If you are searching for a delightfully flavorful side dish that is both crunchy and savory, then the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. These golden baby potatoes, slathered in melted butter and garlic, then perfectly pressed into a crust of salty Parmesan cheese, bake up with an irresistible crispiness that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The blend of Italian seasoning and paprika adds just the right touch of warmth and depth, creating an unforgettable bite that’s equally comforting and gourmet. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe transforms simple potatoes into a celebration of textures and rich flavors you will want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its outstanding flavor but also in how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each component enhances the potatoes uniquely — from the crispiness imparted by Parmesan cheese to the rich, aromatic notes of garlic and butter, finishing with Italian seasoning that offers a hint of earthiness and spice.
- Baby potatoes (1 ½ pounds): Choose firm, evenly sized potatoes for consistent cooking and a delightful bite.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle fruity aroma while helping crisp the potatoes.
- Unsalted butter, melted (3 tablespoons): Brings a luxurious richness and carries the garlic flavor beautifully.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Infuse the dish with that signature savory punch you crave in roasted potatoes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): This is the crust’s hero, providing a salty, nutty exterior that locks in moisture.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant mix of herbs that adds brightness and complexity.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Gives a mild smokiness and a gorgeous hint of color.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Offers a gentle heat to round out the seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, for garnish): Adds freshness and a vibrant green pop to the final dish.
How to Make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, while ensuring your Parmesan crust bakes to a perfect golden crisp without burning.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This fragrant butter blend infuses every potato half with layers of flavor and helps the cheese adhere for the essential crispy crust that defines this dish.
Step 3: Create the Parmesan Base
Spread the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. This layer serves as both a cooking surface and a delicious crust that will develop an irresistible crunch underneath each potato.
Step 4: Coat and Press the Potatoes
Dip each halved baby potato cut side down into the buttery garlic mixture, then press it firmly onto the Parmesan layer on the baking sheet. This pressing is crucial as it forms the signature cheesy crust that gives the dish its name and remarkable texture.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake to Perfection
Arrange the potatoes cut side down across the baking sheet so they are not crowded. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown with irresistible crisp edges. The combination of the butter mixture and cheese bakes into a crust that’s crunchy on the outside yet tender and fluffy inside.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before gently lifting them with a spatula. This resting time helps the crust set fully and keeps the potatoes intact. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a touch of color and fresh flavor that brightens the rich, savory bites.
How to Serve Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic and simple garnish that adds a fresh burst of color and herbaceous brightness to these rich potatoes. You can also scatter some extra grated Parmesan or a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil for added shine and depth of flavor.
Side Dishes
This crispy garlic Parmesan crusted potatoes recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It also complements rich, creamy dishes like steak with mushroom sauce or seared salmon, providing a textural contrast that will elevate your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these potatoes family-style on a rustic wooden platter sprinkled with parsley for an inviting feel, or plate individually with a dollop of sour cream or garlic aioli for a touch of indulgence. You can even sprinkle a little smoked paprika on top just before serving for a pop of smoky color and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover crispy garlic Parmesan crusted potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them in a single layer for the best texture, as stacking can cause the crust to lose its signature crispness.
Freezing
While freezing might slightly soften the crispy crust, you can freeze cooked potatoes by spreading them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until firm, then transferring to a sealed freezer bag. Use within 1 month for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to revive the crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the Parmesan crust crunchy, as the microwave tends to make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can use larger potatoes cut into smaller pieces, but baby potatoes work best because their size helps them cook evenly and maintain a tender interior with a crispy crust.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano cheeses are excellent substitutes; however, Parmesan is preferred for its meltability and flavor profile that crisps beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can dip and press the potatoes onto the Parmesan layer and refrigerate them covered for up to a few hours before baking, but bake them fresh to ensure maximum crispiness.
How can I make the garlic flavor more subtle?
Reducing the amount of minced garlic or lightly sautéing the garlic in butter before mixing will mellow the sharpness while still providing a wonderful aroma.
Final Thoughts
If you have been longing for a recipe that turns everyday baby potatoes into a crunchy, cheesy masterpiece, you absolutely must try this Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, bursting with rich flavors, and perfect for any meal. Once you get that first crispy, garlicky bite, these potatoes will become a fast favorite in your home too. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to delight your taste buds with this irresistible dish!
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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are a perfect savory side dish, featuring tender baby potatoes coated in a flavorful blend of butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning, then baked to golden perfection on a crispy Parmesan cheese crust. Garnished with fresh parsley, they are irresistibly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
Seasoning and Coating
- 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
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to create a flavorful coating for the potatoes.
- Create Parmesan Layer: Spread the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the prepared baking sheet to form the crispy crust base for the potatoes.
- Coat Potatoes: Dip each halved potato, cut side down, into the butter mixture ensuring it is fully coated, then press the coated side firmly onto the Parmesan layer on the baking sheet.
- Arrange Potatoes: Lay the potatoes cut side down on the Parmesan layer, spacing them evenly to allow for proper crisping while baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and tender inside.
- Cool and Lift: Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes after baking, then carefully lift them off the pan using a spatula to keep the Parmesan crust intact.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the crispy potatoes for a fresh color and flavor boost, then serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra crispy crust, make sure the Parmesan is spread thin and even.
- Using baby potatoes ensures quicker and more even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and paprika.
- Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor but garlic powder can be used if preferred.
- Serve immediately for best crispness; leftovers can be reheated in the oven to retain crisp texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
