Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a flavorful and nutritious side dish. Tossed with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan, they roast to golden perfection in under an hour. A simple, satisfying recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil (to line baking sheet)
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
Ingredients
- 3 pounds red potatoes halved or quartered
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 cloves garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for roasting. While the oven warms, line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lightly coat the foil with cooking spray or a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures your potatoes will roast evenly and crisp up beautifully.
- Wash and Cut Potatoes: Rinse 3 pounds of small red potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to help them roast better. Depending on the size of your potatoes, cut them in half or into quarters, making sure the pieces are roughly uniform. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and achieves a consistent golden texture.
- Prepare Garlic and Herbs Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder), ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add 1 teaspoon of salt or more depending on your preference. Stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors. The oil will help the herbs and garlic coat the potatoes evenly and infuse them with flavor as they roast.
- Toss Potatoes in Seasoning: Add the prepared potato pieces to the herb and garlic mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Using a large spoon or your hands, gently toss everything together until all potato pieces are thoroughly coated with the oil, garlic, herbs, and cheese. Make sure each potato piece has a thin layer of cheese, which will melt and form a golden, crispy crust during roasting.
- Arrange Potatoes on Baking Sheet: Transfer the seasoned potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out into a single layer with the cut side facing down. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the potatoes to steam instead of roast, preventing them from developing a crispy exterior.
- Roast Potatoes to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the potatoes for 35–40 minutes, turning them 2–3 times during cooking. Use a spatula to gently flip the potatoes, ensuring all sides achieve a golden brown, crispy texture. Keep an eye on them in the last 5–10 minutes, as ovens vary and you want them perfectly crisp but not burnt.
- Check for Doneness: Test a potato piece by piercing it with a fork. It should slide in easily, indicating the potatoes are tender inside. The exterior should be golden brown and crispy, while the inside remains soft and fluffy. If necessary, roast for an additional 5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, making this a perfect side dish for any meal.
Notes
- Red potatoes work best for roasting because their firm texture holds up well and becomes tender without falling apart.
- Cutting the potatoes into uniform sizes ensures even cooking and consistent crispiness.
- Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory layer; using freshly grated cheese improves melting and flavor.
- Turn the potatoes 2–3 times during roasting to achieve golden, crispy edges on all sides.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily fit into a vegetarian meal plan.
- Olive oil contributes healthy fats, while parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.
