If you’re craving a side dish that combines crispy, golden edges with rich, nutty flavor, the Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe is an absolute must-try. These potatoes are tossed in aromatic browned butter and garlic, baked to perfection until irresistibly crisp, and then sprinkled generously with savory Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple recipe that transforms humble baby potatoes into a sensational, comforting dish that feels both gourmet and homey at the same time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe plays a key role. From the creamy butter that browns to caramelized perfection to the fresh parsley that adds a pop of color, everything combines to create layers of flavor and texture you’ll love.
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved: Choose Yukon Gold or red potatoes for that perfect balance of creamy interior and crispy skin.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This is the star ingredient, browned to bring a warm, nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve that ideal crispiness without burning the butter.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that complements the browned butter beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild kick and balances richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary): Offers a subtle herbal note that pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, umami finish that melts slightly on the hot potatoes.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and a vibrant green color that brightens every bite.
How to Make Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting the butter over medium heat in a small saucepan. Stir it frequently to prevent burning until it takes on a rich golden brown color and fills your kitchen with a nutty aroma, about 5 to 6 minutes. This browned butter is the secret weapon that adds depth and complexity to the potatoes.
Step 2: Mix in Olive Oil and Garlic
Once browned, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the olive oil and minced garlic. The olive oil not only raises the smoke point for roasting but also helps distribute the garlic flavor evenly, infusing every potato piece with savory goodness.
Step 3: Toss Potatoes with Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with the browned butter mixture. Add salt, pepper, and dried thyme, then toss everything until the potatoes are evenly coated. This ensures every bite has that irresistible mix of browned butter and herbs.
Step 4: Arrange and Roast
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then spread the potatoes cut-side down in a single layer. This helps them crisp up perfectly on one flat surface. Roast in the oven preheated to 425°F (220°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through to achieve golden, even browning.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Garnish
After roasting, immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the hot potatoes and toss gently to melt the cheese slightly. Finish by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor that brightens the rich dish.
How to Serve Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
While the fresh parsley garnish is classic and beautiful, you can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or some finely grated lemon zest for a surprising twist that brightens the richness of the browned butter and Parmesan.
Side Dishes
This recipe makes a fantastic companion to roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a colorful vegetable medley. The crispy texture and savory flavors make it a versatile side that complements a wide variety of dishes, enhancing any meal from casual dinners to special occasions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a creative touch, serve these Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe in mini cast iron skillets or on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh herbs and lemon wedges. You can also turn them into a loaded potato bowl by adding sour cream, chives, and crispy bacon toppings for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The potatoes will stay flavorful but may lose some crispiness, which can easily be revived with reheating methods.
Freezing
Although freezing roasted potatoes is possible, it’s not ideal for preserving their crisp texture. If you must freeze, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. Use within a month for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that perfect crisp, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in a hot oven rather than the microwave. This helps maintain the roasted exterior and ensures every bite is as delightful as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use regular salted butter, but be mindful of the salt amount added to the potatoes to avoid over-salting. Unsalted butter allows better control over seasoning.
What’s the best way to ensure the potatoes get crispy?
Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking and then drying them thoroughly helps remove excess starch and results in extra crispy roasted potatoes.
Can I substitute Parmesan with another cheese?
While Parmesan offers the perfect salty, nutty flavor, you can try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or Asiago for a slightly milder option. Just make sure to use a hard cheese that melts well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based buttery spread and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor. Keep in mind the flavor will be close but not identical.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Experiment with rosemary, smoked paprika, or fresh thyme leaves for different flavor profiles. Just be cautious not to overpower the delicate browned butter taste.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe the Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe is one of those simple joys that can brighten any meal with minimal effort. It’s a beautiful blend of comforting textures and rich, layered flavors that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to potato side that everyone raves about!
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Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan recipe features crispy, golden baby potatoes coated in nutty browned butter, garlic, and fragrant thyme, then roasted to perfection and topped with savory Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. It’s an easy and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
Browned Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting the potatoes.
- Make Browned Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, stirring frequently until it turns a golden brown color and emits a nutty aroma about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in olive oil and minced garlic.
- Toss Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with the browned butter mixture, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated with all the flavors.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the potatoes cut-side down in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure even roasting and crispy edges.
- Roast Potatoes: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the potatoes once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the potatoes from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over them. Toss gently to distribute the cheese while the potatoes are still hot.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm as a savory and crispy side dish.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold or red baby potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- For extra crispy potatoes, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking, then pat them dry thoroughly.
