The next time you're in search of a low-lift but impressive side dish for a special get together, date night, or holiday celebration, stop scrolling and add these decadent Fondant Potatoes to your menu. They take minimal hands-on prep—about 20 minutes—and even fewer kitchen skills (if you can peel and cut up a potato you can make these gorgeous spuds). And if you can't wait for a special occasion, we don't blame you. Surprise the fam with a side dish of Fondant Potatoes on any random weeknight too. They'll love you!

What are Fondant Potatoes?

Fondant potatoes, or pommes de terre fondantes, is a French side dish that uses a method of slicing potatoes into thick cross sections, browning both ends, and then slowly braising the potatoes in butter, garlic, herbs, and broth. The French word fondante means melting, which aptly describes the smooth creamy insides of these flavorful potatoes.

What Types of Potatoes Work Best for Fondant Potatoes?

Though potatoes will keep up to one year if you store them properly, it's best to use the freshest potatoes for this recipe. When it comes to choosing the right variety for this potato side dish, ideally a high-starch variety like Russet potatoes, or an all-purpose potato such as Yukon Gold, yield the best texture after braising in the oven. Save the waxy varieties, ie red potatoes, for potato salads and gratins. They won't end up as light and creamy inside as the higher starch potatoes.