If you’re searching for the perfect potato side dish—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with buttery, garlicky goodness—these Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Potatoes are your answer. This recipe delivers a mouthwatering balance of crunch and flavor that pairs wonderfully with steak, chicken, or even a simple salad. When I first tried this recipe, I swapped the regular butter for garlic-infused olive oil, and it added a delicious aroma that filled the kitchen. The Parmesan coating forms a beautiful golden crust, while the inside stays soft and fluffy. It’s a simple dish that transforms humble potatoes into something truly special, perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These potatoes combine the richness of butter, the sharpness of Parmesan, and the earthy kick of garlic for a side dish that’s both comforting and irresistibly flavorful. They bake to crisp perfection without needing a deep fryer, and the recipe is incredibly adaptable—you can spice it up, make it cheesy, or even turn it into a main course. Plus, the smell of roasting garlic and butter will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian bistro.
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Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Potatoes: The Ultimate Side Dish for Every Meal
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden and crispy roasted potatoes tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce and finished with savory Parmesan cheese — a simple yet irresistible side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mix of thyme, oregano, basil)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add halved potatoes to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange potatoes cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes or until golden and crisp on the edges.
- Flip potatoes, sprinkle remaining Parmesan, and roast another 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh twist.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Baby Potatoes
These small, tender potatoes are ideal for roasting because their skins crisp beautifully. You can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into bite-sized chunks.
Butter
Melted butter gives these potatoes their irresistible golden color and rich flavor. I prefer using unsalted butter so I can control the seasoning.
Garlic
Fresh minced garlic infuses the butter with deep, aromatic flavor. If you love garlic, don’t be shy—add an extra clove or two.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for a perfectly crispy crust. It adds a nutty, salty finish that complements the butter beautifully.
Olive Oil
A drizzle of olive oil helps prevent burning and ensures even crisping in the oven.
Italian Seasoning
This mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the potatoes’ savory flavor.
Paprika
Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous golden hue. I sometimes use smoked paprika for extra depth.
Salt and Black Pepper
Simple but crucial seasonings that bring out all the natural flavors.
Fresh Parsley
Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for maximum crispiness.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the potatoes in the garlic butter mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange the potatoes cut-side down on the baking sheet to ensure a crisp bottom.
- Roast for 30–35 minutes or until golden and crispy. Flip halfway through for even browning.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the texture. You can also freeze them after roasting and reheat in the oven straight from frozen.
Variations and Customizations
Cheesy Garlic Potatoes
Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy upgrade.
Spicy Garlic Butter Potatoes
Toss in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
Herb Lovers’ Potatoes
Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Lemon-Parmesan Potatoes
Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest before serving for brightness.
Bacon Garlic Potatoes
Top with crispy bacon bits and chives for a hearty, crowd-pleasing side.
Air Fryer Version
Cook at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for perfect crispiness.
Vegan Option
Use dairy-free butter and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a plant-based version.
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Serve with sour cream, green onions, and shredded cheese for a filling dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby ones?
Yes, just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even roasting.
2. How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?
Pat them dry before roasting and avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Freshly grated is best, but pre-grated works if it’s high quality and not too powdery.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep and season the potatoes in advance; just roast before serving.
5. What type of butter is best?
Unsalted butter allows better control of salt levels, but salted works fine too.
6. Can I roast them on foil instead of parchment?
Yes, but parchment prevents sticking and helps them crisp evenly.
7. Are these potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
8. How long do leftovers last?
They keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
9. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely—carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini roast beautifully with the same seasoning.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use two baking sheets so the potatoes roast instead of steam.
Conclusion
Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Potatoes are a guaranteed hit at any table. With their golden crust, buttery aroma, and cheesy finish, they’re the perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re serving them with grilled meat, roasted chicken, or even on their own, these potatoes are proof that simple ingredients can create truly unforgettable dishes. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
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