made a triple batch for my daughters preschool class party. The teacher sent me a photo afterward of tiny hands reaching for seconds, and one little boy told her 'potatoes taste better when theyre shaped like hearts'—which honestly might be true.

Ingredients

• Yukon Gold or red potatoes: These varieties hold their shape beautifully during roasting and develop the most gorgeous golden crust—starchy potatoes like Russets will fall apart on you
• Olive oil: Three tablespoons might feel generous, but this is what creates that restaurant-quality exterior crispiness we're after
• Kosher salt: The coarse flakes adhere better than table salt and provide that satisfying crunch in every bite
• Fresh rosemary: Finely chopping releases the aromatic oils that will perfume these potatoes as they roast
• Flaky sea salt: This finishing touch makes each heart sparkle and adds professional-level texture

Instructions

Preheat and prepare your baking surface:

Set your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup remarkably easier

Cut the potato hearts:

Slice your peeled potatoes into 1 cm thick rounds, then press a small heart-shaped cookie cutter into each slice, saving the scraps for hash browns or soup

Coat with seasonings:

In a large bowl, toss the potato hearts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary until every piece is glistening and fragrant

Arrange for roasting:

Spread the potatoes in a single layer on your prepared sheet, giving each heart enough space to crisp properly without steaming

Roast to golden perfection:

Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are deeply golden and irresistibly crunchy

Finish with flair:

Sprinkle immediately with flaky sea salt and any extra herbs while they're hot enough to make the salt sparkle

Save

My partner proposed over dinner the first time I served these alongside a simple roasted chicken. I like to think the potatoes helped—they definitely made saying yes feel like the natural choice.

Making Ahead For Parties

You can cut the hearts up to 24 hours in advance and store them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator. Pat them thoroughly dry before tossing with oil and seasonings, or they'll steam instead of roast.

Herb Variations That Work

Thyme creates a more subtle, earthy flavor profile that pairs beautifully with lamb. Oregano brings a bright, almost citrusy note that cuts through rich main dishes like beef short ribs.

Serving Suggestions

These hearts shine alongside simply grilled proteins where they can steal the show. They're also unexpectedly addictive as party snacks with a simple dipping sauce.

• Pair with herb-roasted chicken for an effortless elegant dinner
• Stack them on a platter with toothpicks for instant party appeal
• Leftovers reheat surprisingly well in a hot skillet

Save

Theres something magical about transforming humble potatoes into something that makes people feel celebrated. These hearts have become my go-to way to say I care without saying a word.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I achieve crispy potatoes?

Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry before seasoning and roasting at high heat.

→ Can I substitute rosemary with other herbs?

Yes, thyme or oregano work well to add different aromatic flavors to the potatoes.

→ What type of potatoes are best for roasting?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape and become crispy while staying fluffy inside.

→ How should I slice the potatoes for best results?

Slice potatoes into 1 cm thick rounds and use a heart-shaped cutter to create uniform, decorative pieces that roast evenly.

→ What temperature is recommended for roasting?

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) to ensure the potatoes roast quickly and develop a golden, crisp exterior.