These Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes are little bites of joy! Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they get a tasty makeover with a cheesy crust that makes them hard to resist.
Honestly, I can’t stop munching on these while they bake! They make a perfect side dish or just a snack while I wait for dinner. Who knew potatoes could be this fun? 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby New Potatoes: These small and tender potatoes have a creamy texture. If you can’t find them, try using fingerling potatoes or even regular potatoes cut into similar sizes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as larger potatoes may need a bit more time.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast could add a cheesy flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you want a sharper taste.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create an incredible crunch. If you only have regular bread crumbs, that will work too, but they won’t be as crispy. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the coating become crispy. If you’re out of olive oil, canola or vegetable oil can be good alternatives. Just stick to oils with a high smoke point for roasting.
How Do I Get the Potatoes Crispy?
Getting that perfect crisp on the potatoes is key! Here are some tips to achieve that delightful crunch:
- Make sure to toss the potatoes well in olive oil. This helps the breadcrumbs stick and brown nicely.
- Spread the potatoes out on the baking sheet without crowding them. This allows hot air to circulate and creates a crispy texture.
- For the crispiest finish, bake the potatoes cut side down. This lets the flat side get direct heat for better browning.
- Consider turning them halfway through baking if you want even browning.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby new potatoes, halved
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll bake it for about 25-30 minutes. In total, you can expect around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and rewarding dish perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a quick spray of oil to prevent sticking. This will help your potatoes crisp up nicely!
2. Mix the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients together until they are well mixed. This crunchy coating will add fantastic flavor to your potatoes!
3. Prepare the Potatoes:
Take the halved baby potatoes and toss them in olive oil. Make sure they are well coated. This helps the crumb mixture stick to them and creates a crispy texture when baked.
4. Coat the Potatoes:
Add the oiled potatoes to the bowl with the Parmesan mixture. Toss gently so that each potato half is evenly coated with the crumb mixture. You want every piece to get that tasty coating!
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the coated potatoes cut side down on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out evenly so they have room to crisp up. This helps avoid steam and keeps them crunchy!
6. Bake the Potatoes:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the potatoes to turn golden brown and crispy on the outside while being tender on the inside. You can check them at the 25-minute mark to see if they need more time.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the potatoes are done, take them out of the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve them hot as a delicious side dish or a tasty snack!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While baby new potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can also use fingerling potatoes or even halved larger potatoes. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as larger potatoes may require a bit longer to become tender.
Can I Make These Potatoes in Advance?
Absolutely! You can pre-coat the potatoes and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking, so they cook evenly. They can also be fully cooked and reheated later; just pop them back in the oven until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes?
These potatoes are fantastic as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad. They also work well as a snack on their own, paired with a dipping sauce like ranch or garlic aioli.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the crispiest results when reheating, place them back in the oven for a few minutes rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy.
