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These crispy garlic Parmesan crusted potatoes bring golden crunch and rich flavor to your table. Perfect as a side for dinners or a tempting snack, they combine tender potatoes with a savory coating of garlic and cheese that’s simply irresistible. The best part is how easy they are to make, fitting right into busy weeknight routines or festive gatherings without stress.
My family fell in love with these after I made them for a casual dinner party. Now they ask for these potatoes almost every week because of the bold flavor and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
- Two pounds baby potatoes: golden or red, for the best texture and sweetness
- Three tablespoons olive oil: which helps create that crispy crust and carries the flavors
- Five cloves garlic: minced, or roasted garlic for a gentler, sweeter touch
- Half a cup grated Parmesan cheese: to add sharp, savory richness
- One teaspoon garlic powder: adds an extra layer of garlic flavor
- One teaspoon paprika: for color and a subtle smoky note
- Salt and black pepper: to taste, essential for balancing all the flavors
- Fresh parsley: chopped for a fresh burst of color and herbal brightness when serving
- Tip: When choosing potatoes, pick firm ones with smooth skin and no sprouts for the best results. Fresh Parmesan cheese melts beautifully and tastes the best.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius. Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and dry them completely. Slice each potato in half to ensure even cooking and maximum surface area for the crust.
- Make the Garlic Oil Mix:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well so all the spices are evenly distributed. This step builds a flavorful base that coats every potato piece beautifully.
- Coat the Potatoes:
- Add the halved potatoes to the bowl and toss thoroughly in the garlic oil mixture. Make sure every piece is well coated. Then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes and toss again gently. The cheese will stick to the surface, creating that signature crispy crust.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the coated potatoes out in a single layer, ensuring none are overcrowded to maximize crispiness. Roast the potatoes in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once roasted, let the potatoes cool for 2 to 3 minutes so the crust firms up a bit. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a splash of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and crispy to enjoy their full flavor and texture.
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Parmesan is my favorite ingredient here. Its salty sharpness and ability to crisp up so nicely makes all the difference. One of my most memorable meals was a holiday gathering where these potatoes stole the show and got everyone asking for seconds.
Storage Tips
Leftover potatoes keep their crunch best if stored in an airtight container in the fridge and reheated in the oven rather than the microwave. This reheating method brings back that fresh crispiness without making them soggy. Freeze the uncooked potatoes after coating them with the oil and cheese mixture to keep the convenience factor high. Just thaw completely before baking as usual.
Ingredient Substitutions
If Parmesan is not available, Asiago, Pecorino, or Romano cheeses provide a tasty twist with their own flavors and melting qualities. For garlic powder, onion powder or shallot powder can add a slightly different but delicious note. Use sweet potatoes if you prefer a sweeter variation, but baking times may need slight adjustment.
Serving Suggestions
These potatoes make an ideal partner to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty salad. Offer alongside a selection of dips like garlic aioli, chipotle ranch, or simple sour cream with chives for guests to customize. They also work wonderfully as a standalone snack when you want something crispy and flavorful.
Cultural Context
Potatoes have long been a comfort food worldwide, and this garlicky cheesy version is rooted in the tradition of making the humble spud into something special. Parmesan cheese, a staple in Italian cooking, adds an Italian inspired twist to this classic American side dish.
Pro Tips
Coat the potatoes thoroughly with the garlic oil mixture for even flavor and crust formation. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to avoid steaming and ensure maximum crispiness. Let the potatoes cool slightly after baking before serving so the cheese crust can firm up beautifully.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Baby potatoes, either golden or red, are ideal because they cook evenly and develop a crisp exterior while staying tender inside.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, Asiago, Pecorino, or Romano cheeses can be substituted to add unique flavors while maintaining a cheesy crust.
- → How can I ensure the potatoes are crispy?
Roasting at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) and spreading the potatoes in a single layer on parchment helps achieve a crispy finish.
- → Is it possible to prep ahead?
You can freeze the coated uncooked potatoes and roast them later after thawing, which saves time on busy days.
- → What are good dipping options?
Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a zesty aioli complement the flavors beautifully, adding an extra layer of taste.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days, and reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.