Description
Crispy and flavorful Parmesan Baked Potatoes made with russet potatoes coated in melted butter and a savory Parmesan cheese mixture, baked to golden perfection. This easy side dish is perfect for any meal and can be garnished with fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes, washed and halved lengthwise
Cheese Mixture
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the potatoes evenly and developing a crispy crust.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Tilt the dish to evenly coat the bottom with butter, which will help the potatoes crisp up and add rich flavor.
- Mix the Cheese Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture will create a delicious crust on the potatoes.
- Arrange the Potatoes: Sprinkle the cheese seasoning evenly over the buttered bottom of the baking dish. Place the potato halves cut side down on top of the cheese mixture, pressing gently so they make good contact for even browning.
- Bake: Bake the potatoes for 35 to 40 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye to avoid burning while ensuring full tenderness.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let the potatoes rest for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or chili flakes to the Parmesan cheese mixture.
- Use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon gold for the best texture and crispiness.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add a little more melted butter before baking.
- These potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, especially grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
