Everyone loves a good potato dish, don’t they? I mean, they’re versatile, comforting, and can easily take center stage on the dinner table. One of my all-time favorites is Boiled Potatoes with Parsley. This humble dish brings simplicity and flavor together in the most delightful way. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a side that elevates any meal. The creamy texture of the baby potatoes combined with the freshness of parsley makes for a perfect pairing with your favorite dishes.
This recipe is not just about boiling potatoes; it’s about infusing them with flavor and making them shine through the use of quality ingredients. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a hearty salad, these Boiled Potatoes with Parsley are bound to impress.
Why It’s My Go-To

There are countless potato recipes out there, but boiled potatoes with parsley stand out for their simplicity and ability to complement a variety of meals. This dish requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor, making it a staple in my kitchen. I love how the melted butter and fresh parsley bring the dish to life, turning ordinary potatoes into something extraordinary. Plus, they’re ready in just about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties.
What We’re Using
To make these delightful Boiled Potatoes with Parsley, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Water – for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt – for boiling
- 1 lb (500g) baby potatoes – a mix of red and yellow
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – for seasoning
- 3 dashes ground black pepper – to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley – for garnish
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the potatoes. The salt in the boiling water helps to season the potatoes from the inside out, while the butter adds richness and the parsley brings a fresh brightness to the dish.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Large pot – for boiling the potatoes
- Colander – for draining the potatoes
- Measuring spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements
- Butter knife – for spreading the melted butter
- Chopping board – for chopping the parsley
Having everything prepped and organized will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
How to Prepare Boiled Potatoes with Parsley

Making Boiled Potatoes with Parsley is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. There’s no need to peel them; the skin adds texture and flavor.
Step 2: Boil the Water
Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the potatoes, and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the baby potatoes. Lower the heat to medium and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Drain and Season
Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. While they are still hot, drizzle the melted butter over the potatoes, add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and sprinkle with black pepper.
Step 5: Add Fresh Parsley
Finally, toss in the chopped Italian parsley and gently stir to combine, making sure each potato is coated in the delicious buttery parsley mixture.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with a bit more fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Boiled Potatoes with Parsley warm, either as a side dish or a main attraction on your plate!
Year-Round Variations

The beauty of Boiled Potatoes with Parsley is its versatility. Here are some fun variations you can try throughout the year:
- For an extra kick, add minced garlic to the melted butter.
- In the fall, toss in some roasted pumpkin or sage for a seasonal twist.
- In summer, mix in cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a vibrant salad.
- For a heartier option, serve alongside Meatball Casserole With Mashed Potatoes for a comforting family meal.
Experimenting with these variations can bring new life to this classic dish, keeping it exciting and fresh!
Watch Outs & How to Fix
While making Boiled Potatoes with Parsley is generally foolproof, here are a few common pitfalls and how to fix them:
- Overcooked Potatoes: If your potatoes become mushy, you can try to salvage them by mashing them into a creamy dish or adding them to a soup.
- Under-seasoned: If you find the potatoes lacking flavor, don’t hesitate to sprinkle on more salt or add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Butter Solidifying: If the melted butter starts to solidify before serving, simply reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove before drizzling over the potatoes.
These tips will help ensure your potatoes turn out perfectly every time!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare Boiled Potatoes with Parsley ahead of time, making them a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to store them:
- Cooked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or toss them in a skillet with a little butter until heated through.
- If you want to prepare them further in advance, you can boil the potatoes and store them without seasoning for up to a week. Just add the butter and herbs before serving.
This makes them a convenient side dish to whip out for busy nights!
Quick Q&A
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby red and yellow potatoes work beautifully, you can use any waxy or all-purpose potatoes such as Yukon Gold or fingerlings for a different texture and flavor.
What can I serve with Boiled Potatoes with Parsley?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a side for dishes like Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes. They also make a great addition to salads!
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative or olive oil, and you’ll have a delicious vegan side dish.
How do I know when the potatoes are done cooking?
Potatoes are done when they are tender and a fork or knife can easily pierce through them. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become mushy.
Desserts to Finish
Once you’ve enjoyed the savory goodness of Boiled Potatoes with Parsley, it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here are some delightful dessert ideas to consider:
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – a classic treat that never goes out of style.
- Lemon Bars – for a zesty finish to your meal.
- Vanilla Cupcakes – light and fluffy, perfect for any occasion.
Next Steps
Now that you’ve mastered the art of Boiled Potatoes with Parsley, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful flavors that come from this simple yet satisfying dish. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you, so feel free to make this recipe your own! Happy cooking!

Boiled Potatoes with Parsley
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby potatoes (a mix of red and yellow)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for seasoning)
- 3 dashes ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley (for garnish)
- Water (for boiling)
Instructions
Instructions
- Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. There's no need to peel them; the skin adds texture and flavor.
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the potatoes, and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the baby potatoes. Lower the heat to medium and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. While they are still hot, drizzle the melted butter over the potatoes, add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and sprinkle with black pepper.
- Finally, toss in the chopped Italian parsley and gently stir to combine, making sure each potato is coated in the delicious buttery parsley mixture.
- Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with a bit more fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Boiled Potatoes with Parsley warm!
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Measuring Spoons
- Butter knife
- Chopping Board
Notes
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the melted butter.
- Store cooked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegan option, replace butter with a vegan butter alternative or olive oil.
