Name: Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 3 cups potatoes, cubed; 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp paprika; Pinch of cayenne pepper; Salt to taste; ½ cup tomato sauce; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp vinegar (preferably sherry or white wine vinegar); ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 clove garlic, crushed

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If you’ve ever found yourself craving a vibrant, comforting snack that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible textures, you’re in for a treat with this Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe. These golden, crispy potato cubes are elevated by a smoky, spicy tomato sauce and topped with a creamy, garlicky aioli that adds the perfect cooling contrast. This classic Spanish tapas dish is a joyful celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something undeniably crave-worthy, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as an everyday indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with roasted golden-brown potato pieces arranged in layers, topped with drizzles of creamy white sauce and bright orange sauce that adds a smooth texture. Fresh green parsley leaves are scattered on top, adding a touch of color. A woman's hand is seen reaching in to drizzle or sprinkle over the dish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right here is key to achieving that perfect balance of crispiness, spice, and creaminess. Each component plays an essential role in bringing the unforgettable harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish a standout.

Potatoes (3 cups, cubed): Choose waxy potatoes for the best texture—these hold their shape well and roast beautifully.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): This elevates the potatoes’ crispiness and adds a rich, fruity undertone.
Paprika (½ tsp) + pinch of cayenne: These spices infuse the potatoes with a smoky warmth and just the right kick.
Salt to taste: Enhances every element, ensuring your potatoes are perfectly seasoned.
Bravas Sauce ingredients (½ cup tomato sauce, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp vinegar): The smoky, tangy tomato base that wakes up your palate.
Garlic Aioli ingredients (¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 clove crushed garlic): Creamy, garlicky goodness that cools the heat and adds luscious creaminess.

How to Make Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Potatoes

Start by tossing the cubed potatoes with olive oil, paprika, cayenne, and salt until each piece is generously coated. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly. Roast in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once or twice, until they are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside. This high-heat roasting is the secret to that coveted crunch that holds up beautifully under the sauces.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Bravas Sauce

While the potatoes roast, whisk together the tomato sauce, smoked paprika, and vinegar in a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to deepen the flavors and thicken slightly. This sauce is your flavor powerhouse, balancing tanginess with smoky heat—don’t be shy with the smoked paprika for that authentic taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlicky Aioli

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise with crushed garlic and stir until smooth. This simple aioli is a cool, creamy counterpart that cuts through the spice with every luscious bite. If you want an extra garlic punch, feel free to add a little more garlic, but a subtle hint is usually just perfect.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Once the potatoes are out of the oven and golden with crisp edges, transfer them to a serving plate. Generously spoon the spicy bravas sauce over the potatoes, then drizzle or dollop the garlicky aioli on top. The contrast between the crunchy potatoes and the two sauces is what makes this Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe so unforgettable.

How to Serve Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe

Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the top to add a burst of color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the dish. A light sprinkle of smoked paprika or even a dash of flaky sea salt right before serving adds an elegant finishing touch that makes the flavors pop.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a standalone snack but pairs wonderfully with classic Spanish tapas like olives, manchego cheese, or a simple green salad dressed with lemon. It also complements grilled seafood or chorizo for a fuller tapas spread that will impress your guests.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your patatas bravas in individual small bowls or on a rustic wooden board with small dipping bowls for the sauces. Layering the sauces on the side invites everyone to customize their bites, turning meal time into a delightful interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover potatoes can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the bravas sauce and aioli stored separately to maintain their fresh flavors and textures.

Freezing

While the crispy roasted potatoes don’t freeze well due to texture changes, you can freeze the bravas sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it gently in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To bring back the crispiness in leftover potatoes, reheat them in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave. A quick 5 to 7 minutes at 400°F will refresh their texture beautifully, making your Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe taste almost as good as freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Definitely! While waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape best, russets work fine if you don’t mind a fluffier interior. Just adjust roasting times slightly for crispness.

How spicy is this Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe?

You control the heat! The cayenne and smoked paprika give a warm spice, but feel free to adjust the cayenne amount to suit your taste from mild to fiery.

Can I make the sauce and aioli vegan?

Absolutely. Use vegan mayonnaise for the aioli and make sure your tomato sauce is free of animal products. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.

Is air fryer roasting better than oven roasting?

Air frying can deliver even crispier potatoes in less time, making it a fantastic alternative if you want extra crunch without heating your whole kitchen.

What’s the difference between bravas sauce and regular tomato sauce?

Bravas sauce is specifically seasoned with smoked paprika and vinegar to lend a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy punch that distinguishes it from plain tomato sauce and makes this recipe truly special.

Final Thoughts

This Patatas Bravas: Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Garlicky Aioli Recipe is a celebration of bold flavors wrapped in crispy, comforting goodness. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer for friends or craving a tasty snack to brighten your day, it embodies everything fantastic about Spanish tapas in a simple, accessible way. Give it a try—once you do, it might just become your new favorite go-to comfort dish!