There’s something irresistibly cozy about a tray of golden, crispy potatoes coming straight out of the oven. These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes are the kind of side dish that brings everyone to the table — simple, flavorful, and baked to perfection. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, these buttery, cheesy potatoes fit right in.
They’re made with pantry staples and a touch of love, giving you that crunchy-outside, tender-inside bite every time. Let’s make this comforting side that’s guaranteed to steal the spotlight from the main course.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Side Dish / Dinner | 10 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings | ~210 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds (about 700 g) baby potatoes (red, yellow, or colorful mix)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for extra crispness)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prep the potatoes: Wash and pat dry the baby potatoes. Slice each in half lengthwise.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
- Add Parmesan layer: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the parchment paper where you’ll place the potatoes — this creates that perfect cheesy crust.
- Arrange & bake: Place the potatoes cut-side down on the cheese layer. Press gently to help the Parmesan stick.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown and crisp. Avoid flipping during baking — that’s how the crust stays intact.
- Finish: Once baked, brush lightly with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve warm — the crisp Parmesan edges and creamy centers are absolutely divine fresh from the oven!
Helpful Notes & Tips
- For extra crunch: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end (keep an eye on them!).
- Make ahead: You can par-boil the potatoes for 5 minutes earlier in the day, then bake before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Cheese tip: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a crispier texture than pre-shredded.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Lovers: Add rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning to the mix for aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.
- Lighter Version: Use olive oil spray and skip the butter for a lighter yet still crispy version.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar for an extra-melty twist.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy potatoes pair beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or steak for an easy family dinner
- Salmon or shrimp for a light, balanced meal
- Fresh salads or roasted veggies to keep things simple and wholesome
Serve them straight from the pan for that rustic, homey vibe — no fancy plating needed!
Conclusion
Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loaded with cheesy flavor — these Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes are a must-have side dish for any meal. They’re easy enough for weeknights yet special enough for Sunday dinner. Grab your favorite sheet pan, gather the family, and enjoy this cozy comfort food together.