Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes Recipe

If you love potatoes with a golden, crunchy exterior and a flavorful, cheesy crust, you’ll be head over heels for these Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes. Imagine tiny, tender baby potatoes baked to perfection, each bite bursting with a crispy Parmesan cheese coating that’s infused with garlic, herbs, and just the right amount of spice. These potatoes are the ultimate comfort food upgrade, incredibly simple to make yet impressively delicious, perfect for weeknight dinners or as a star side at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these straightforward ingredients that work together to create a beautiful medley of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a key role in turning humble baby potatoes into a crispy, cheesy delight that’s hard to resist.

• Baby potatoes (1.5 pounds): Choose golden or red for the perfect size and creamy texture that crisps nicely.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Helps the potatoes brown evenly and adds a lovely richness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): The star of the dish that forms the irresistible crispy crust.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds savory depth without overpowering the potatoes.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle earthiness and herbaceous note.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a hint of warmth and beautiful color to the crust.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A pop of green that brightens the dish visually and in flavor.

How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key for getting that fantastic crisp on the outside while keeping the insides tender and flavorful. Don’t skip this step because a properly heated oven sets the stage for perfectly crispy potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Give your baby potatoes a thorough wash and dry them well to ensure the olive oil and seasonings stick beautifully. Slice each potato in half lengthwise to expose flat surfaces that will crisp up wonderfully in the oven.

Step 3: Season and Coat the Potatoes

Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes and toss them in a large bowl to coat evenly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this cheese and spice mixture generously over the oiled potatoes, then toss everything together until every potato half is luxuriously coated.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy

Arrange the potatoes cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re spread out in a single layer for the best crisping effect. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through so both sides get that gorgeous golden brown crunch. The aroma as they roast will clue you in that something wonderful is happening.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Let the Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes cool just a bit before transferring to your serving dish. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds brightness and color but also a subtle herby contrast that completes the dish perfectly. Serve these gems warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like chives or thyme for a fresh pop of flavor. A light squeeze of lemon juice over the top can also add a lovely, zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the Parmesan crust.

Side Dishes

These potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of mains—think herb-crusted lamb, roasted chicken, or grilled vegetables. They also brighten up a hearty garden salad or stand alone as a crunchy snack that’s impossible to stop eating.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes on a rustic wooden board with a trio of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, and tangy mustard. Or, toss them into a warm grain bowl with greens and a drizzle of vinaigrette for a cozy, satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They maintain their flavor well, although they might lose a bit of their original crispness.

Freezing

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. For best results, reheat them straight from frozen to preserve their crispy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will warm them through and help bring back much of that signature crispiness we all crave from Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes! Just make sure to cut them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly and get crispy all over, just like the baby potatoes.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano offer similar savory flavors. For a crunchy twist without cheese, crushed tortilla chips can be a fun alternative.

How can I make these potatoes spicier?

Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix for an exciting, spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.

Can I cook these potatoes in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to ensure even cooking and crispy results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, these Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes are naturally gluten-free since they contain no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes are a truly delightful way to show off simple ingredients with maximum flavor and crunch. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a potluck, or just because you crave something delicious, they’ll quickly become your go-to side dish. Give them a try—you won’t believe how addictive and satisfying every bite is!

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