Name: Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485873H47M50S
Total time: PT-485873H47M50S
Cuisine: American/Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (like oregano, basil, thyme); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes are the perfect side dish when I want something golden, flavorful, and irresistibly crunchy. These potatoes get coated with a blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection for that satisfying crunch on the outside and tender softness inside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to make, yet feels special enough for a weekend dinner or even guests. The Parmesan adds a rich, savory twist that takes simple roasted potatoes to another level. Plus, I get that satisfying crunch without frying, which makes it a bit healthier but still incredibly tasty.

Ingredients

2 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (like oregano, basil, thyme)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until the potatoes are well covered.
Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased pan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people as a side dish. The prep time is roughly 10 minutes, and the cooking time is about 25-30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick yet impressive side.

Variations

For a spicy kick, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
I sometimes swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Roasting with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme adds extra aroma.
Using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes gives a slightly sweeter, softer result.
For a vegan version, I skip the cheese and increase the garlic and herbs, or sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them back in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if I want to keep them crunchy.

FAQs

How do I get my potatoes extra crispy?

I make sure the potatoes are dry before tossing them with oil and seasoning, and I don’t overcrowd the baking sheet so they roast evenly with plenty of air circulation.

Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

I recommend fresh potatoes for the best texture and crispiness. Frozen potatoes tend to release more moisture and don’t crisp up as well.

What type of potatoes work best?

I prefer baby potatoes or Yukon Gold for their creamy texture and ability to crisp up nicely, but Russets can work if cut into smaller pieces.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the Parmesan and seasoning are gluten-free.

Is it possible to bake these in an air fryer?

Yes! I use my air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Conclusion

Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes are one of those easy recipes that I keep coming back to because they deliver on texture and flavor every time. Whether I’m serving them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or just enjoying them as a snack, they never disappoint. The combination of Parmesan, garlic, and herbs makes these potatoes a standout side that’s simple to prepare but feels truly special.