Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Introduction

If you’re looking for a side dish that steals the show, these Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are it. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with savory garlic and nutty parmesan in every golden bite—they’re the kind of potatoes that make people ask for seconds (and thirds). Whether you’re serving them with roast chicken, steak, or just enjoying them as a snack straight off the pan, these little flavor bombs are dangerously good and delightfully easy to make.

What You’ll Need

  • 2 pounds baby potatoes (red or gold), halved – Baby potatoes roast evenly and get extra crispy.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter – Helps achieve that golden-brown, crispy exterior.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced – The key to bold, savory flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the taste and crispiness.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a little depth.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme for extra flavor.
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese – Coats the potatoes for a crispy, cheesy crust.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – Adds a fresh, bright finish.
Fresh baby potatoes, parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, and olive oil arranged on a wooden kitchen counter.

(Tip: Yukon Gold or baby red potatoes work best, but you can also use russet potatoes cut into chunks.)

A resource on the benefits of garlic in cooking 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes

  • Wash and cut the potatoes in half (or into bite-sized pieces if using larger potatoes).
  • Pat them dry with a paper towel—removing excess moisture helps them crisp up better.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

  • In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and half of the parmesan cheese.
  • Mix well until all potatoes are evenly coated.

Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

  • Spread the potatoes in a single layer, cut-side down on the baking sheet.
  • This allows maximum contact with the pan, which leads to better crisping.

Step 5: Roast Until Crispy

  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through to ensure even browning.
  • In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the potatoes and let them finish roasting.
A baking sheet lined with parchment paper, filled with halved potatoes seasoned with garlic, parmesan, and herbs.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

  • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for extra flavor.
  • Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

(Tip: For extra crunch, broil the potatoes for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.)

Tasty Variations for Roasted Potatoes

  • Spicy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes – Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
  • Butter & Herb Roasted Potatoes – Swap olive oil for melted butter and add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives.
  • Extra Cheesy Potatoes – Instead of just parmesan, mix in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for even more cheesy goodness.
  • Lemon Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Add the zest of one lemon for a fresh citrusy twist.
  • Vegan Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan and swap butter for vegan margarine or extra olive oil.
A serving spoon lifting crispy, golden-brown roasted potatoes from a pan.

2. What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

These Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes go with almost anything! Here are some perfect pairings:

  • With Chicken – Serve alongside grilled or roasted chicken, chicken parmesan, or garlic butter chicken breasts.
  • With Steak – A classic side for a juicy ribeye, filet mignon, or grilled sirloin.
  • With Seafood – Great with baked salmon, garlic shrimp, or grilled tilapia.
  • With a Fresh Salad – Pair with a Caesar salad, Greek salad, or a simple arugula salad for a lighter meal.
  • For Breakfast or Brunch – These potatoes make a great side with scrambled eggs, omelets, or eggs Benedict.
A plate with roasted potatoes served alongside grilled chicken and a fresh green salad.

With so many ways to enjoy them, these crispy, cheesy potatoes will become a regular favorite.

FAQs About Crispy parmesan potatoes

Here are answers to some common questions to help you make the best crispy roasted potatoes every time.

1. Why aren’t my roasted potatoes crispy?

  • Make sure you pat the potatoes dry before tossing them with oil. Extra moisture can cause steaming instead of roasting.
  • Spread them in a single layer with space between them so they crisp up instead of getting soggy.
  • Roast at a high temperature (400°F or higher) to get that golden crust.

2. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes! You can use Yukon Gold, russet, or red potatoes—just cut them into evenly sized chunks so they cook evenly.

3. Should I peel the potatoes?

No need! The skin adds texture and helps them get crispier. But if you prefer peeled potatoes, you can remove the skin.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can:

  • Prep the potatoes in advance by cutting and seasoning them, then storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting.
  • Par-bake them for 20 minutes, let them cool, and finish roasting them later for extra crispiness.

5. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air frying makes them extra crispy with less oil.

  • Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

6. How do I prevent my garlic from burning?

  • Mix the garlic into the potatoes halfway through roasting instead of at the start.
  • Use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic if you prefer a more even flavor without the risk of burning.
A plate of golden-brown garlic parmesan roasted potatoes garnished with fresh parsley.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

These Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold, savory flavors. A perfect side dish for any meal!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds baby potatoes Red or gold, halved.
  • 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter For crispiness.
  • 4 cloves garlic Minced.
  • ½ tsp salt Enhances taste and crispiness.
  • ½ tsp black pepper Adds a little depth.
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese For a crispy, cheesy crust.
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish (optional).

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  • Wash and cut the potatoes in half (or into bite-sized pieces if using larger potatoes).
  • Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
  • In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix well until evenly coated.
  • Spread the potatoes in a single layer, cut-side down, on the baking sheet to maximize crisping.
  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through to ensure even browning.
  • In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the potatoes and let them finish roasting.
  • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for extra flavor.
  • Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes while keeping a close eye on them.
Keyword Crispy Potatoes, Garlic Parmesan, Roasted Potatoes

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re serving them alongside a roast, piling them onto a plate for game day, or sneaking crispy bites straight from the pan (no judgment here), these Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a guaranteed hit. With just a handful of ingredients and a whole lot of flavor, they prove that the simplest dishes really do make the biggest impact. I hope this recipe becomes one of those go-to favorites in your kitchen—crispy, golden, and shared with the people you love.

For more Recipes to Try

Looking for citrus-inspired desserts? Check out this recipe: