Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish that combines simplicity and deliciousness, let me introduce you to my beloved Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. These little gems are oven-baked to perfection, boasting a creamy center and a beautifully crispy exterior. Trust me; this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s so easy to whip up any night of the week. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just trying to elevate your weeknight dinner, these potatoes are sure to impress!

The best part? They’re incredibly versatile! You can serve them alongside any main course, and I promise they will steal the show every time. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have more moments to enjoy with family.
• Family-friendly flavors: Everyone loves potatoes, especially when they’re sprinkled with delicious Parmesan!
• Crispy and creamy combination: The contrast between the crispy top and creamy inside makes every bite satisfying.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as an easy side.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the herbs or cheese to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy for anyone to recreate this dish at home. Let’s gather everything we need for our Parmesan Roasted Potatoes.

For the Potatoes

• 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons herb seasoning (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 lbs red potatoes (washed)
• nonstick cooking spray

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some spice: Toss in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Herb twist: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for unique flavor profiles.
• Cheesy goodness: Swap out Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar or feta for a new twist.
• Veggie add-ins: Roast some garlic cloves or Brussels sprouts alongside the potatoes for a colorful medley.

How to Make Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Butter

Start by adding 1 stick of butter to a 9×13 baking pan. This step is crucial because as we melt the butter while preheating the oven, it will create a deliciously rich base that enhances the flavor of our potatoes.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Place the baking pan into a cool oven and then turn it on to 400°F. This method allows the butter to melt slowly without burning, ensuring you get that perfect golden color later on.

Step 3: Prepare Your Potatoes

Once the butter has melted, remove the pan from the oven. While it’s cooling slightly, cut your washed red potatoes in half and score each half lightly. Scoring helps them absorb all those wonderful flavors!

Step 4: Mix Your Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese with 2 tablespoons of herb seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give our potatoes that flavorful coating they need.

Step 5: Assemble in Pan

Sprinkle your seasoned mixture onto the bottom of your pan with melted butter. Then place each potato half cut side down right on top of that delicious seasoning blend. This ensures they get all that tasty goodness while baking.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

Give those potato tops a light spray with nonstick cooking spray and sprinkle them with the remaining tablespoon of herb seasoning. This will help achieve that fantastic crispiness we’re after!

Step 7: Bake Away!

Finally, bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until they’re tender. The aroma wafting through your home will be irresistible!

And there you have it! Perfectly baked Parmesan Roasted Potatoes that are sure to become a go-to side dish in your kitchen!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Creating the perfect Parmesan roasted potatoes is a breeze with just a few handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your potatoes. Consider adding rosemary or thyme for a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the cheese and butter.

• Don’t skip scoring: Scoring the potatoes not only helps them cook evenly but also allows more of that delicious seasoning to penetrate, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

• Adjust cooking time based on size: If your potatoes are larger than average, you might need to increase the cooking time slightly. Always check for tenderness with a fork to achieve that creamy center.

• Experiment with cheese: While Parmesan is delightful, mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar can create a unique twist. Just remember to stay within your dietary preferences!

How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

These Parmesan roasted potatoes make for a fantastic side dish that can complement nearly any meal. Here’s how you can present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing.
• Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest provides a zesty contrast that brightens up the rich flavors of the potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini not only add nutrition but also provide a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a refreshing crunch that pairs nicely with the creamy potatoes.
• Roasted chicken: Juicy roasted chicken is a classic pairing, providing protein that balances out the richness of the potatoes while being easy to prepare in large batches.
• Steamed broccoli: This simple vegetable side brings vibrant color to your plate and its mild flavor complements the savory notes of the roasted potatoes perfectly.

Enjoy serving these delicious Parmesan roasted potatoes at your next gathering or family dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan roasted potato recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy the 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 days.

Freezing

• Let the potatoes cool down thoroughly.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• 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.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Parmesan roasted potatoes that might help you!

Can I use other types of cheese in Parmesan roasted potatoes?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with grated cheese like Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.

How can I make Parmesan roasted potatoes spicier?

To add some heat, consider sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes over the potatoes before baking. This will give your Parmesan roasted potatoes an exciting kick!

What’s the best way to store leftover Parmesan roasted potatoes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I prepare Parmesan roasted potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead by cutting and seasoning the potatoes, then storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these Parmesan roasted potatoes! They are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying with their creamy centers and crispy exteriors. Enjoy making this dish as a comforting side for any meal, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!