Parmesan Baked Potatoes are a savory, crispy, and cheesy delight that elevates the humble potato into a gourmet side dish. With a golden crust of Parmesan cheese and a tender, fluffy interior, these potatoes are perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or even as a snack. The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheese creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re pairing them with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or enjoying them solo, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
🧂 Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best results)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or extra olive oil for greasing
🔪 Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes
Start by washing and scrubbing the potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture and flavor. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. If they’re large, you can quarter them for smaller portions.
2. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Create the Parmesan Crust
In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly across the baking tray where each potato half will sit — this will form the crispy cheese crust.
4. Coat the Potatoes
Brush the cut side of each potato half with olive oil. Press the oiled side down firmly onto the Parmesan mixture on the tray. This ensures the cheese sticks well and forms a golden crust during baking.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 35–45 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the Parmesan crust should be golden brown and crispy. Avoid flipping the potatoes during baking — they need to stay face-down to develop that irresistible crust.
6. Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the potatoes rest for 5 minutes before gently lifting them off the tray with a spatula. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
🍴 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Dip in sour cream, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for extra indulgence.
đź’ˇ Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Swap: Try mixing Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a deeper flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the cheese mix.
- Loaded Style: Top with crispy bacon bits, chives, and a dollop of sour cream after baking.
- Make It Vegan: Use vegan Parmesan and olive oil-based butter substitutes.
These Parmesan Baked Potatoes are more than just a side dish — they’re a statement. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Save this recipe, share it with friends, and enjoy the compliments that roll in every time you serve them!
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