Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! These crispy crunchy Parmesan potatoes are the perfect addition to any dinner table, boasting a delightful blend of textures and irresistible cheesy goodness. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs seeking a quick and delicious weeknight meal solution. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs small red potatoes, scrubbed and quartered (Yukon Gold or russet work well too)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Thoroughly wash and scrub the potatoes. Cut them into roughly equal-sized quarters. Smaller pieces will cook faster and more evenly.
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Toss with Flavor: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the potatoes are evenly coated with the delicious mixture.
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Roast to Perfection: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding; this ensures even crisping. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
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Crispy Finish (Optional): For extra crispiness during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking, you can broil the potatoes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These crispy crunchy Parmesan potatoes are a fantastic side dish to any main course, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Potatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the potatoes are in a single layer to promote even browning and crispiness. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes would give it a nice kick!
- Use fresh herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, use them instead of dried for a more intense flavor. Roughly chop about 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs.
- Different potato varieties: While small red potatoes are recommended for their size and texture, other varieties like Yukon Gold or russet potatoes will also work well.
Variations:
- Garlic Parmesan: Add 2-3 cloves of minced fresh garlic to the mixture for an extra punch of garlic flavor.
- Rosemary Parmesan: Substitute rosemary for the Italian herbs for a more aromatic and earthy flavor profile.
- Spicy Parmesan: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on potato size and oil used)
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 3-4g
This recipe offers a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional potato sides. It's a quick dinner idea that's easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy creating this fantastic dish in your own kitchen!