Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe

If you’re searching for a side dish that’s both crave-worthy and incredibly easy to whip up, this Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine golden, crispy baby red potatoes baked to perfection, enveloped in a luscious butter layer and a crunchy Parmesan-panko crust that simply melts in your mouth. Each bite delivers a glorious combination of rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying texture that pairs seamlessly with any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe brings simple ingredients together to create something truly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe relies on a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each element plays a key role in achieving that perfect balance of creamy, crispy, and cheesy goodness that makes this dish stand out.

• Salted butter (3 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps the coating crisp up beautifully while infusing the potatoes with buttery flavor.
• Italian-style Panko breadcrumbs (½ cup): Provides an irresistible crunch and light texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft potatoes.
• Pre-grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Brings sharp, nutty notes that intensify the cheesy crust.
• Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds an extra layer of freshness and melty goodness to the dish.
• Baby red potatoes (1.5 pounds, halved lengthwise): Their tender interior and thin skins roast up beautifully and absorb all the flavors.
• Minced fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Offers a pop of color and a mild herbal brightness that balances the richness.

How to Make Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. You’ll want the temperature just right to get those potatoes perfectly roasted with a golden, crispy crust.

Step 2: Coat the Pan with Butter

Pour the melted butter into the baking sheet and gently tilt it so the entire bottom is evenly coated. This butter layer isn’t just about flavor — it helps the breadcrumb mixture stick and creates a luscious base for the crispy crust to form.

Step 3: Mix the Parmesan and Breadcrumbs

In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian-style Panko breadcrumbs, pre-grated Parmesan, and freshly shredded Parmesan until well combined. This mixture is your secret weapon for that perfectly crisp and cheesy topping everyone will rave about.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Crumb Mixture

Sprinkle the Parmesan-breadcrumb blend evenly over the buttered baking sheet. If needed, gently shake the baking sheet to distribute the crumbs, but resist the urge to spread them with a spoon — letting the crumbs fall naturally keeps the texture just right.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes

Place the baby red potatoes cut side down on top of the crumb mixture, pressing them gently into the crumbs so they adhere well. This step ensures that each potato gets a thick, crunchy coating that will bake into that irresistible golden crust.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender and Golden

Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 18 to 23 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the potatoes are soft enough to be pierced easily with a fork and the cheese topping has turned a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on them to catch that perfect crispness.

Step 7: Let Cool Slightly

When the potatoes are out of the oven, give them at least 5 minutes to cool. This rest period helps the crust set, making it easier to lift the potatoes cleanly off the pan without losing that crunchy layer.

Step 8: Serve with the Crust Intact

Gently run a spatula or knife between the potatoes to separate them without breaking the crust. Removing the potatoes while keeping the crust intact is a true delight — it’s what makes this Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe so memorable.

Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy

Serve your potatoes hot, optionally garnished with freshly minced parsley for a vibrant touch. Pair with dips or sour cream if you like, but honestly, each mouthful is already packed with enough flavor to be wonderful on its own.

How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic choice to add a burst of color and a subtle herbal note to the dish. You can also try sprinkling a little extra Parmesan just before serving or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a mild kick. These small finishing touches elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes work beautifully alongside roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish. Their crispy, cheesy texture makes them a perfect partner for simple greens or a bright salad, balancing hearty and fresh elements on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, try serving the potatoes on a wooden board with ramekins of flavored aioli or garlic sour cream dips. They also shine tossed with sautéed garlic and herbs before serving or combined with roasted vegetables for a colorful medley.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Parmesan Roasted Potatoes keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain as much of the crispiness as possible, store them on a paper towel-lined container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

While freezing may alter the crispy texture slightly, you can freeze the cooled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 2 months and are perfect for a quick reheat later.

Reheating

To bring back the crunch and warmth, reheat leftover potatoes in a 375°F oven on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture, as it tends to make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe?

Baby red potatoes are ideal because of their size and tender flesh, but you can substitute with baby Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on potato size to achieve perfect tenderness and crust.

Is it necessary to use both pre-grated and fresh Parmesan cheese?

Using both ensures a balance of flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan melts smoothly into the breadcrumb mixture, while freshly shredded Parmesan adds more intense cheesy notes and a creamier finish.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

You can swap butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan Parmesan-style cheese. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious and satisfy those cravings.

What is the best way to get an extra crispy crust?

Coating the baking sheet evenly with butter and pressing the potatoes firmly into the crumb mixture before baking tips the scales toward maximum crispiness. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan so heat circulates freely around each potato.

Can this dish be doubled for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking sheet or two pans. Just be sure not to pack the potatoes too tightly, so they roast evenly with that signature Parmesan crunch.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s the perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and buttery goodness that transforms humble baby potatoes into something truly special. Give it a go for your next meal and enjoy the smiles that follow—because some recipes are just that good.

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