Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Save this recipe on:

I’ve made a lot of roasted potato recipes over the years, but none disappear faster than these Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. They’re golden, crispy on the edges, tender on the inside, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Tossed in olive oil, seasoned just right, and sprinkled generously with Parmesan and herbs—these little golden rounds come out of the oven looking like pure comfort.

What I love most is how effortlessly they elevate any dinner. Whether it’s a weeknight chicken dish or a big holiday roast, these potatoes steal the spotlight. The cheese crisps up beautifully in the oven, giving the potatoes a savory crust that’s hard to resist. Add a little parsley for color and freshness, and suddenly, something simple becomes something pretty special.

---

Why You’ll Love These Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

• Crispy perfection: The Parmesan creates a cheesy crust that crunches with every bite.
• Simple ingredients: You probably have everything you need in your kitchen already.
• Versatile: Perfect for a dinner side, potluck favorite, or holiday table hero.
• Crowd-pleasing: These never make it to leftovers—people go back for seconds (and thirds).
• Quick prep: Minimal chopping and easy seasoning make them weeknight-friendly.

---

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Parmesan Roasted Potatoes?

For this recipe, I almost always reach for baby Yukon Gold potatoes. Their natural creaminess pairs perfectly with the crisp Parmesan coating, and they hold their shape beautifully when roasted. If you can’t find Yukon Gold, red potatoes or fingerlings are also great alternatives. The key is to use a waxy variety that roasts well and doesn’t fall apart. Avoid starchy potatoes like russets—they tend to get too fluffy inside and can lose that satisfying bite.

---

Options for Substitutions

You can easily customize these Parmesan Roasted Potatoes depending on what you have on hand or what flavors you prefer:

• Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a bolder taste.
• Herbs: Use dried Italian seasoning, thyme, or rosemary if you don’t have fresh parsley.
• Oil: Olive oil gives great flavor, but avocado oil or melted butter works beautifully too.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds boldness, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Add-ins: Crumbled bacon, as pictured, adds a salty crunch that takes it up a notch. Smoked paprika or chili flakes can bring a touch of heat.

---

Ingredients for Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

• Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes: These roast up tender and creamy inside while the outsides get perfectly golden and crisp.
• Olive Oil: Helps the potatoes roast evenly and gives them a deliciously rich flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
• Garlic (minced or powder): Infuses the potatoes with a deep, savory aroma and taste.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Brightens the final dish with freshness and a pop of color.
• Cooked Crumbled Bacon (optional): Adds a smoky, crispy contrast that pairs incredibly well with the Parmesan.

---

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly, then slice them in half lengthwise to ensure even roasting and maximum surface area for crispiness.

---

Step 2: Season Everything

In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic (or garlic powder), salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

---

Step 3: Add the Parmesan

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan into the bowl and toss again, making sure the cheese clings to the oiled potatoes. Press any loose cheese onto the cut sides of the potatoes for extra crispy bottoms.

---

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place the potatoes cut-side down in a single layer with space between each one. This helps them roast instead of steam.

---

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy and the potatoes are tender inside. Do not flip them during baking—this is key to the crust forming.

---

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh parsley and crumbled bacon (if using). Serve hot while the edges are still crisp and cheesy.

---

How Long to Cook Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes take about 35 to 40 minutes to cook at 400°F (200°C). The cut side should be a deep golden brown and crisp, while the insides are fork-tender. Thicker potato halves may need an extra 5 minutes, but avoid overbaking or the cheese could burn.

---

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

• Dry the potatoes well after washing—moisture can prevent them from crisping.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan, not the shelf-stable kind. It melts and crisps much better.
• Press cheese onto the cut sides to create that signature crust.
• Give them space on the baking sheet. Crowding leads to steaming, not roasting.
• Don’t flip them mid-bake. Leaving the cut side down undisturbed ensures a crispy finish.
• Serve immediately. These are at their absolute best fresh out of the oven while the cheese crust is still crackling.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping parchment paper: The cheese can stick to bare metal, making cleanup tough and causing the crispy crust to tear.
• Using pre-shredded Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting and crisping properly.
• Overcrowding the pan: This causes the potatoes to steam instead of roast, leading to soggy results.
• Using too much oil: A light coating is enough—too much can make the potatoes greasy.
• Not preheating the oven: The oven needs to be hot from the start for the best crust development.

---

What to Serve With Parmesan Roasted Potatoes?

Grilled or Roasted Chicken

These potatoes pair beautifully with herby, juicy chicken—try lemon rosemary or garlic thyme flavors.

Steak or Beef Tenderloin

The crispy Parmesan crust contrasts wonderfully with a tender, juicy steak.

Grilled Fish

A mild white fish like cod or tilapia balances the richness of the potatoes.

Green Beans or Asparagus

Simple steamed or sautéed green veggies keep the plate light and fresh.

Caesar Salad

The crunchy lettuce and zesty dressing mirror the crispy, cheesy vibe of the potatoes.

Fried or Poached Eggs

Turn this into a hearty breakfast or brunch with a couple of eggs on top.

Burgers or Sandwiches

Make it a comfort-food dinner by adding a main handheld dish and these crispy spuds on the side.

Tomato Soup

Creamy, tangy tomato soup and cheesy potatoes are an underrated match—trust me.

---

Storage Instructions

Leftover Parmesan Roasted Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use a 375°F (190°C) oven or an air fryer for about 8–10 minutes to restore the crispy edges. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soft and lose that signature crunch.

If you want to prep ahead, you can slice and season the potatoes, then store them (without cheese) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Toss with Parmesan right before baking.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings, without bacon):

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Cholesterol: 5mg

These numbers can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Not recommended. Frozen potatoes tend to retain moisture, which prevents them from roasting properly and developing a crispy texture.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Nope! The skin adds texture and helps hold the shape. Just wash them well.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the potatoes and season them a day ahead, but for the best texture, roast them just before serving.

Is it okay to use grated cheese from a shaker bottle?

It’s better to avoid it. Freshly grated Parmesan melts and crisps much better, while the shaker kind may not produce the same results.

Can I use an air fryer instead of the oven?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket.

What other herbs work besides parsley?

Chives, thyme, or rosemary make great alternatives or additions.

Why did my potatoes stick to the pan?

If you skipped parchment paper or didn’t use enough oil, the cheese can glue them to the pan. Always line your sheet or grease it well.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, but make sure to use two baking sheets so the potatoes roast properly and don’t steam.

---

Conclusion

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are that golden, cheesy side dish everyone craves but doesn’t realize just how easy it is to make. With crispy edges, tender centers, and a savory Parmesan crust, these little bites transform even the simplest meal into something special. Whether it’s your first time roasting potatoes or you’re a seasoned spud fanatic, this recipe is the one to keep coming back to.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: