Description of this recipe: These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes transform humble baby potatoes into an irresistible side dish. Each potato half boasts a perfectly golden, crispy crust infused with the savory flavors of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. The interior remains soft and fluffy, creating a delightful textural contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and yields restaurant-quality results, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Unmatched Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning creates a symphony of savory flavors that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- Perfectly Crispy Texture: The Parmesan crust provides an unparalleled crispy texture that elevates the potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness. No more boring, soggy potatoes!
- Simple and Quick: This recipe requires minimal effort and utilizes readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes pair well with a wide variety of main courses, from roasted chicken and grilled steak to pan-seared fish and vegetarian entrees.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving picky eaters or discerning foodies, these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes cook evenly and the Parmesan crust becomes perfectly golden brown. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment paper prevents the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This creates a flavorful base that will infuse the potatoes with a rich, savory taste. Ensure the garlic is finely minced to distribute its flavor evenly.
Step 3: Spread the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the lined baking sheet. This forms the crispy crust that is the hallmark of this recipe. Use a good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Step 4: Dip each potato half (cut side down) into the butter mixture, then press firmly onto the Parmesan layer. This ensures that each potato is coated in the flavorful butter mixture and adheres well to the Parmesan cheese. Pressing firmly helps the cheese to stick to the potato and creates a more substantial crust.
Step 5: Arrange the potatoes cut side down on the baking sheet. This allows the Parmesan crust to bake directly on the pan, maximizing its crispiness. Ensure the potatoes are evenly spaced to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.
Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. The baking time may vary depending on the size and type of potatoes used. Check the potatoes periodically and adjust the baking time as needed.
Step 7: Allow potatoes to cool for a few minutes before carefully lifting them off the pan using a spatula. This prevents the potatoes from breaking apart and allows the Parmesan crust to set slightly.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared fish.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a light and healthy meal.
- Add to a charcuterie board for a flavorful and unexpected addition.
- Serve as an appetizer for parties and gatherings.
- Enjoy as a snack on their own.
Tips:
- For extra crispy potatoes, use a metal baking sheet instead of a glass one.
- If you don’t have baby potatoes, you can use larger potatoes cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of Parmesan cheese and Romano cheese.
- If the Parmesan crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the baking sheet with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- These potatoes are best served immediately, but they can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Sodium: 400 mg
Conclusion:
These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are a simple yet sophisticated side dish that is sure to impress. With their crispy, flavorful crust and soft, fluffy interior, they are a delightful treat for the senses. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the best potatoes you’ve ever tasted! The ease of preparation, coupled with the incredible flavor and texture, makes this recipe a true standout. From weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, these potatoes will always be a welcome addition to the table. Don’t be surprised if they become a new family favorite! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spices to create your own unique flavor variations. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or substitute the Parmesan with Asiago for a bolder flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use different types of potatoes?
A: Absolutely! While baby potatoes work best for their size and texture, you can certainly use other types of potatoes. Russet potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes, or even red potatoes can be used. Just be sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. The cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the size and type of potatoes used.
Q2: Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
A: While these potatoes are best served immediately for optimal crispiness, you can prep some of the components ahead of time. You can wash and halve the potatoes, and mix the butter and spice mixture in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. However, I don’t recommend assembling the potatoes with the Parmesan crust too far in advance, as the cheese may become soggy.
Q3: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
A: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can easily create your own blend by combining dried oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Use equal parts of each herb to create a flavorful substitute. You can also adjust the amounts to your liking.
Q4: Can I make these potatoes vegan?
A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by making a few simple substitutions. Replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan Parmesan alternative. There are many delicious vegan Parmesan cheeses available on the market, or you can make your own using nutritional yeast, nuts, and seeds.
Q5: How do I store leftover potatoes?
A: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.
