If you’re seeking a delightful side dish that combines the comforting heartiness of potatoes with the rich, savory flavor of Parmesan cheese, look no further than crispy Parmesan potatoes. This recipe transforms simple baby potatoes into a golden, crunchy treat that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds (24 ounces) yellow baby/new potatoes, cleaned and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley, plus more for serving (optional)
- 2 ounces (nearly 3/4 cup) finely grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the middle. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Olive Oil Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and chopped parsley. Mix well.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Halve each baby potato and add them to the olive oil mixture as you go to prevent browning. Toss the potatoes thoroughly to ensure they’re evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan over the potatoes and gently toss again, ensuring each piece is well-coated without causing the cheese to clump or fall off.
- Arrange for Roasting:
- Place the potato halves cut side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Pour any remaining Parmesan mixture from the bowl over the potatoes. It’s fine if the potatoes are close together.
- Roast:
- Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese forms a deep golden crust and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the potatoes rest for a few minutes. Transfer them to a serving dish, garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Ways for Success:
- Cheese Texture: For the best results, use Parmesan that’s been grated into a very fine, pebbly texture. This ensures it adheres well to the potatoes and creates a crisp crust.
- Potato Size: Choose baby potatoes that are 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. If your potatoes are larger, consider quartering them to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid Clumping: When tossing the potatoes with Parmesan, do so gently to prevent the cheese from clumping or falling off.