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These crispy Parmesan potatoes deliver a golden crunch with a savory cheesy crust that elevates any meal. The baby potatoes roast to perfection offering a tender inside that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior. It’s a simple recipe that transforms humble ingredients into a side dish worth savoring.
I made this for a family dinner once, and everyone kept reaching for seconds. It quickly became my go-to side dish for its effortless charm and crowd-pleasing taste.
Ingredients You Need
- Two pounds of baby potatoes: offer the best size for roasting and crisping evenly choose firm and blemish-free potatoes for the best result
- One cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese: forms the tasty crust that browns beautifully in the oven
- Four tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil: help the potatoes crisp up while adding a subtle richness
- Two teaspoons of garlic powder: enhance the flavor with warm, aromatic notes
- One teaspoon of salt: season the potatoes perfectly balance and bring out natural flavors
- One teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper: adds a hint of spice and depth
- Two tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley: provide a bright, refreshing finish just before serving
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Build The Foundation:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius so it’s ready to crisp the potatoes perfectly.
- Prepare The Potatoes:
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes to ensure they cook evenly and create more crispy edges.
- Combine The Seasoning:
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well mixed for an evenly flavored coating.
- Coat The Potatoes:
- Add the halved potatoes to the bowl and toss thoroughly so each piece absorbs the seasoning and oil.
- Arrange On Baking Sheet:
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking tray this helps them roast evenly and crisp up on all sides.
- Add The Parmesan:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the potatoes which will create a golden crust as it bakes.
- Roast To Crispy Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside.
- Final Touch:
- Once baked, scatter chopped fresh parsley over the potatoes. The fresh herb adds a lovely color and a burst of freshness to balance the richness.
I particularly love the way the Parmesan melts and crisps creating a savory shell it always feels like a special treat. One time I added fresh rosemary and it gave a wonderful fragrant twist that I still use regularly.
Smart Storage Tips
Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep them fresh. To bring back their crispiness warm them in a hot skillet or oven rather than the microwave.
Ingredient Variations
Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper and saltier bite or use Asiago cheese for a nuttier flavor. Adding rosemary thyme or smoked paprika can introduce new layers of aroma and taste.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
These potatoes play beautifully with roasted chicken a juicy steak or grilled salmon. Pair with a light green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Mastering these crispy Parmesan potatoes means you will always have a dependable side that elevates any dish with its golden crunch and comforting flavors. Let them rest a minute after baking before serving so the cheese sets slightly making each bite perfectly satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of potatoes work best for this dish?
Baby potatoes are ideal because they roast evenly and develop a crisp exterior while staying tender inside.
- → Can I use fresh parmesan instead of pre-grated?
Yes, freshly grated parmesan provides a richer flavor and melts nicely, creating a crispy crust.
- → How do I ensure the potatoes get crispy?
Toss the potatoes in olive oil and spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet for even roasting and crispiness.
- → Is it necessary to preheat the oven to 400°F?
Preheating to 400°F helps to cook the potatoes quickly, encouraging a golden and crispy texture.
- → Can I add extra flavors to this dish?
Absolutely, adding spices like red pepper flakes or fresh herbs can enhance the flavor without overpowering the parmesan crust.