Indulge in the crispy, cheesy goodness of parmesan crusted potatoes. This dish is not only a visual delight but also a flavor-packed side that can elevate any meal. The golden, crunchy exterior pairs beautifully with the soft, fluffy interior, making it a favorite for gatherings or family dinners. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 1 pound small potatoes (Yukon Gold or baby potatoes)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb)
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g fat, 28g carbohydrates, 4g protein, and 2g fiber. This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
3. In a large pot, boil potatoes in salted water for about 10-15 minutes until fork-tender.
4. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
5. In a bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated.
7. Roll each potato in the cheese mixture until fully coated.
8. Place the coated potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano can replace thyme for a different aromatic profile.
Serving and Pairings
These parmesan crusted potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables. They also make a fantastic addition to salads or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover parmesan crusted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Freezing is not recommended, as they may lose their texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet leads to soggy potatoes.
- Skipping the boiling step may cause the potatoes to be hard inside.
- Using stale breadcrumbs can affect the crispiness.
- Not seasoning the potatoes adequately will result in bland flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For extra crunch, broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste.
- Make sure the potatoes are dry before coating them.
FAQs
Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but larger potatoes may require longer cooking times. Cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
What can I serve with parmesan crusted potatoes?
These potatoes pair well with almost any main dish, especially grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based breadcrumbs.
How can I make the potatoes spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for an added kick.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion
Parmesan crusted potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, providing a perfect balance of crunch and flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, these potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Parmesan Crusted Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pound small potatoes
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
- Boil potatoes in salted water for about 10-15 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Roll each potato in the cheese mixture until fully coated.
- Place the coated potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
