If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food side that’s bursting with flavor and texture, look no further than this Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe. These golden halved potatoes are perfectly roasted to achieve a satisfying crispiness on the outside while staying tender on the inside, all coated with a heavenly layer of Parmesan cheese and a mix of fragrant spices. This dish is as simple to make as it is irresistible to eat, making it a surefire star alongside your favorite main courses or as a party-worthy snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is essential to creating those beautifully crisp and flavorful potatoes everyone will rave about. From the creamy Parmesan that melts into a crunchy crust to the perfectly balanced seasoning, every component has its role.
- 2 pounds baby potatoes or Yukon Golds: These varieties offer the perfect size and creamy texture to crisp up beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the necessary fat to promote browning and keep the potatoes moist inside.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sharp, salty element that turns into a crispy coating when baked.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a fragrant, savory depth that complements the cheese perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Introduces a subtle sweetness and enhances overall flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky warmth and beautiful color to the potatoes.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the potatoes and cheese.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Freshens the dish with a herbaceous note and a pop of bright green color.
How to Make Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is crucial for getting that perfect crispy crust on your potatoes. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Parmesan and Spices
In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend will be the flavorful foundation that crisps up beautifully and clings to each potato half.
Step 3: Oil the Baking Sheet and Sprinkle Cheese Mixture
Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil onto the lined baking sheet and spread it evenly over the surface. Then, sprinkle the Parmesan and spice mixture evenly on top of the oil. This method helps the cheese bake into a golden, crunchy layer beneath the potatoes.
Step 4: Arrange the Potatoes
Place the halved potatoes cut-side down directly onto the cheese-coated baking sheet. This contact is where the magic happens, developing that crispy Parmesan crust. Drizzle or brush the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the potato tops to ensure they roast to golden perfection.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Bake the potatoes for 30 to 35 minutes. Resist the urge to move them around during baking; this is key to achieving that signature crispiness and to allow the cheese to adhere properly. You’ll know they’re done when the potatoes are fork-tender and their bottoms exibit a glorious golden crust.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the potatoes cool for about 5 minutes. Use a spatula to gently lift them from the baking sheet—watch out for that delicious, crispy Parmesan layer! Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe is how well it pairs with simple garnishes. Fresh parsley adds a lovely herbal brightness, but you can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish further, cutting through the richness with a zesty punch.
Side Dishes
These golden bites make a fantastic side for an array of mains. Pair them with grilled chicken or steak, serve alongside eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast, or complement a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. Their crispy texture and savory flavor make them a versatile companion that elevates any plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these potatoes on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic aioli or a tangy marinara. For gatherings, thread them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and herbs for a delightful appetizer. No matter how you present them, these potatoes will steal the spotlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining much of their delicious flavor and texture.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Be aware that the crispiness may lighten upon thawing, but reheating can help restore some crunch.
Reheating
To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a 400-degree oven for about 10 minutes. This method revives their crispiness far better than microwave reheating, which tends to make potatoes soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular large potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut large potatoes into evenly sized pieces, about the size of the baby potato halves. This helps ensure even cooking and crispiness in the Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe uses no gluten-containing ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-free diets. Just double-check the Parmesan cheese to ensure it doesn’t contain any additives with gluten.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap Parmesan cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative that crisps well, such as nutritional yeast mixed with ground nuts, though the flavor will differ slightly.
What’s the best way to get the potatoes extra crispy?
High oven heat, cutting the potatoes uniformly, and not moving them during baking are the secrets to extra crispiness in this Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Rosemary, thyme, or even a touch of chili powder can complement this recipe nicely. Feel free to experiment to find what you love best.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone who loves potatoes with a luxurious crunch and rich flavor. Its simplicity and delicious results make it a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with those you love—happy roasting!
Print
Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes are golden, tender, and packed with savory Parmesan cheese and aromatic spices. Perfectly roasted to achieve a crunchy bottom layer and fluffy interior, this side dish pairs wonderfully with chicken, steak, or eggs. Simple to prepare and gluten-free, they deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby potatoes or Yukon Golds, halved
Seasoning Mix
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Parmesan Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Coat the bottom of the parchment-lined baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Evenly sprinkle the Parmesan seasoning mixture over the oiled surface to create a delicious crust on the potatoes.
- Arrange Potatoes: Place the halved potatoes cut-side down directly onto the Parmesan mixture on the baking sheet. This contact helps crisp up the potato bottoms.
- Apply Remaining Olive Oil: Brush or drizzle the tops of the potatoes with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to promote even roasting and moisture retention.
- Bake Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the bottoms are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the potatoes to cool for about 5 minutes. Use a spatula to gently lift them off the pan to retain the crispy base. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For best results, avoid moving the potatoes while baking to let the Parmesan cheese crisp up and adhere properly to the potato bottoms.
- This dish pairs excellently as a side with chicken, steak, or eggs.
- For a spicy twist, add crushed red pepper flakes to the Parmesan seasoning mix before baking.
