This Crispy Parmesan Potatoes recipe stands out for its irresistible golden crust created by finely grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a savory, nutty flavor while creating a satisfyingly crisp texture.
The use of baby potatoes ensures tender insides, perfectly complemented by the flavorful olive oil and garlic coating.
Crispy Parmesan Roasted Baby Potatoes
Equipment
- 1 rimmed baking sheet
- Parchment paper (enough to line the baking sheet)
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- Fine grater (microplane)
- Thin metal spatula
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves finely minced or grated
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a slight kick
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1½ pounds baby yellow potatoes washed and dried (about 24 ounces)
- ¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese about 2 ounces
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix the Flavor Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir these ingredients well until evenly blended. Add the chopped parsley to the mixture and give it a quick toss.
- Prepare and Coat Potatoes: Slice each baby potato in half. As you cut, immediately add the potato halves into the bowl with the oil and spice mixture to prevent discoloration. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the garlicky oil and seasoning.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan cheese over the coated potatoes. Toss lightly just enough to distribute the cheese without clumping, so it adheres evenly to each potato half.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, placing them cut-side down. If any Parmesan remains in the bowl, spoon it onto the flat surfaces of the potatoes for extra crispiness. It’s fine if the potatoes are close but avoid stacking.
- Roast Until Golden and Tender: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25 to 35 minutes. About halfway through, rotate the pan to promote even browning. The potatoes are ready when tender to a fork and the Parmesan has turned a deep golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the tray from the oven and allow the potatoes to rest for 5 minutes. This resting step lets the cheese cool slightly, firming up its crisp texture. Using a thin spatula, flip the potatoes to reveal their crispy, cheesy sides. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Parmesan Cheese: For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan with a fine, pebbly texture. Pre-grated or powdered cheese may not crisp up as well.
- Potato Size: Baby potatoes should ideally be 1 to 1½ inches across. Larger potatoes can be quartered to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Optional Heat: Adding cayenne pepper is optional but adds a nice subtle heat that complements the cheesy flavors.
- Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating Tips: Reheat in a preheated 375°F oven on a lined baking sheet, cut side down, for 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy again. Alternatively, use an air fryer for quicker reheating.
Beyond taste, this dish offers nutritional benefits such as being relatively low in calories while providing plant-based protein from the Parmesan cheese and healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil.
It’s a fiber-rich option thanks to the potatoes, supporting digestion and sustained energy release.
Simple and quick to prepare, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, requiring minimal hands-on time and offering a crowd-pleasing side that pairs well with a variety of mains.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Rimmed Baking Sheet
This essential tool provides ample space and airflow for roasting potatoes evenly, ensuring that every piece crisps up beautifully. Its raised edges prevent spills, making cleanup easier and cooking safer.
Parchment Paper
Perfect for lining your baking sheet, parchment paper prevents sticking and facilitates quick cleanup while helping maintain the potatoes’ crispy texture without added oil.
Large Mixing Bowl
Ideal for tossing potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and seasoning, this bowl allows for even coating and easy mixing without spills, making seasoning effortless.
Fine Grater (Microplane)
Used to grate garlic and Parmesan finely, this tool maximizes flavor release and helps achieve the perfect crispy, golden topping that clings to the potatoes.
Thin Metal Spatula
This tool helps flip the potatoes gently without breaking their crispy crust, ensuring an intact, visually appealing presentation when serving.
Chef’s Secrets for Crispy Perfection
Achieving perfectly crispy Parmesan potatoes comes down to a few key details.
First, using finely grated Parmesan cheese is essential; it melts evenly and crisps beautifully without clumping.
Coating the potatoes immediately after cutting prevents browning and helps the seasoning stick.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—while they can be close, stacking leads to steaming rather than roasting, which affects texture.
Roasting at a high temperature ensures the cheese browns nicely while the potatoes become tender inside.
Another tip is to let the potatoes rest after baking; this cool-down period allows the Parmesan crust to firm up and develop that satisfying crunch.
Lastly, a thin metal spatula helps flip the potatoes gently, preserving their golden crust and presentation.
These simple secrets transform everyday potatoes into a flavorful, restaurant-quality side.
Serving Suggestions That Impress Guests
These crispy Parmesan potatoes are incredibly versatile and complement a wide range of dishes.
Serve them alongside roasted or grilled chicken, pork chops, or a juicy steak for a hearty meal.
They also pair beautifully with fresh salads or steamed vegetables to balance textures and flavors. For a cozy vegetarian option, enjoy them with a rich mushroom gravy or alongside sautéed greens.
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a fresh note.
For gatherings, they work well as a finger food or appetizer—offer a side of garlic aioli or marinara sauce for dipping.
Their irresistible crunch and savory taste make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Storage Tips to Maintain Freshness
To keep your crispy Parmesan potatoes tasting fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly.
They will stay good for up to four days. When reheating, avoid microwaving as it can make the potatoes soggy.
Instead, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 10 minutes on a lined baking sheet, arranging them cut side down to regain crispness.
Alternatively, an air fryer works wonders for reheating, restoring the original texture quickly without drying them out.
Avoid freezing the potatoes, as thawing often leads to a loss of their crisp exterior.
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying these potatoes as deliciously as the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While baby yellow potatoes work best for their size and texture, you can use red potatoes or fingerlings. Just adjust cooking times if your potatoes are larger or thicker.
2. Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
Parmesan is crucial for the signature crispy, cheesy crust. You can try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, but avoid pre-shredded cheese blends as they may not crisp properly.
3. Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?
You can coat the potatoes in oil and seasoning a few hours before roasting, but add the Parmesan just before cooking to prevent clumping and sogginess.
4. How do I make the recipe spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper or sprinkle in paprika or chili flakes. You could also serve with a spicy dipping sauce to elevate the heat.
5. Are these potatoes suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They keep well refrigerated and reheat nicely, making them a convenient, flavorful side for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
