Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. This recipe transforms simple baby potatoes into a mouthwatering delight with the perfect balance of garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or a special Sunday feast, these potatoes will quickly become a favorite on your table.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something incredibly satisfying about roasting potatoes until they develop that golden, crispy crust while staying fluffy and soft inside. The addition of garlic and Parmesan cheese elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary, offering rich flavors that complement a wide range of meals. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that uses minimal ingredients and requires little hands-on time, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

One of the best things about Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes is their versatility. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a fresh green salad. If you love potatoes, you might also enjoy trying other comforting recipes like Smothered Potatoes, which bring a different yet equally delicious flavor profile to the table.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making these potatoes irresistible. The olive oil ensures they roast up crisp and golden, while fresh garlic infuses them with aromatic flavor. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty touch, and fresh parsley provides a pop of color and freshness.

How To Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the potatoes to a crispy perfection without drying them out.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and cut them in half to ensure they cook evenly and develop plenty of crispy edges. Halving the potatoes is key to getting that perfect crispy texture.

Step 3: Mix the Seasoning

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors. This mixture will coat the potatoes and infuse them with flavor during roasting.

Step 4: Toss the Potatoes

Add the halved potatoes to the bowl and toss them thoroughly in the olive oil and garlic mixture. Make sure every piece is well coated to maximize flavor and crispiness.

Step 5: Roast the Potatoes

Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow the heat to circulate properly, which helps the potatoes crisp up.

Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. Halfway through cooking, use a spatula to flip the potatoes so they brown evenly on all sides.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Parsley

Once the potatoes are tender and golden brown, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes and toss gently to combine. The heat will slightly melt the cheese, creating a delicious coating.

Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the potatoes for a burst of freshness and color.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes hot as a side dish to your favorite main courses. They’re perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: This can cause the potatoes to steam rather than roast, resulting in less crispiness.
• Not cutting potatoes evenly: Uneven sizes lead to uneven cooking; make sure the potatoes are halved uniformly.
• Adding Parmesan too early: Adding cheese before roasting can cause it to burn. Always add it after roasting.
• Skipping the toss halfway through roasting: Flipping the potatoes ensures even browning on all sides.
• Using too little oil: Insufficient oil can cause sticking and prevent the potatoes from crisping properly.

Dietary Options

• Vegan option: Substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
• Low sodium: Reduce or omit the salt and opt for a salt-free seasoning blend if preferred.
• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Keto-friendly: Potatoes are higher in carbs, so this recipe is not keto-friendly. For a low-carb alternative, try roasted cauliflower with garlic and Parmesan.

Seasonal Variations

• Spring: Add fresh chopped chives or dill for a light, bright twist.
• Summer: Mix in roasted cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh basil after roasting.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash cubes and a dash of smoked paprika for warmth.
• Winter: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick to warm you up.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat.

For make-ahead convenience, prepare the potatoes up to the tossing stage and refrigerate them overnight. When ready to cook, allow them to come to room temperature, then roast as directed.

FAQ

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While baby potatoes work best for their size and texture, you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes cut into similar-sized pieces. Just adjust cooking time as needed based on the size of the pieces.

How do I make sure my potatoes get crispy?

The key to crispy Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes is not overcrowding the pan, using enough olive oil, and roasting at a high temperature. Flipping the potatoes halfway through roasting also helps them brown evenly.

Can I prepare this recipe without Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can skip the Parmesan or substitute it with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative if you prefer. Keep in mind that Parmesan adds a distinctive nutty flavor and some saltiness.

Is it okay to use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic offers the best flavor and aroma, pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch. Just use slightly less since pre-minced garlic tends to be more potent.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a simple yet delicious way to elevate your side dish game. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a crispy, flavorful dish that complements almost any entrée. The combination of tender baby potatoes, aromatic garlic, savory Parmesan, and fresh parsley is a classic that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with seasonal variations to keep this dish exciting all year round!

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