Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes With Parmesan Cheese – Healthy Easy Side Dish Recipe

Oh, you’ve got to try this baked potato recipe! Imagine cozying up with crispy, golden-brown potato wedges, perfectly seasoned with garlic and herbs. The aroma filling your kitchen is absolutely irresistible—it’s like a warm hug in food form! As the potatoes bake, they develop this incredible crunch on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside. It’s the kind of scent that makes your whole home smell inviting and delicious, just like a cozy night in should!

When those potatoes come out of the oven, they’re topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese that melts into a gooey, savory layer. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a cheesy explosion that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. The Parmesan adds just the right amount of richness, perfectly complementing the roasted garlic and herbs.

It’s the kind of side dish that makes any meal feel a little bit special. Whether you’re having a casual dinner at home or hosting a small gathering, these baked potatoes will definitely steal the show! They’re hearty, comforting, and just the right mix of flavors to make you look forward to every bite.

And if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself sneaking bites straight off the baking sheet while they’re still hot! It’s hard to resist that crispy, cheesy goodness, and before you know it, you’ll be coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Enjoy every delicious, warm bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Deliciously Crispy – The potatoes get perfectly crispy on the outside while staying soft and fluffy inside. It’s the kind of crunch you’ll crave with every bite!

• Cheesy Goodness – With melted Parmesan cheese on top, each bite is packed with savory, cheesy flavor. It makes these potatoes a real treat for cheese lovers!

• Aromatic and Inviting – The smell of garlic and herbs wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible. It creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes every meal feel special!

• Comforting and Hearty – These baked potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, offering a satisfying and hearty side that pairs well with almost any main dish. They make your meal feel complete and cozy.

• Flavorful Garlic and Herbs – The garlic and herbs add a burst of flavor that elevates the simple potato to something truly special. It’s a taste that’s both familiar and wonderfully delicious!

• Crowd-Pleaser – Whether you’re serving family or friends, these potatoes are sure to be a hit. They’re the kind of side dish that gets devoured quickly and leaves everyone asking for more!

• Perfectly Simple – With just a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up on busy days or for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s straightforward but delivers big on taste, making it a go-to favorite!

Ingredients You Need

• Potatoes – Choose large russet potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Make sure to wash and scrub them thoroughly to remove any dirt before cutting.

• Olive Oil – Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes to help them crisp up nicely. Toss the potatoes well to ensure they are evenly coated for consistent crispiness.

• Garlic – Minced garlic adds a robust flavor to the potatoes. Fresh garlic works best, you can also freely substitute for garlic powder.

• Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan cheese gives a rich, savory flavor. Sprinkle it on just before the end of baking to ensure it melts perfectly without burning.

• Dried Herbs – Optional herbs like rosemary or thyme enhance the flavor of the potatoes. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preference or omit them if you prefer a simpler flavor.

• Salt and Pepper – Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the overall taste. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before baking to get the perfect balance.

How To Make: Step-By-Step

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Potatoes:

• Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Cut the potatoes into wedges or cubes, depending on your preference.

Season the Potatoes:

• In a large bowl, toss the potato pieces with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated.
• Sprinkle in the dried rosemary and thyme if using.

Bake:

• Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. You might want to line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Add Parmesan:

• Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over them.
• Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Ideas

• Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This ensures the potatoes cook evenly and become crispy.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
• Flip for Even Crisping: Turn the potato wedges or cubes halfway through baking to ensure they get crispy on all sides.
• Add a Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or paprika on the potatoes before baking.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil, oregano, or dill for varied flavors. Fresh herbs can also be used, just add them at the end to preserve their flavor.
• Garnish Options: After baking, try garnishing with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.

Alternatives

• Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a shredded cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
• Oil Substitutes: If you want to cut down on oil, you can use a cooking spray or a bit of melted butter for a different texture and taste.
• Herb Substitutes: Fresh or dried herbs like sage, cilantro, or tarragon can be used instead of rosemary and thyme, depending on what you have available or your taste preferences.

Your Questions: Q&A

Q: What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

A: Large russet potatoes are ideal because they have a high starch content, which helps them get crispy on the outside while staying fluffy inside. If you prefer smaller potatoes or a different variety, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?

A: Yes, pre-minced garlic can be used if that’s what you have on hand. However, fresh garlic typically offers a stronger, more vibrant flavor, so you might need to adjust the amount to taste.

Q: How can I make sure the potatoes get crispy?

A: To achieve crispy potatoes, ensure they’re evenly coated with olive oil and spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Turning them halfway through baking also helps them crisp up on all sides.

Q: What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

A: If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a shredded cheese blend. The flavor will be different but still delicious!

Q: Can I add other seasonings or toppings?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for extra flavor. You can also try garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice after baking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up again, or use a toaster oven.