Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

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Whenever I want something irresistibly crispy, garlicky, and deeply satisfying without much fuss, I make these Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. It’s the kind of side dish that doesn’t need much of an introduction—each bite gives you golden edges, fluffy centers, and a salty-cheesy crunch that has everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds). I love how these little potatoes get a flavor upgrade just by adding Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. It’s humble food, elevated.

This recipe is one of my go-tos, whether I’m hosting a dinner or cooking for myself. It pairs perfectly with almost anything—grilled chicken, roasted fish, or a simple salad. And the best part? These roasted potatoes come together quickly and fill the kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them on repeat.

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Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe

• Crispy edges and fluffy insides
• A punch of flavor from garlic, herbs, and Parmesan
• Simple ingredients you likely already have
• Easily scalable for a crowd
• Works great as a side dish or a snack on its own

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What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Parmesan Roasted Potatoes?

I always reach for baby potatoes or small Yukon golds when making this recipe. Their waxy texture holds up beautifully in the oven, keeping the insides creamy while the outside crisps up. Red potatoes also work well if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to choose potatoes that are small and evenly sized so they roast evenly and don’t dry out.

Cutting them in half gives the flat side maximum contact with the baking sheet, helping you get that golden crust we all love. If you’re using larger potatoes, just chop them into smaller chunks, but keep the skins on for extra flavor and texture.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to tweak things, here are some ideas that won’t compromise flavor:

• Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Herbs: No fresh parsley? Use dried oregano, rosemary, or thyme.
• Garlic: Garlic powder works in a pinch if you’re out of fresh garlic.
• Oil: Olive oil is classic, but avocado oil or melted butter adds richness.
• Add-ons: Crumbled bacon, crushed red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavor.

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Ingredients for This Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe

• Baby Potatoes – These are the star of the dish. Their small size and creamy texture roast beautifully with crispy edges.
• Olive Oil – Helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven and carries the flavor of the garlic and herbs.
• Garlic – Adds a deep, savory flavor that infuses into the oil and coats every bite.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated finely, it melts into a golden crust on the potatoes while adding a nutty, salty bite.
• Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish and balances the richness of the cheese and potatoes.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing every other flavor in the dish.
• Optional Bacon Bits – For extra crunch and smokiness, these bits take the flavor up a notch.

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Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and dry the baby potatoes thoroughly. Slice each one in half to expose a flat surface for roasting. This is what gets you that beautiful, golden-brown finish.

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Step 2: Season and Toss

In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure each potato is well coated—you want the oil and seasonings to cling to every surface.

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Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the potatoes cut side down in a single layer without overlapping. This ensures maximum crispiness.

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Step 4: Roast Until Golden

Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes or until the bottoms are deep golden brown and the insides are tender. Don’t flip them—let them develop that caramelized crust.

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Step 5: Add Parmesan and Finish

Take the potatoes out of the oven and sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan evenly over them. Return to the oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese into a golden crust.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and, if using, crispy bacon bits. Serve hot, and enjoy that cheesy-crispy goodness.

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How Long to Cook the Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

The total cook time is about 35 to 40 minutes.
Start by roasting the seasoned potatoes cut-side down for 30–35 minutes until they’re golden and tender. Then, after sprinkling with Parmesan, return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and crisp up slightly.

Keep an eye on them in the last 5–10 minutes to avoid over-browning.

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Tips for Perfect Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

• Dry the potatoes well: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Make sure they’re completely dry before roasting.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt or crisp as nicely.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the potatoes space to breathe; too much crowding will cause them to steam instead of roast.
• Place them cut-side down: This maximizes contact with the hot baking sheet and gives you that golden crust.
• Preheat your oven fully: A hot oven is essential for that crispy exterior and fluffy inside.
• Use parchment or a non-stick surface: It prevents sticking and helps achieve that crispy bottom layer.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the drying step: Wet potatoes steam in the oven instead of roasting, leaving them soft instead of crispy.
• Using too much oil: A light coating is all you need; too much and they’ll turn greasy and soggy.
• Adding Parmesan too early: If you sprinkle it on before roasting, it can burn. Add it in the last 5 minutes for perfect golden edges.
• Crowding the pan: Overlapping potatoes won’t crisp up properly. Use two trays if necessary.
• Underseasoning: Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper. The potatoes can handle it.

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What to Serve With Parmesan Roasted Potatoes?

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

The light, citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy potatoes.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Savory, juicy bites of steak next to crispy potatoes is a match made in heaven.

Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce

The freshness of dill and the tenderness of salmon contrast perfectly with the crispy potatoes.

Fried or Poached Eggs

Turn this side into breakfast or brunch with a runny egg on top.

Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A light, tangy salad balances the richness of the roasted potatoes.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A double veggie hit—earthy sprouts and crispy potatoes are great together.

Chicken Parmesan

Double the Parmesan? Why not. The potatoes work wonderfully alongside a saucy, cheesy chicken dish.

Grilled Sausages

The crispy-cheesy potatoes soak up the juicy, flavorful drippings perfectly.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Parmesan Roasted Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in a hot oven or air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 5–7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soft and lose that lovely crust.

If you want to make them ahead of time, you can prep the potatoes and season them, then store covered in the fridge and roast fresh when ready.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 1g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 280mg

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients used and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby ones?

Yes! Just cut them into smaller chunks about 1 to 1½ inches thick. Make sure they’re similar in size so they roast evenly.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Not at all. The skins add texture and flavor—and they help the potatoes crisp up better.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or skip the cheese entirely. Use olive oil and double up on herbs for flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Use an oven or air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. This brings back their crispy edges way better than a microwave.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the potatoes and seasoning mix ahead, but roast them just before serving for the best texture.

Is parchment paper necessary?

It helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking, but you can also use a nonstick baking sheet or lightly greased foil.

Can I add more seasonings?

Absolutely—smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or even Cajun spice blend would be delicious variations.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Make sure potatoes are dry, the oven is hot, and you don’t crowd the baking sheet. That trio guarantees crunch.

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Conclusion

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are the kind of side dish that delivers every single time—crispy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. They’re simple enough for a weeknight and delicious enough to show off at a dinner party. With a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have golden, flavorful potatoes that everyone loves. Once you try them, don’t be surprised if they become a regular feature in your kitchen.

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