Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and impressive, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. This delightful dish features tender, creamy red potatoes with a crispy, golden exterior. It’s a go-to for me on busy weeknights or when I have friends over for dinner. Everyone loves them, and trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!

These Parmesan roasted potatoes are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual meal at home, they fit perfectly into any occasion. You’ll find that they complement just about any main course while bringing that warm, home-cooked vibe to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can focus on enjoying your meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these tasty potatoes, making them a hit at dinner.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare everything in advance, freeing you up to enjoy your guests or evening.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that elevates any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to make these delightful Parmesan roasted potatoes!

For the Potatoes

• 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
• 2 lbs red potatoes (washed)

For the Seasoning

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons herb seasoning (divided; any brand – I use Mrs. Dash)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Baking

• nonstick cooking spray

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add More Herbs: Toss in fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try using cheddar or feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Mix in some bell peppers or onions with the potatoes before baking for extra color and taste.

How to Make Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by adding 1 stick of butter to a 9×13 baking pan. This will create that delicious buttery base that makes these potatoes so special.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Place your baking pan into a cool oven, then turn it to 400°F. As it preheats, the butter will melt evenly throughout the pan—this is key for achieving that crispy bottom.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While the oven heats up, cut the washed red potatoes in half and score each potato lightly. Scoring allows seasonings to soak in better and helps achieve that crispy texture we all love.

Step 4: Mix Your Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese with 2 tablespoons of herb seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mixing these together creates an amazing flavor blend that will coat our potatoes beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble in the Pan

Once the butter is melted, sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture onto the bottom of your pan. Next, place your potatoes cut side down right on top of this mix—this ensures those flavors really penetrate into every bite!

Step 6: Final Touches

Spray the tops of your potatoes with nonstick cooking spray and sprinkle with the remaining tablespoon of herb seasoning. This will help them roast to perfection.

Step 7: Bake Until Tender

Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The aroma will fill your kitchen as they cook—get ready for compliments at dinner!

And there you have it—perfectly crispy yet creamy Parmesan roasted potatoes that everyone will love! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Making the perfect Parmesan roasted potatoes is all about those little touches that elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your potatoes are crispy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor of your potatoes even more than dried herbs. They bring a vibrant taste that complements the richness of the butter and cheese.
• Cut evenly: Ensure your potato halves are cut uniformly so they cook at the same rate. This helps achieve even tenderness and crispiness across all pieces.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each potato enough space in the pan to allow for proper airflow while baking. This prevents steaming and ensures a delightful crisp on each piece.
• Try different cheeses: While Parmesan adds a delicious nutty flavor, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a unique twist on taste.
• Let them rest: Allowing your roasted potatoes to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Parmesan roasted potatoes make for an eye-catching side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Their golden-brown exterior will not only tempt taste buds but also add a beautiful touch to your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds color and freshness, brightening up the dish while complementing its flavors.
• Lemon zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top right before serving introduces a zingy brightness that balances out the richness of the potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add a delightful crunch and healthy element to your meal.
• Crispy green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a contrast in textures and keeps things light.
• Quinoa pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with sautéed onions, garlic, and peas pairs wonderfully with Parmesan roasted potatoes for a hearty yet healthy option.
• Herbed chicken breast: A simple herb-marinated chicken breast complements the cheesy potatoes perfectly, making for an easy yet satisfying main course.

These ideas will help you create a balanced and delightful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite of your deliciously crispy Parmesan roasted potatoes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Parmesan roasted potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can prepare them ahead of time and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the potatoes are completely cooled before freezing.
• Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and label with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the leftover potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a microwave, but they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Parmesan roasted potatoes!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a unique flavor, you could substitute it with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different twist.

How do I make Parmesan roasted potatoes crispy?

For perfectly crispy Parmesan roasted potatoes, ensure you score the cut sides and use nonstick cooking spray generously. Baking them cut side down also helps achieve that desirable crunch!

Can I make these Parmesan roasted potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and simply bake them when you’re ready to serve. They also store well in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Parmesan roasted potatoes as much as I do! They not only add flavor and texture to any meal but also bring warmth to your table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these potatoes are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to dive into this recipe; it’s an incredible addition to your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!