Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes

I recently stumbled upon a recipe that has completely transformed our weeknight dinners – Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes. Honestly, I’ve made roasted potatoes countless times, but this combination of crispy edges, fluffy insides, and that incredible Parmesan and herb crust is just… wow. From the moment the aroma fills the kitchen to the last satisfying bite, these potatoes are a family favorite. Even my picky eaters, who usually side-eye anything green, devour these herb-studded gems. They’re simple enough for a casual dinner, yet elegant enough to grace a holiday table. If you’re looking for a side dish that’s guaranteed to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen, you absolutely must try these Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes. Trust me, your taste buds (and your family!) will thank you.

Ingredients for Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes

This recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients to create an explosion of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Potatoes (2 lbs): Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor, while Russets become wonderfully fluffy inside and crispy outside. Either works beautifully, depending on your preference.
• Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Extra virgin olive oil is best for its flavor and health benefits. It helps the potatoes crisp up perfectly in the oven and carries the flavors of the herbs and Parmesan.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Freshly grated Parmesan is crucial for the best flavor and melting quality. Avoid pre-shredded Parmesan as it often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as well, hindering that beautiful cheesy crust.
• Fresh Rosemary (2 tablespoons, chopped): Rosemary brings a piney, fragrant aroma that complements potatoes and Parmesan wonderfully. Fresh rosemary is preferred for its robust flavor.
• Fresh Thyme (2 tablespoons, chopped): Thyme adds an earthy, slightly lemony note that balances the richness of the Parmesan and rosemary. Fresh thyme is ideal for its brighter taste.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Garlic powder provides a subtle, savory background flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
• Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Onion powder adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor that rounds out the savory notes.
• Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste): Kosher salt or sea salt are recommended. Salt is essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste): Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and enhances the overall seasoning.

Instructions: Roasting Parmesan Herb Potatoes to Perfection

Follow these simple steps to create crispy, flavorful Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare a Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to achieving crispy potatoes. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. You can also use aluminum foil, but parchment paper often yields better results for even browning.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving the skin on adds nutrients, fiber, and a rustic charm. Cut the potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. Uniform size is crucial for even cooking; otherwise, smaller pieces will overcook and burn while larger pieces remain undercooked. Aim for roughly the same size for all potato pieces.
3. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh rosemary, chopped fresh thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Make sure every potato piece is touched by the oil and herb mixture for maximum flavor and crispiness. Use your hands to toss if needed to ensure even distribution.
4. Arrange Potatoes on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, resulting in soggy potatoes instead of crispy ones. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure potatoes have enough space. Arranging them in a single layer allows for maximum heat circulation and even browning.
5. Roast the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender on the inside and golden brown and crispy on the outside. The roasting time can vary depending on your oven and the size of the potato cubes. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes.
6. Flip and Continue Roasting (Optional, but Recommended): For extra crispy potatoes, flip the potatoes halfway through the roasting time, around 20 minutes. This ensures even browning on all sides. Use a spatula to gently flip the potatoes. If you want them extra golden and crispy, you can even broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a very close eye to prevent burning. Broiling is a powerful heat source, so watch carefully.
7. Check for Doneness: To check if the potatoes are done, pierce a potato cube with a fork. It should be easily pierced and feel tender inside. The edges should be golden brown and crispy. If they are still firm, continue roasting for another 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.
8. Serve Immediately: Once roasted to perfection, remove the Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes from the oven and serve them immediately. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy straight from the oven. The aroma alone will be irresistible!

Nutrition Facts for Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes

(Per serving, approximately 1 cup, assuming recipe serves 6)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
• Calories: Around 250 calories per serving. Calories can vary slightly depending on the exact type and amount of potatoes and olive oil used.
• Total Fat: Approximately 12g of fat per serving. This includes healthy fats from olive oil and Parmesan cheese. Fat contributes to satiety and flavor.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g of carbohydrates per serving. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy.
• Protein: Approximately 5g of protein per serving. Parmesan cheese contributes to the protein content. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues.
• Fiber: Approximately 4g of fiber per serving (if potato skins are left on). Fiber aids digestion, promotes fullness, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Note: These are estimated nutritional values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time for Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes. This includes washing, chopping the potatoes, grating Parmesan cheese, chopping herbs, and mixing all ingredients together. Most of the time is spent prepping the potatoes.
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes. Roasting time in the oven. This is mostly hands-off time while the oven does the work.
• Total Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes. From start to finish, you can have delicious Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes ready in under an hour. This makes it a great option for weeknight meals or when you need a flavorful side dish relatively quickly.

How to Serve Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes

These versatile roasted potatoes are a fantastic side dish for a wide variety of meals. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish for Main Courses:
  • Roasted Chicken or Grilled Chicken: The crispy potatoes perfectly complement the savory flavors of roasted or grilled chicken.
  • Steak or Roast Beef: Elevate your steak or roast beef dinner with these flavorful potatoes as a classic and satisfying side.
  • Pork Chops or Roasted Pork Tenderloin: The herbs and Parmesan pair beautifully with pork dishes, adding a touch of elegance.
  • Salmon or Baked Fish: These potatoes are a delicious and hearty accompaniment to flaky salmon or other baked fish.
  • Vegetarian Main Courses: Serve alongside lentil loaf, vegetarian burgers, or grilled halloumi for a complete and satisfying vegetarian meal.
• With Dips and Sauces:
  • Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli is a classic pairing for roasted potatoes.
  • Spicy Mayo: Add a kick with spicy mayonnaise for dipping.
  • Ranch Dressing: A simple and crowd-pleasing dip.
  • Ketchup or Mustard: For a more casual and kid-friendly option.
  • Chimichurri Sauce: For a vibrant and herbaceous dipping sauce.
• In Bowls and Salads:
  • Grain Bowls: Add roasted potatoes to grain bowls with quinoa, farro, or brown rice, along with roasted vegetables and a protein source.
  • Warm Potato Salad: Use these roasted potatoes as a base for a warm potato salad, tossing them with vinaigrette, herbs, and other vegetables.
  • Breakfast Bowls: Include roasted potatoes in breakfast bowls with eggs, avocado, and salsa for a hearty and flavorful start to the day.
• As a Snack or Appetizer:
  • Party Appetizer: Serve small portions of roasted potatoes as a tasty and satisfying appetizer at parties or gatherings.
  • Game Day Snack: These are perfect for game day – easy to eat and full of flavor.

Additional Tips for the Best Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes

Elevate your Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes from good to absolutely incredible with these helpful tips:

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are recommended, you can also experiment with other potato varieties. Red potatoes, for example, have a waxy texture that holds its shape well during roasting. Fingerling potatoes are also delicious and naturally smaller, requiring less chopping. Consider the texture you prefer when selecting your potatoes.
2. Don’t Skip the Soaking (Optional, for Extra Crispiness): For truly extra crispy potatoes, consider soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before roasting. Soaking removes excess starch, which contributes to a crispier exterior. After soaking, make sure to thoroughly drain and pat the potatoes completely dry with paper towels before tossing them with oil and seasonings. Excess moisture will hinder crisping.
3. Preheat the Baking Sheet (For Maximum Crisp): For an extra crispy bottom, preheat the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats. Carefully place the seasoned potatoes onto the hot baking sheet. The initial contact with the hot surface will start the crisping process immediately. Use oven mitts to handle the hot baking sheet.
4. Use Fresh Herbs and Don’t Be Shy: Fresh herbs are key to the vibrant flavor of this dish. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the rosemary and thyme. You can also experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano, parsley, or sage to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Consider the herbs that complement your main course.
5. Grate Your Own Parmesan Cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which prevents it from melting and browning properly. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and creates a wonderfully cheesy and crispy crust. Use a microplane or box grater to grate Parmesan just before using.
6. Season Generously and Taste as You Go: Salt is crucial for bringing out the flavor of the potatoes and other ingredients. Don’t be afraid to season generously. Taste the potatoes after tossing them with oil and seasonings and adjust salt and pepper as needed. You can always add more seasoning before roasting, but it’s harder to correct under-seasoning afterward.
7. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan (Crucial for Crispiness): As mentioned earlier, overcrowding the baking sheet will cause the potatoes to steam rather than roast, resulting in soggy potatoes. Ensure the potatoes are in a single layer with space between them. If necessary, use two baking sheets or roast in batches to avoid overcrowding.
8. Adjust Roasting Time Based on Potato Size and Oven: Roasting times are approximate and can vary depending on the size of your potato cubes and the calibration of your oven. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes and adjust the roasting time as needed. Potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and golden brown and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes

Here are some common questions and answers to help you make perfect Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes every time:

Q1: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

A: While fresh herbs are highly recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. If substituting dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, as dried herbs are more concentrated. However, the flavor will be noticeably less vibrant compared to fresh herbs. Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs for this recipe.

Q2: Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

A: Roasted potatoes are best enjoyed fresh and crispy straight from the oven. However, you can prep the potatoes ahead of time by washing, cutting, and tossing them with oil and seasonings. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, spread them on a baking sheet and roast as directed. Keep in mind that prepped potatoes might release some moisture, so pat them dry again before roasting if needed.

Q3: How do I store leftover roasted potatoes?

A: Store leftover Parmesan Herb Roasted Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to help crisp them up again. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soggy. For best results, reheat in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to roast with the potatoes?

A: Absolutely! Roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with potatoes. You can add other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. You can also add onions, bell peppers, or broccoli florets. Adjust the roasting time accordingly, as some vegetables may cook faster or slower than potatoes. Consider cutting vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.

Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

A: While Parmesan is classic and provides a salty, nutty flavor, you can experiment with other hard cheeses. Pecorino Romano is a good alternative with a similar salty and sharp flavor. Asiago or Grana Padano could also work. Avoid using softer cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, as they may melt too much and not create the desired crispy crust.

Q6: My potatoes aren’t crispy. What did I do wrong?

A: Several factors can contribute to soggy potatoes. The most common reasons are overcrowding the pan, not using enough oil, and not roasting at a high enough temperature. Make sure to spread the potatoes in a single layer, use a sufficient amount of olive oil to coat them, and roast at 400°F (200°C). Soaking potatoes beforehand and preheating the baking sheet can also enhance crispiness. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate.

Q7: Can I make these potatoes vegan?

A: To make these potatoes vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese. You can increase the amount of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor alternative, or use a vegan Parmesan cheese substitute. Ensure your chosen vegan Parmesan alternative is designed for baking and melting. The herbs and olive oil will still provide plenty of flavor even without the Parmesan.

Q8: Can I add garlic cloves instead of garlic powder?

A: Yes, you can definitely add fresh garlic cloves. For a milder garlic flavor, add whole peeled garlic cloves to the potatoes during the last 15-20 minutes of roasting. For a stronger garlic flavor, mince or press 2-3 cloves of garlic and toss them with the potatoes along with the other seasonings. Be careful not to burn minced garlic, so add it later in the roasting process if you are concerned. Garlic powder provides a more evenly distributed garlic flavor throughout the potatoes.

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