Parmesan Potatoes are the perfect side dish that brings a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch to your dinner table. These small, tender potatoes are coated in a heavenly mix of olive oil, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese, creating a dish that is both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy steak, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad, these Parmesan Potatoes are sure to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can easily recreate it at home.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The magic of Parmesan Potatoes lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. The small potatoes become tender and fluffy on the inside while achieving a crispy golden exterior thanks to the olive oil and Parmesan. The cheese adds a savory depth of flavor, making each bite a delicious experience. This recipe is also incredibly versatile; you can enjoy it as a side dish for any meal or even as a snack.
What You’ll Gather
- 1 ½ pounds small potatoes – Baby potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, work wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil – Use your preferred oil for roasting.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – The star ingredient that adds richness and depth.
Equipment at a Glance
- Large mixing bowl – For tossing the potatoes with the oil and seasonings.
- Baking sheet – To roast the potatoes evenly.
- Oven – Preheat it to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Spatula or tongs – For turning the potatoes as they cook.
Parmesan Potatoes Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to achieving that crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the small potatoes to remove any dirt. You can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients, or peel them if you prefer.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, add the cleaned potatoes, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well-coated.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned potatoes. Toss gently again to ensure the cheese evenly coats the potatoes.
Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they have enough space to roast evenly without overcrowding.
Step 6: Roast the Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, use a spatula or tongs to turn the potatoes to ensure they brown evenly.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
The potatoes are done when they are golden brown and fork-tender. If you want an extra crispy finish, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the Parmesan Potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm as a side dish or snack, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Substitutions by Category
- Potatoes: You can use fingerling potatoes or even halved larger potatoes if small ones are not available.
- Oil: Canola oil or avocado oil work as excellent substitutes for olive oil.
- Cheese: For a different flavor, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Seasonings: Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.
Chef’s Notes
- For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating the potatoes in the oil and seasonings for about 30 minutes before roasting.
- If you’re serving a crowd, simply double the recipe and use two baking sheets to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t skip the turning step halfway through roasting; it’s essential for achieving that golden color on all sides.
- Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for a refreshing touch.
Shelf Life & Storage
Leftover Parmesan Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore some of their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Your Top Questions
Can I make Parmesan Potatoes in advance?
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prep them in advance by washing and cutting them. Just toss them with the oil and seasonings right before roasting.
What can I serve with Parmesan Potatoes?
Parmesan Potatoes pair wonderfully with almost any main dish, such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty vegetable stir-fry. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread!
Can I freeze Parmesan Potatoes?
It’s not recommended to freeze cooked potatoes, as they can lose their texture. If you want to prep ahead, consider parboiling the potatoes and then freezing them before adding oil and cheese.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover potatoes?
The best way to reheat leftover Parmesan Potatoes is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and delicious!
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Serve & Enjoy
Now that you have mastered this simple yet scrumptious Parmesan Potatoes recipe, you’re ready to impress your family and friends. The combination of crispy, cheesy goodness with tender potato makes for a delightful dish that complements any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, these Parmesan Potatoes will quickly become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits!
Let your taste buds revel in the cheesy, savory delight of Parmesan Potatoes!
Parmesan Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds small potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil use your preferred oil for roasting
- 1 teaspoon salt enhances the overall flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper adds a subtle kick
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to achieving that crispy exterior.
- Wash and scrub the small potatoes to remove any dirt. You can leave the skins on for texture or peel them if you prefer.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cleaned potatoes, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss until well-coated.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned potatoes and toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they have enough space.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- The potatoes are done when golden brown and fork-tender. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve warm as a side dish or snack.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
- Spatula or tongs
Notes
- Marinate the potatoes in oil and seasonings for 30 minutes for a more intense flavor.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings and use two baking sheets.
- Turn the potatoes halfway through roasting for even coloring.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a refreshing touch.
