Parmesan Roasted Red Potatoes

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Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with savory parmesan flavor—Parmesan Roasted Red Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for nearly any meal. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a holiday spread, or just need something satisfying to go with your protein of choice, these potatoes deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Each bite gives you a golden crunch followed by the fluffy richness of well-seasoned red potatoes.

The magic comes from a generous coating of grated parmesan that crisps up beautifully in the oven, forming a lacy, golden crust around every slice. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley add brightness and color, while a dollop of tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt makes this dish feel indulgent. Best of all? It’s a one-pan wonder that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Roasted Red Potatoes Recipe

• Perfect balance of crispy edges and creamy potato centers
• Only a handful of simple ingredients
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Works as a side dish or even a savory snack
• Can be prepped ahead and baked fresh before serving

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make these potatoes perfectly crisp and golden, a few essential tools go a long way:

• Baking Sheet or Cast Iron Skillet: A heavy-duty baking surface ensures even heat distribution and helps crisp up the parmesan.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Sharp Knife or Mandoline: Ensures even slices, which means even cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for tossing the potatoes with oil, seasoning, and cheese.
• Spatula: Helps flip or lift the potatoes without tearing the cheesy crust.

Each tool supports a smoother prep process and a more consistent texture in the final result.

Preparation Tips

Start by washing the red potatoes well—since the skins stay on, cleanliness is key. Slice them evenly, ideally about 1/4-inch thick, so they cook at the same rate. Tossing the potatoes in olive oil before adding the parmesan helps the cheese stick and encourages browning. Pressing the potatoes down slightly before baking ensures better surface contact, making them extra crispy. Finally, don’t overcrowd the pan—space between slices allows hot air to circulate and crisp up the edges beautifully.

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Ingredients for this Parmesan Roasted Red Potatoes Recipe

• 1.5 pounds small red potatoes, washed and halved or sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best results)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)

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Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash the red potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a towel. Slice them into even rounds about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking and perfect crisping. If you’re using baby red potatoes, simply halving them is fine.

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Step 2: Season the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated. This step ensures each slice is flavorful and sets the base for a well-seasoned crisp.

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Step 3: Add the Parmesan Coating

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese directly onto the parchment in an even layer where you plan to place the potatoes. Arrange the potato slices cut-side down on top of the cheese, pressing slightly so they make good contact.

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Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bottoms of the potatoes are golden brown and crispy and the tops are fork-tender. Keep an eye on the cheese—it should form a crispy crust without burning. Avoid flipping the potatoes during baking to preserve the crust.

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Step 5: Cool and Garnish

Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the potatoes rest for 5 minutes. This helps the cheese set, making them easier to remove. Use a spatula to carefully lift them from the pan. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley and serve warm with sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side.

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Notes

For the best texture, choose smaller red potatoes as they have a thinner skin and a creamy interior. Freshly grated parmesan will yield better results than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting and crisping. If you enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes can be added to the seasoning mix. These potatoes are versatile—serve them with eggs for breakfast, alongside grilled meats for dinner, or even as a party snack with dip.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: This traps steam and prevents the potatoes from crisping properly. Give each slice room to breathe.
• Using damp potatoes: If the slices aren’t properly dried after washing, they may steam instead of roast.
• Skipping the parchment or silicone mat: The parmesan can stick and burn on bare metal, making it hard to remove the potatoes cleanly.
• Not pressing the potatoes down: Gentle pressure helps the cheese form that signature crispy crust.
• Using low-quality cheese: Pre-grated parmesan lacks the moisture and flavor of fresh cheese and may not melt as well.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Parmesan Roasted Red Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the potatoes soggy.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 330mg
• Cholesterol: 10mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or baby yellow potatoes also work well. Just ensure they are sliced evenly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can try using dairy-free cheese alternatives, but note that the crispiness may vary.

What’s the best way to get the potatoes super crispy?

Dry the potatoes well, use enough oil, and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can slice and season the potatoes ahead of time. Bake them just before serving for the best texture.

Is there a substitute for parmesan?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great substitutes with similar melting qualities.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Absolutely! Try rosemary, thyme, or even Cajun seasoning for extra flair.

How do I keep the parmesan from burning?

Make sure the cheese is under the potatoes and not exposed directly to the heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding and rotate them halfway through baking.

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Conclusion

Parmesan Roasted Red Potatoes are a delicious, crispy, and flavor-packed side dish that pairs with just about anything. With a few pantry staples and a good baking sheet, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible potatoes any night of the week. Simple, savory, and always satisfying, they’re bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.

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