Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Parmesan roasted potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. With a creamy center and crispy exterior, they are sure to impress your guests or family. This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday dinners. You’ll love the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese combined with aromatic herbs that elevate these potatoes to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious side dish ready in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of butter, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
• Crispy & Creamy Texture: Enjoy the satisfying contrast between the crispy skin and the soft, creamy inside of each potato.
• Customizable Seasonings: Feel free to switch up the herb seasoning to match your personal preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to make these Parmesan roasted potatoes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Nonstick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking pan: Ideal for ensuring even cooking and maximizing crispiness across all potatoes.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining spices and cheese evenly before applying them to the potatoes.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cuts when halving and scoring the potatoes, which helps them cook evenly.
• Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and helps achieve that desired golden brown finish on top of the potatoes.

Ingredients

To create these tasty Parmesan roasted potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

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)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Baking

• nonstick cooking spray

How to Make Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Add 1 stick of butter to a 9×13 baking pan. Place baking pan into a cool oven. Turn the oven to 400°F (200°C) and let the butter melt as the oven preheats.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Once the butter has melted, remove the pan from the oven. Cut the washed red potatoes in half and score each potato lightly with a knife.

Step 3: Mix Seasoning

In a mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of herb seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble

Sprinkle the seasoning mixture onto the bottom of the baking pan with melted butter. Place halved potatoes cut side down directly on top of this mixture.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Spray the tops of each potato with nonstick cooking spray. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of herb seasoning.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Enjoy your homemade Parmesan roasted potatoes as a delicious addition to any meal!

How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Parmesan roasted potatoes make for a delightful side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Their crispy exterior and creamy interior pair well with numerous flavors, making them versatile for any meal.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs provide a light and flavorful contrast to the richness of the potatoes.

Serve with Beef Stew

• A hearty beef stew can be enhanced by the crispy texture of Parmesan roasted potatoes, soaking up the savory juices.

Accompany Lamb Chops

• The bold flavors of lamb chops balance beautifully with the cheesy, herby notes of the potatoes for a gourmet meal.

Add to a Salad Plate

• Tossing these potatoes into a fresh salad adds warmth and substance, making it a filling option for lunch or dinner.

Pair with Turkey Breast

• Slices of roasted turkey breast complement the Parmesan flavor while adding lean protein to your plate.

Enjoy as a Snack

• These potatoes are tasty on their own! Serve them warm with garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce as a snack or appetizer.

How to Perfect Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Perfecting Parmesan roasted potatoes requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to achieve crispy and flavorful results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh red potatoes will yield the best texture and taste. Avoid old or sprouted potatoes for optimal results.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each potato space in the baking pan. This allows hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking and crispiness.

• Score the Potatoes: Scoring creates more surface area, which helps absorb flavor from the seasoning and enhances crispiness.

• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your oven’s accuracy, check for doneness around 35 minutes. Every oven is different, so adjust as needed.

• Season Generously: Ensure you distribute enough seasoning evenly over both sides of the potatoes for maximum flavor impact.

• Serve Immediately: These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they are at their crispiest.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

When planning your meal, consider pairing Parmesan roasted potatoes with these delicious side dishes that enhance any dining experience.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic add a vibrant color and fresh crunch alongside your potatoes.

2. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of roasted potatoes.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts cooked until golden brown complement the cheese in the potatoes beautifully.

4. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine and creamy dressing that balances perfectly with hearty sides like roasted potatoes.

5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness that works well against savory dishes, while also being easy to prepare.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables create an attractive and nutritious addition to your table.

7. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs creates an interesting texture contrast alongside crispy Parmesan potatoes.

8. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli is not only healthy but also provides a mild flavor that pairs well with richer dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan roasted potatoes, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Using cold butter: Starting with cold butter can lead to uneven cooking. Always melt the butter in a warm oven for even distribution.
• Not scoring the potatoes: Failing to score the potatoes can prevent the seasoning from penetrating. Make sure to cut shallow slits on each potato for better flavor absorption.
• Skipping the herb seasoning: Neglecting to add herb seasoning can result in bland potatoes. Use a mix of your favorite herbs to enhance flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking pan: Placing too many potatoes too close together may lead to steaming instead of roasting. Ensure there’s space between them for maximum crispiness.
• Not checking for doneness: Forgetting to check if the potatoes are tender can ruin your dish. Use a fork or knife to poke them and ensure they are cooked through.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a little oil until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Parmesan roasted potatoes.

How do I make Parmesan roasted potatoes crispy?

To achieve crispy Parmesan roasted potatoes, ensure that you score the potatoes and give them enough space while baking so they roast rather than steam.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

Yes! You can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a unique twist on your Parmesan roasted potatoes.

What type of potatoes work best?

Red potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and ability to hold up well during roasting. However, Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes also work beautifully.

Can I customize the seasoning?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices according to your taste preferences when making Parmesan roasted potatoes.

Are these suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They store well and reheat nicely, making them perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan roasted potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a versatile addition to any meal. Their creamy interior paired with a crispy exterior makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different herbs or spices based on your preference!