Idaho is renowned for its potatoes, and for good reason. These versatile tubers are a staple in many kitchens, offering endless culinary possibilities. Whether you're looking for classic comfort food or innovative new dishes, Idaho potatoes are the perfect ingredient. Here are 15 delicious recipes and tips to help you make the most of Idaho's finest.

15 Delicious Potato Recipes

1. Classic Mashed Potatoes

• Ingredients:
  • 2 pounds Idaho potatoes
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

1. Peel and cut potatoes into chunks.
2. Boil in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain and mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Tip: Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gluey texture.

2. Crispy Roasted Potatoes

• Ingredients:
  • 2 pounds Idaho potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Cut potatoes into wedges.
3. Toss with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.

Tip: Soak potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before roasting for extra crispiness.

3. Loaded Baked Potatoes

• Ingredients:
  • 4 large Idaho potatoes
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 4 tablespoons butter

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Bake potatoes for 45-60 minutes until tender.
3. Slice open and fluff insides with a fork.
4. Top with butter, sour cream, bacon, cheese, and green onions.

Tip: Rub potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before baking for crispy skins.

4. Potato Salad

• Ingredients:
  • 2 pounds Idaho potatoes
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons mustard
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1/4 cup pickles, chopped
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

1. Boil potatoes until tender, then cool and chop.
2. Mix mayonnaise, mustard, celery, pickles, and eggs.
3. Fold in potatoes and season with salt and pepper.

Tip: Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for better flavor.

5. Potato Leek Soup

• Ingredients:
  • 2 pounds Idaho potatoes
  • 3 leeks, cleaned and sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

1. Sauté leeks in butter until soft.
2. Add diced potatoes and chicken broth.
3. Simmer until potatoes are tender, then blend until smooth.
4. Stir in cream, salt, and pepper.

Tip: Garnish with chopped chives or crispy bacon bits for added flavor.

6. Hash Browns

• Ingredients:
  • 2 pounds Idaho potatoes
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

1. Grate potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture.
2. Heat butter in a skillet.
3. Cook potatoes in a single layer until crispy and golden on both sides.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

Tip: Use a cast iron skillet for the best crispiness.

7. Scalloped Potatoes

• Ingredients:
  • 2 pounds Idaho potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Layer thinly sliced potatoes in a baking dish.
3. Make a roux with butter and flour, then whisk in milk and cheese.
4. Pour over potatoes and bake for 1 hour.

Tip: Add a layer of onions for extra flavor.

Idaho potatoes are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. From classic comfort foods to innovative culinary creations, these recipes highlight the endless possibilities of cooking with Idaho potatoes. Try these recipes and enjoy the rich flavors and textures that Idaho potatoes bring to your table.

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