Looking for a delicious side dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor? Crispy Parmesan Potatoes are a perfect solution! With a golden, crispy exterior and tender, fluffy inside, these potatoes are seasoned with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, making them a hit for any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this simple recipe will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds small potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well, halved or quartered depending on size)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Depending on their size, halve or quarter the potatoes so they are bite-sized. Make sure all pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato pieces with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
Step 4: Arrange the Potatoes on a Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the cut sides of the potatoes are facing down on the pan to achieve maximum crispiness.
Step 5: Bake the Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the potatoes to ensure even browning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are crispy and cooked through, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve immediately as a side dish with your favorite main course.
Cooking Notes:
- Crispier Potatoes: To get extra crispy potatoes, spread them out so they aren’t crowded on the baking sheet. The air needs to circulate around each piece for the best results.
- Parmesan Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor and texture, but pre-grated cheese can be used if that’s what you have on hand.
- Variation in Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil, oregano, or even a touch of paprika for a smoky flavor.
Variations:
1. Spicy Parmesan Potatoes
If you like a bit of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix before baking. This will give the potatoes a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the Parmesan.
2. Lemon Herb Potatoes
For a fresh, zesty twist, squeeze some lemon juice over the baked potatoes before serving, and sprinkle them with fresh dill or chives.
3. Cheesy Parmesan Potatoes
For an even cheesier version, add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking. The cheese will melt over the crispy potatoes, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
4. Garlic Butter Potatoes
For richer, more decadent potatoes, toss them in melted garlic butter instead of olive oil before adding the Parmesan and herbs. This will give the potatoes a buttery, garlicky flavor that’s hard to resist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use larger potatoes?
A: Yes, if you don’t have small potatoes, you can use larger varieties like Russet potatoes. Just cut them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.
Q: Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
A: While these potatoes are best served fresh, you can partially prepare them ahead of time by seasoning and arranging them on a baking sheet. Bake just before serving for the crispiest results.
Q: Can I make this recipe with sweet potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will work well with this recipe, but keep in mind they may need a slightly shorter baking time as they tend to cook faster.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness.
These Crispy Parmesan Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. They’re simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable with your favorite herbs and spices. Serve them alongside roast chicken, grilled steak, or even eggs for a delicious, crispy addition to your meal.
Give this recipe a try, and it will surely become a family favorite that you’ll come back to again and again. Happy cooking!
