Parmesan baked potatoes are a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful side dish that’s simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. These golden potatoes are coated with a buttery Parmesan crust, making them the perfect addition to any meal or a stand-alone snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and cheesy: A golden Parmesan crust transforms simple potatoes into a savory delight.
- Easy to make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation.
- Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with almost any main dish.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Small or medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or baby potatoes work best)
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Butter, melted
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan.
- Prepare the Parmesan mixture: In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the baking dish: Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the butter in an even layer.
- Prepare the potatoes: Cut the potatoes in half and place them cut-side down into the Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated on the cut side.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the Parmesan crust is golden and crispy.
- Cool and serve: Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before carefully lifting them from the pan with a spatula. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 4-6 as a side dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Herbaceous twist: Add dried Italian seasoning, thyme, or rosemary to the Parmesan mixture.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Cheese blend: Mix Parmesan with shredded cheddar or Asiago for extra cheesiness.
- Vegan option: Substitute butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
FAQs
1. Can I use larger potatoes?
Yes, large potatoes like Russets can be used. Cut them into quarters or thick slices for even cooking.
2. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, the potato skins add texture and flavor, but you can peel them if preferred.
3. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for better melting and flavor, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.
4. How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the butter is evenly spread, and use a nonstick or well-greased baking dish.
5. Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?
You can cut and coat the potatoes up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving.
6. What pairs well with Parmesan baked potatoes?
Serve them with roasted chicken, steak, grilled fish, or as part of a vegetarian spread with salad.
7. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Arrange the potatoes cut-side down in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
8. Can I freeze these potatoes?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may become mushy upon thawing.
9. How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto the potatoes and bake until deep golden brown.
10. Can I add garlic cloves?
Yes, scatter whole or minced garlic cloves around the potatoes for added flavor.
Conclusion
Parmesan baked potatoes are a simple yet delicious side dish that’s guaranteed to impress. With their crispy, cheesy crust and tender interior, they’re a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight side, these potatoes deliver unbeatable flavor and texture. Try them today and enjoy every savory bite!
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Parmesan Baked Potatoes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Parmesan Baked Potatoes feature tender, creamy interiors and crispy, cheesy exteriors. Coated with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese, they’re baked to golden perfection, making them an irresistible addition to any meal.
Ingredients
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 medium red potatoes, halved lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the melted butter into a 13×9-inch baking dish, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish.
- Arrange Potatoes: Place the potato halves cut side down over the butter and cheese mixture. Press them gently to ensure they make full contact with the cheese layer.
- Season: Lightly sprinkle the tops of the potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Bake: Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork and the cheese has formed a golden-brown crust.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let the potatoes rest for 5 minutes. Carefully use a spatula to lift the potatoes, keeping the Parmesan crust intact. Arrange them on a serving platter, crust side up. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture.- Ensure the potatoes are of uniform size to promote even cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain crispiness.