Ingredients Overview
These ingredients are easy to find, but together they create bold, comforting flavors.
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🥔 Potato Ingredients
• 1.3 kg (about 3 lb) baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
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🌿 Optional Herb Add-Ins
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
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🧄 Optional Flavor Boosters
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (for heat)
• Extra Parmesan for serving
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🍽️ Kitchen Equipment Needed
• Large pot
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Sharp knife
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🥔 Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly. If using baby potatoes, cut them in half. If using larger potatoes, cut them into thick wedges or chunks of equal size.
Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water.
Bring to a boil and cook for 8–10 minutes, just until the potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked.
Drain well and allow the potatoes to steam dry for a few minutes. This step is crucial for crispiness.
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🧂 Step 2: Seasoning the Potatoes
Transfer the warm potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
Add olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and optional herbs or garlic.
Toss gently until all potatoes are evenly coated.
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🧀 Step 3: Adding the Parmesan Coating
Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan over the potatoes and toss again.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread the remaining Parmesan directly onto the parchment in an even layer where the potatoes will sit.
This creates a crispy, cheesy crust on the bottom of each potato.
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🔥 Step 4: Baking the Potatoes
Place the seasoned potatoes cut-side down onto the Parmesan-lined baking sheet.
Press gently so each potato makes good contact with the cheese.
Bake in a preheated oven at 220°C (425°F) for 30–35 minutes, without turning.
The Parmesan will melt, crisp, and form a golden crust.
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🔁 Step 5: Optional Final Flip (Extra Crisp)
For maximum crunch, carefully flip the potatoes and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.
Watch closely to avoid burning the cheese.
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🌿 Step 6: Garnishing & Finishing Touches
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and chili flakes if desired.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
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🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Parmesan Baked Potatoes pair beautifully with:
• Grilled chicken or steak
• Roasted vegetables
• Burgers or sandwiches
• Fried or baked eggs for brunch
Serve with dipping sauces like:
• Garlic aioli
• Sour cream
• Spicy mayo
• Yogurt herb sauce
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🔁 Delicious Variations
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🧄 Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Add freshly minced garlic to the olive oil and brush over potatoes after baking to prevent burning.
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🧀 Cheesy Deluxe Version
Top potatoes with mozzarella in the last 5 minutes of baking.
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🌶️ Spicy Parmesan Potatoes
Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.
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🌱 Vegan Option
Use vegan Parmesan and olive oil only—still crispy and flavorful.
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🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat in oven or air fryer at 200°C (390°F)
• Avoid microwaving—it softens the crust
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💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Parmesan Potatoes
• Use freshly grated Parmesan, not powdered
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet
• Steam-dry potatoes after boiling
• Bake cut-side down for best crust
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❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Skipping the pre-boil step
• Using too much oil (makes cheese soggy)
• Turning potatoes too early
• Using pre-shredded cheese with additives
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❤️ Final Thoughts
These Parmesan Baked Potatoes are proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable results. Crispy cheese, tender potatoes, and bold seasoning make this dish a guaranteed favorite every time.