Parmesan Baked Potatoes

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Crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious, these Parmesan Baked Potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a barbecue, alongside a hearty dinner, or as a tasty appetizer, these golden-brown potatoes are sure to be a hit.

The combination of tender, fluffy potatoes with a crispy, cheesy crust makes this dish irresistible. The rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan enhances the natural taste of the potatoes, while a touch of seasoning brings everything together for the perfect bite.

Golden and Crispy Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Baking potatoes with Parmesan creates a wonderfully crisp crust on the outside while keeping the inside soft and creamy. The cheese melts and browns beautifully, forming a rich, golden layer that adds an extra crunch to every bite.

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite seasonings or toppings to make it your own!

Ingredients for Parmesan Baked Potatoes

To achieve the perfect balance of crispy and creamy, you’ll need just a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making these baked potatoes a delicious and satisfying dish.

• Potatoes – Choose medium-sized Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture. Yukon Golds provide a naturally buttery taste, while Russets create a fluffy interior with a crispy skin.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts into a crispy, golden crust, adding a deep, nutty flavor to the potatoes. Avoid pre-packaged grated Parmesan for the best results.
• Butter – Melted butter helps the Parmesan adhere to the potatoes and enhances their rich, savory taste while ensuring a beautifully crisp texture.
• Garlic Powder – A sprinkle of garlic powder adds a subtle, aromatic depth that pairs perfectly with the Parmesan and butter.
• Paprika – This spice enhances the potatoes with a mild smoky flavor and contributes to a lovely golden color.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Simple but essential, these seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes and balance the richness of the cheese and butter.
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness to the finished dish.

How to Make Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Creating these crispy and cheesy potatoes is an effortless process that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly golden and delicious results.

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

Wash the potatoes thoroughly and slice them in half lengthwise. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 3:

In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Spread this mixture evenly over the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4:

Melt the butter and brush it generously over the cut side of each potato half. Then, press the buttered side firmly onto the Parmesan mixture, ensuring the cheese and seasoning coat the potatoes well.

Step 5:

Arrange the potatoes cut side down on the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese forms a crispy, golden crust.

Step 6:

Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before carefully lifting them from the baking sheet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

How Long to Bake Parmesan Baked Potatoes

The baking time for these Parmesan Baked Potatoes depends on their size and variety. You want them to be crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside. Here’s a general guideline:

• Small Potatoes – Bake for 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
• Medium Potatoes – Bake for 30-35 minutes for the perfect balance of crispy and tender.
• Large Potatoes – Bake for 35-40 minutes, checking for doneness with a fork.

You’ll know they’re ready when the potatoes are fork-tender, and the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. If needed, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to get an extra crispy topping.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Parmesan Baked Potatoes, they can be stored and reheated easily while maintaining their delicious crispy texture.

• Refrigerator – Store the potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer – You can freeze baked potatoes for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating – To keep the crispy texture, reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soft rather than crispy.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Baked Potatoes

To achieve the best results every time, keep these simple yet effective tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Parmesan – Freshly grated Parmesan creates the crispiest, most flavorful crust. Pre-packaged Parmesan may not melt as well.
• Dry the Potatoes Well – Removing excess moisture from the cut sides of the potatoes helps them crisp up better while baking.
• Press Firmly into the Parmesan – Make sure each potato half is well-coated with the cheese mixture for maximum crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet – Leave space between the potatoes to allow even heat circulation, ensuring all of them crisp up properly.
• Broil for Extra Crispiness – If you want an extra crunchy Parmesan crust, broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While Parmesan gives the crispiest crust, you can experiment with cheddar, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano for a slightly different flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes and coat them with the Parmesan mixture ahead of time. Simply store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

Do I need to flip the potatoes while baking?

No, keeping them cut-side down allows the Parmesan to form a crispy, golden crust without the need for flipping.

These Parmesan Baked Potatoes are the perfect easy and delicious side dish, packed with flavor and texture. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best experience!

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