Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and easy to make, let me introduce you to my cherished recipe for Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. These little gems are oven-baked to perfection, giving you that delightful mix of a creamy center and a crispy exterior. Trust me, once you smell the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll be hooked!

What makes this dish especially special is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these Parmesan roasted potatoes fit right in. They’re not just delicious; they also bring everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike adore the buttery and cheesy taste—perfect for any meal!
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepping these potatoes in advance? Absolutely! Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of Parmesan and herbs creates an irresistible flavor that feels like a warm hug on your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. With just a handful of basics, you’ll have everything needed to create these scrumptious 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 customize it to fit your taste!

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
• Try Different Cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano for a unique twist.
• Herb Swaps: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dried seasoning for an aromatic boost.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or paprika if you enjoy a bit of heat!

How to Make Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Start by adding 1 stick of butter to a 9×13 baking pan. This step is crucial because as the butter melts, it will create a rich base that adds flavor to our potatoes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Place the baking pan into a cool oven. Then, turn your oven to 400°F (200°C). The butter will melt slowly as the oven heats up, ensuring it evenly coats the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Cut and Score the Potatoes

While waiting for your butter to melt, cut each washed red potato in half and score them lightly with a knife. Scoring helps those delicious seasonings seep into each potato, making every bite flavorful.

Step 4: Mix Your Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine your grated Parmesan cheese with 2 tablespoons of the herb seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients together allows their flavors to meld beautifully before we sprinkle them on our potatoes.

Step 5: Assemble Everything in the Pan

Once your butter has melted, remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle that tasty seasoning mixture onto the bottom of the pan with melted butter. Then place each potato half cut side down directly on top of this flavorful bed.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

Give those potatoes a light spray with nonstick cooking spray and sprinkle with any remaining herb seasoning. This ensures they get that beautiful golden color while baking!

Step 7: Bake Until Tender

Now, it’s time for some magic! Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes or until your potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. You’ll know they’re done when they are perfectly crispy on top!

And there you have it—deliciously satisfying Parmesan roasted potatoes ready to serve! Enjoy sharing them with loved ones or savoring them solo; either way, they are sure to brighten up any meal.

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Cooking should be a fun and stress-free experience, so here are some tips to ensure your Parmesan roasted potatoes turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile of your potatoes. Instead of dried, try using fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.

• Choose uniform potato sizes: Cutting your potatoes into similar sizes ensures even cooking. This way, you won’t end up with some crispy while others stay undercooked.

• Don’t rush the butter melting: Allowing the butter to melt slowly while the oven preheats helps it coat the potatoes evenly, resulting in a beautifully crispy texture.

• Experiment with cheese: While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a different flavor profile.

• Let them rest before serving: After baking, let your potatoes sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps them firm up slightly and enhances their flavor.

How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

When it comes to presenting your Parmesan roasted potatoes, think about how they can complement your meal and be a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color and freshness to the dish.
• Grated lemon zest: A dash of lemon zest can brighten the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic create a crisp, vibrant side that balances out the creamy potatoes.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized pair beautifully with Parmesan roasted potatoes.
• Simple Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the potatoes.
• Creamy Coleslaw: The cool creaminess of coleslaw complements the warm, crispy potatoes wonderfully, making it a great accompaniment for any meal.

These suggestions not only enhance your meal but also make your dining experience more enjoyable. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan Roasted Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, and they stay delicious in the fridge or freezer. Here’s how to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled potatoes in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep them fresh longer, consider wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Freezing

• Allow potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen potatoes to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for quick reheating but expect a softer texture.
• If desired, add a little extra butter or olive oil before reheating to enhance the flavor.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Parmesan Roasted Potatoes.

Can I use other types of cheese for Parmesan Roasted Potatoes?

Yes! While Parmesan cheese gives these roasted potatoes a unique flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

How do I make my Parmesan Roasted Potatoes extra crispy?

For extra crispy potatoes, ensure they are well coated with butter and cooking spray. Scoring the potato’s surface helps too! Baking them cut-side down also promotes crispiness.

Can I prepare Parmesan Roasted Potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! You can make these delicious potatoes ahead of time. Follow the storage instructions above for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these delightful Parmesan Roasted Potatoes! They offer a comforting blend of creamy and crispy textures that are sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy making this recipe as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try! Happy cooking!