Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always delicious. The combination of roasted potatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering side dish that pairs perfectly with almost anything. Whether you’re serving them with a steak, chicken, or even just a salad, these potatoes will steal the show.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (or Yukon Gold potatoes), halved or quartered
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more for garlic lovers)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of rosemary, thyme, and oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (freshly grated is best)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat (optional for easy cleanup)
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon or spatula for tossing
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help the potatoes become crispy and golden on the outside while remaining tender inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and cut the potatoes: If you’re using baby potatoes, simply cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. For Yukon Gold potatoes, peel them if you prefer (though the skin adds a nice texture), and then cut them into small chunks.
- Place in a mixing bowl: Add the cut potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Toss with Garlic and Seasonings
- Add olive oil: Pour olive oil over the potatoes and toss them to coat evenly.
- Season: Add the minced garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again to make sure all the potatoes are coated with the flavorful seasoning.
Step 4: Roast the Potatoes
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup, if desired.
- Spread the potatoes: Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they are spread out to allow them to crisp up nicely.
- Roast: Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Flip the potatoes halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Final Touches
- Sprinkle with Parmesan: After the potatoes are roasted to crispy perfection, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with the grated Parmesan cheese. The warmth from the potatoes will melt the cheese slightly, giving it that perfect cheesy coating.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a fresh, herby flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Garlic Parmesan Potatoes hot, either on their own or as a side dish with your favorite meal. These potatoes are great with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or even a fresh salad.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
- Cut the potatoes evenly: For even cooking, try to cut your potatoes into roughly the same size pieces. This ensures that they cook uniformly and all achieve that crispy texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a richer flavor compared to pre-grated cheese. It will make a big difference in the final result.
- Add more garlic for a stronger flavor: If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic to the potatoes before roasting. You can also sauté the garlic in a little oil for 1-2 minutes before tossing it with the potatoes to bring out its flavor.
- Make them extra crispy: If you prefer an extra crispy exterior, try broiling the potatoes for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Just be sure to watch them closely so they don’t burn!
Variations and Substitutions
- Add Lemon: For a citrusy twist, sprinkle some lemon zest over the potatoes right before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top would also add a refreshing brightness.
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix before roasting.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan alternative, swap out the Parmesan cheese for vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Herb Variation: You can experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs are also great if you have them on hand!
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: These potatoes make a great side dish to almost anything. Serve them with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a hearty Sunday roast.
- Brunch: Serve them with a side of eggs or avocado toast for a delicious brunch.
- Dipping Sauce: Try serving these with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch dressing or sour cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Closing Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are the ultimate side dish—crispy, savory, and full of flavor. With a perfect balance of garlic, Parmesan, and crispy roasted potatoes, this dish is easy to make and sure to impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a special occasion, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Try making these Garlic Parmesan Potatoes for your next meal and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear about your variations and any creative twists you added to the recipe.