Imagine pulling a tray of golden, crispy potatoes from the oven, their edges perfectly browned and bubbling with melted Parmesan cheese. That’s exactly what you get with these Parmesan Baked Potatoes—a comforting, flavor-packed side dish that’s deceptively simple to make yet delivers gourmet-level results. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, preparing a cozy Sunday roast, or looking for a satisfying vegetarian option, this dish is guaranteed to disappear fast from the table.
What sets these baked potatoes apart is their savory garlic-Parmesan crust, creamy interior, and a crispness that rivals any restaurant-style appetizer. They’re budget-friendly, use pantry staples, and offer plenty of room for creativity (think herbs, extra cheese, or even bacon bits).
Let’s get into how to create this irresistible dish at home!
Ingredients
For the potatoes:
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4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, halved lengthwise
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (not pre-shredded)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional toppings:
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Chopped green onions
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Crumbled cooked bacon
Prep & Cook Time
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Serves: 4–6
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or shallow baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This ensures the cheese crust sticks to the potatoes, not the pan.
Step 2: Season the Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer will become the crispy, golden crust that defines the dish.
Step 3: Oil the Potatoes
Brush the cut side of each potato half with olive oil. This helps the seasoning and cheese adhere better while promoting even browning.
Step 4: Press and Bake
Place each potato half, cut side down, directly onto the cheese mixture. Gently press each one to ensure full contact with the cheese layer.
Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife and the bottoms are golden and crisp. Avoid flipping or moving the potatoes during baking to allow the crust to form undisturbed.
Step 5: Cool and Lift
Remove from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes. Use a flat spatula to gently lift each potato from the pan. The Parmesan crust should remain intact and stick to the bottom of each potato half.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Offer optional toppings on the side for guests to customize their own. These pair wonderfully with steak, grilled chicken, or even a big garden salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Parmesan baked potatoes are:
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Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside
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Perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or potlucks
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Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly
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Great for prepping ahead—just reheat in the oven or air fryer!
They’re also incredibly flexible. You can substitute the Parmesan for another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an earthy touch, or give them a spicy twist with chili flakes.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Baked Potatoes are a brilliant reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a side dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Serve them alongside your favorite main dish or enjoy them on their own—just don’t expect leftovers!
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply indulging yourself, these cheesy, crispy potatoes are a total crowd-pleaser. Try them once, and they’ll become a regular rotation in your kitchen.