Description
These Crispy Italian Parmesan Potatoes are perfectly roasted baby potatoes tossed in a flavorful blend of olive oil, butter, garlic, Italian herbs, and topped with shredded Parmesan cheese. The result is a delightfully golden, crispy, and cheesy side dish that elevates any meal with a cozy Italian-inspired touch.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Cheese
- 2 lbs baby gold or red potatoes, halved
- ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (divided as ½ cup and ¼ cup)
Seasonings and Oils
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tsp fresh, finely chopped)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Seasoning Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dried or fresh rosemary, smoked paprika if using, salt, and black pepper to create a fragrant Italian-inspired dressing for the potatoes.
- Toss Potatoes: Add the halved baby potatoes to the bowl with the seasoning mixture, tossing thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese and stir gently so the cheese sticks to the coated potatoes, enhancing their flavor and helping with crisping.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the potatoes cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, which is essential for achieving a deeply golden and crispy bottom.
- Roast Potatoes: Roast in the preheated oven for 28 to 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the bottoms are crispy and golden brown.
- Add Remaining Parmesan: Remove the potatoes from the oven, immediately sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes, and allow them to rest for 3 minutes so the cheese melts slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add color and a fresh herbal note before serving.
Notes
- Extra Crispy Tip: Preheat the baking sheet in the oven for 5 minutes before adding the potatoes to help jump-start the browning and create an extra crispy crust.
- Fresh Herb Swap: For a brighter Italian flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or thyme over the potatoes after baking instead of rosemary.
- Cheese Variation: Add 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella along with the Parmesan in Step 6 for a more indulgent, gooey cheese experience.
- Pairing Ideas: These potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, steak, Italian sausage, or as a hearty side for a cozy pasta night.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore the crispness before serving again.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
