First Watch Million Dollar Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
Directions / Instructions
Why You'll Love These First Watch Million Dollar Potatoes
If you've ever enjoyed breakfast at First Watch, you've probably tasted their famous Million Dollar Potatoes. They're perfectly roasted until crispy and golden on the outside while remaining fluffy and creamy inside. Coated with butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and just the right amount of seasoning, these potatoes are simple yet incredibly flavorful.
The secret to achieving restaurant-quality potatoes is parboiling them before roasting. This creates a rough exterior that crisps beautifully in the oven while the inside stays light and tender. Finished with Parmesan cheese and served alongside a creamy lemon garlic aioli, these potatoes are perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Lemon Garlic Aioli
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and cut the Yukon Gold potatoes into evenly sized cubes. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until just fork-tender but not fully cooked.
2. Drain and Dry
Drain the potatoes well and allow them to steam dry for about 5 minutes. This removes excess moisture and helps create a crisp exterior.
3. Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss the potatoes gently until evenly coated.
4. Roast
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, flip them, then continue roasting for another 15 to 20 minutes until deeply golden and crispy.
5. Add Parmesan
During the final 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes and return them to the oven until the cheese melts and becomes lightly golden.
6. Prepare the Aioli
Whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
7. Garnish
Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
8. Serve
Serve immediately with the lemon garlic aioli on the side. Pair with eggs, bacon, breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast, omelets, pancakes, or grilled meats.
Expert Tips
Yukon Gold potatoes provide the ideal creamy interior while crisping beautifully in the oven. Don't skip the parboiling step, as it creates the signature crispy texture. Roast the potatoes without overcrowding the baking sheet so they brown instead of steam. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides superior flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 400°F oven or air fryer for 5 to 8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the exterior.
Serving Suggestions
These potatoes are perfect alongside scrambled eggs, fried eggs, omelets, breakfast burritos, avocado toast, pancakes, waffles, sausage, bacon, grilled steak, roasted chicken, burgers, or sandwiches. They also make an excellent side for brunch buffets and holiday breakfasts.
Recipe Variations
Add crispy bacon, caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning for a spicy version or use rosemary and thyme for a more herb-forward profile. Finish with hot honey, chipotle aioli, or garlic herb butter for a gourmet twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
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