If you are craving a side dish that oozes comfort and crunch, this Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Golden, crispy on the outside, and tender inside, these potatoes are coated with a savory blend of Parmesan cheese and herbs that bring so much flavor and texture in every bite. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to pull off, making it a fantastic go-to for weeknights or when you want to impress without fuss. Once you try this Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever made potatoes any other way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe lies in its incredibly straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance of creamy, crispy, and aromatic flavors that turn simple potatoes into a crowd-pleaser.
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet): These varieties give you that ideal fluffy texture and great roastability.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that crisps beautifully in the oven.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Supplies an extra crunchy coating that perfectly complements the potatoes.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the coating stick and enhances browning with a lovely richness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory undertone that makes each bite deeply satisfying.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Offers an earthy herbal note that balances the cheese and adds depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, green pop of color and a subtle brightness upon serving.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Potatoes
Start by heating your oven to a high 425°F (220°C) which is the perfect temperature for getting those potatoes crispy. While that’s warming up, wash and optionally peel your potatoes before slicing them into wedges or thick slices. The shape you choose ensures that you get that perfect contrast of crunchy outside with a soft center.
Step 2: Mix the Parmesan Coating
In a medium bowl, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This mixture is packed with flavor and key to achieving the irresistible crust that makes this Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe so special.
Step 3: Coat the Potatoes
Toss your potato wedges in olive oil to evenly coat each piece. This step allows the crust to stick better and helps in that beautiful golden browning while baking. Then, press every potato wedge firmly into the Parmesan mixture so each piece is covered with an even layer that will crisp up wonderfully in the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have space to crisp up without steaming. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through baking, so every side gets that gorgeous golden crust and crispy texture. The result? Potatoes that look and taste like they came from a restaurant!
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your potatoes with freshly chopped parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh herbaceous note that keeps every bite bright. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can upgrade the flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats like steak or chicken and balances well with crisp green salads. For a full meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw to add some contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these potatoes as a loaded side with toppings like sour cream, chives, or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. You can also turn them into a shareable appetizer by arranging them on a platter with a couple of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli or spicy ketchup. The crunch and cheesy coating always make them a hit at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The coating might soften a bit, but the flavor remains just as delicious.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for preserving the crust’s crispiness. If you do freeze, lay the coated raw potato wedges out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. This helps prevent clumping. Cook from frozen in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To bring back their golden crunch, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that signature crisp crust intact, as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes in this Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe?
Yes! Sweet potatoes offer a wonderful sweetness that pairs delightfully with the savory Parmesan crust. Just be mindful that sweet potatoes may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on them while baking.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients, plus a rustic feel to the dish. Just ensure you wash them thoroughly before preparing.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can adapt this recipe by using vegan Parmesan-style cheese and a plant-based breadcrumb. Olive oil is already vegan, so this swap will help maintain the same crispy, flavorful crust.
What’s the best way to get the potatoes extra crispy?
High oven temperature and flipping halfway through baking are key. Also, using panko breadcrumbs helps deliver that satisfying crunch over traditional breadcrumbs.
Is garlic powder necessary, or can I use fresh garlic?
Garlic powder blends evenly into the coating and provides a consistent flavor without burning. If you prefer fresh garlic, finely mince it and toss with the olive oil before coating, but be careful to avoid overcooking or burning it.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and celebratory about the crunchy, cheesy perfection of this Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, a casual get-together, or just treating yourself, these potatoes bring warmth and flavor that never disappoints. Give them a try, and get ready for your new favorite side dish to steal the show every time.
Print
Parmesan Crusted Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and golden Parmesan Crusted Potatoes baked to perfection with a flavorful mix of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and crunchy breadcrumbs. This easy-to-make side dish features tender potato wedges coated in olive oil and a savory crust, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
Coating Mix
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a hot environment for crispy potato wedges.
- Prepare Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes if desired, then cut into wedges or thick slices for even cooking.
- Mix Coating: In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful crust mixture.
- Coat Potatoes with Oil: Toss the potato wedges in olive oil until each piece is well coated, which helps the crust stick and promotes browning.
- Apply Parmesan Mixture: Press each potato wedge firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even and ample coating on all sides.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow hot air circulation and even crisping.
- Bake Potatoes: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through cooking for even golden-brown color and crispiness.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor, then serve hot.
Notes
- Using Yukon Gold potatoes results in a creamier texture, while Russet potatoes provide a fluffier interior.
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs as they create a lighter, crunchier coating.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure the potatoes crisp properly.
- You can add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the coating mix for a spicy twist.
- These potatoes are best served fresh and hot right out of the oven.
