If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate side dish that’s effortless to make yet absolutely irresistible, look no further than Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes. These golden gems are everything you crave in a roasted potato: tender, fluffy insides and a flavorful, supremely crispy crust, all kicked up with a bold blend of herbs, smoky paprika, and plenty of real Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just indulging in a weeknight treat, this dish always guarantees empty plates and happy smiles!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes lies in a short list of pantry staples. Each ingredient brings its own special flair—think crunch, color, or that irresistible savory boost—and together they transform humble potatoes into pure bliss.
- Baby potatoes (2 pounds, halved): These little spuds roast up beautifully tender inside, and their size means more crispy surface area.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds rich flavor and ensures every bite gets gold and crisp in the oven.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Essential for that signature cheesy crunch—use real Parmigiano-Reggiano if you can.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers a mellow, rounded garlicky punch in every bite.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds umami and a hint of sweetness you’ll definitely notice.
- Dried Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): This herb blend layers in extra depth and classic Mediterranean aroma.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): The subtle smokiness takes ordinary potatoes to new heights.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Intensifies all those flavors while ensuring the potatoes are perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Freshly cracked makes a big difference here for a lively finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end adds fresh color and a pop of herbal brightness.
How to Make Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Sheet Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a steamy 425°F. Line a spacious baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even crisping. Getting your oven nice and hot (and using a lined sheet) is the secret to those irresistible edges in every batch of Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes.
Step 2: Toss the Potatoes With Flavor
In a large mixing bowl, combine your halved baby potatoes with olive oil, the freshly grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat every piece; you want those seasonings and cheese to hug every surface for that signature crispy, cheesy bite.
Step 3: Arrange for Maximum Crispiness
Carefully lay out your potatoes cut-side down in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd—space is key for browning and crunch! Laying them flat ensures the Parmesan crust forms right where you want it.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Slide your tray into the oven and let those potatoes roast for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for deeply golden bottoms and tender insides—the oven will work its magic, crisping the cheese and caramelizing every edge.
Step 5: Rest, Garnish, and Serve
Once roasted, let your Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes sit on the hot pan for 5 more minutes. This short rest amps up the crunch factor! Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like, then serve them up piping hot for the ultimate experience.
How to Serve Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes
Garnishes
The finishing touch can make these potatoes shine even brighter. A scattering of chopped fresh parsley brings color and freshness. Try a dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving, or even a whisper of lemon zest for a lively hint. If you’re feeling adventurous, a quick drizzle of truffle oil will wow any guest.
Side Dishes
Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes are fabulously versatile. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables. They make a knock-out addition to brunch spreads next to eggs or smoked salmon. For game day, serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like aioli, creamy ranch, or spicy ketchup cones—the possibilities are endless!
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your platter into a showstopper by piling the potatoes high on a rustic wooden board or arrange them in a cast-iron skillet for extra table appeal. For parties, skewer individual potatoes with toothpicks and offer as appetizers. Or, transform them into loaded bites with dollops of sour cream, chives, and bacon bits on top—your guests will talk about them for weeks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got a few Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes left over (rare, but possible)? Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to three days and make a great snack or quick lunch addition.
Freezing
While you can freeze roasted potatoes, keep in mind they’ll lose some crispiness after thawing. If you do freeze them, spread the potatoes out on a sheet pan first so they don’t stick together, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month and are best reheated in the oven to get some crunch back.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your leftovers in a hot oven (about 400°F) for 10-15 minutes, flipping once. This helps revive that signature cheesy crust far better than the microwave. A quick pass under the broiler also works wonders for extra crunch if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Definitely! Just cut them into uniform 1½-inch chunks so the baking time and crispiness are about the same as the original recipe. This way, you’ll still get the magic of Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes, no matter which potatoes you have.
Is fresh Parmesan better, or can I use pre-grated?
Freshly grated Parmesan always delivers the best flavor and crisp, crunchy texture, but pre-grated (not the powder) can work in a pinch. Just avoid the ultra-fine grated cheese in a can, as it might not melt and crisp as beautifully on your potatoes.
Can I prep the potatoes in advance?
You can absolutely toss the cut potatoes with oil and dry seasonings ahead of time, but wait to add Parmesan cheese until just before baking. This way, everything stays as fresh and crisp as possible.
How do I prevent soggy potatoes?
The biggest keys to achieving crispy results are a super hot oven, not crowding your pan, and making sure the cut sides of the potatoes are in direct contact with the parchment. Letting them rest on the hot pan after baking also maximizes crunch!
Are Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an awesome side option for gluten-sensitive eaters and anyone who loves cheesy, golden potatoes.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to try making a batch of Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes—they’re outrageously tasty, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you sink your fork into that golden, cheesy crust and creamy center, I guarantee you’ll keep coming back, no matter the occasion!
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Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
These Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The tender insides and golden brown, crispy bottoms make for a satisfying contrast in textures, while the Parmesan cheese and seasonings add a flavorful punch to each bite.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (halved)
Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange: Arrange the potatoes cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast: Roast for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven, let sit for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispy results, avoid overcrowding the pan and place potatoes cut-side down.
- These potatoes pair well with roasted meats, burgers, or as a snack with dipping sauce like garlic aioli.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
