These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are the perfect blend of textures and flavors—crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness. The crispy Parmesan crust forms on the bottom, giving the potatoes a crunchy bite, while the inside stays soft and fluffy. With just a few simple ingredients, this side dish is a game-changer. Whether you’re serving it with a roast chicken, steak, or a fresh salad, these potatoes will elevate any meal.
Servings and Timing
- Ready in: 40 minutes
- Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes): Yukon Gold potatoes work especially well here because they have a creamy, buttery texture when cooked, making them the perfect base for this recipe. Red potatoes also work great if you want something slightly firmer.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the potatoes and adds a rich, smooth flavor to the crispy crust.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan gives these potatoes a sharp, savory taste and a crunchy texture when it crisps up in the oven.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder brings an aromatic depth of flavor to the potatoes. It complements the Parmesan perfectly.
- ½ tsp paprika: Paprika adds color to the potatoes and a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ tsp salt: Salt is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the potatoes and the cheese. Adjust to your taste.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of heat and balances the richness of the Parmesan.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note that brightens up the dish.
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Begin by thoroughly washing your potatoes, then slice them in half lengthwise. If you want more bite-sized pieces, you can also cut them into quarters. Make sure the potato pieces are about the same size to ensure they cook evenly.
- Make the Parmesan Mix: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give the potatoes their savory, cheesy crust. You can always adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. If you like a little extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Coat & Arrange: Drizzle olive oil over a baking sheet, making sure it’s spread evenly. Sprinkle the Parmesan seasoning mixture over the oil, then lay the potato halves (cut side down) directly on top of the oil and seasoning mix. Press down slightly on each potato to ensure they stick to the oil and seasonings, which will help form that delicious crispy crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The potatoes should turn golden brown and crispy on the bottom, while the tops remain tender. The key to perfect crispy potatoes is baking them cut-side down so the starch can caramelize and crisp up. If you want the potatoes even crispier, you can increase the baking time by a few more minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Garnish & Serve: Once the potatoes are baked and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then carefully lift them off the pan using a spatula. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and color. These potatoes are best served immediately while they’re still warm and crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Tender: The magic of this dish is in the texture. The potatoes are crispy on the bottom, thanks to the Parmesan crust, while the inside remains soft and fluffy.
- Savory and Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika gives these potatoes a savory, cheesy punch. The seasoning mix works beautifully to enhance the natural flavors of the potatoes.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The recipe is easy to make, and the results are impressive.
- Versatile: These potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. Serve them with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a hearty side to pasta. They even make a great appetizer if you slice them into smaller pieces.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the potatoes ahead of time. Simply slice them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just toss them with olive oil and the Parmesan seasoning mix right before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- With Meat: Serve these potatoes alongside your favorite roasted meats, like chicken, beef, or pork. They pair particularly well with dishes that have a rich gravy or sauce.
- For Dipping: These potatoes are also great for dipping. Serve them with a side of garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce.
- As a Main: If you’re looking for a vegetarian meal, serve these potatoes with a simple green salad and some grilled vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
- For Brunch: These potatoes make an excellent side for a brunch spread. Pair them with scrambled eggs or an omelet for a delicious start to your day.
Additional Tips
- Crispy Bottom: If you want the bottom of the potatoes to be extra crispy, consider adding a little more Parmesan to the seasoning mix. You can even broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to get an extra crispy finish.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning. For example, adding Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish further.
- Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is the star of this recipe, you could also try using Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, or a mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are the perfect combination of simple and delicious, making them a go-to side dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a special occasion, they are sure to be a hit!