Oven-roasted Parmesan potatoes are a delightful and versatile dish that can be served as a side for almost any meal. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, these potatoes are infused with the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese and herbs, making them a family favorite. This easy recipe will guide you through the steps to create perfectly roasted potatoes that are sure to impress your guests and elevate your meals.
Ingredients for Oven Roasted Parmesan Potatoes
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes (red or gold)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Oven Roasted Parmesan Potatoes
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting potatoes, allowing them to become crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can leave the skins on for added texture and flavor. Cut the potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size, to ensure even roasting.
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a uniform mixture.
- Add the cut potatoes to the bowl and toss them thoroughly until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. Ensuring each potato piece is well-coated will maximize the flavor and crispiness.
- Roast the Potatoes:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the roasting time, use a spatula to turn the potatoes to ensure even browning on all sides.
- Check for Doneness:
- After 25-30 minutes, check the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the center of a few pieces. They should be tender on the inside and golden brown on the outside. If they need more time, continue roasting in 5-minute increments until they reach the desired texture.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the potatoes are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle the roasted potatoes with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve the oven-roasted Parmesan potatoes hot, alongside your favorite main courses such as grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They also make a fantastic addition to a brunch spread or a holiday feast.
About the Main Ingredients
Baby Potatoes:
Baby potatoes, also known as new potatoes, are young potatoes harvested before they reach full maturity. They have a thin skin and a creamy texture, making them ideal for roasting. Red and gold varieties are particularly popular due to their slightly sweet flavor and vibrant color.
Parmesan Cheese:
Parmesan cheese adds a savory and nutty flavor to the potatoes, creating a deliciously crispy crust when roasted. Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the taste and ensures better melting and browning.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil is essential for roasting potatoes as it helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. It also adds a subtle, fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Garlic:
Garlic infuses the potatoes with a rich, aromatic flavor. Using fresh, minced garlic ensures that the flavor is robust and evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano):
Dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano are classic herbs that add depth and complexity to the roasted potatoes. These herbs are known for their earthy and slightly woody flavors, which pair perfectly with potatoes and Parmesan cheese.
Salt and Pepper:
Salt enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and Parmesan cheese, while black pepper adds a hint of spiciness. Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the best in any roasted vegetable dish.
Fresh Parsley:
Fresh parsley is an optional garnish that adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the finished dish. It also provides a mild, herbaceous flavor that complements the roasted potatoes.
Oven-roasted Parmesan potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. By following this recipe, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy and tender potatoes that are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delicious combination of Parmesan cheese, herbs, and garlic in every bite!
