🥔 Parmesan Baked Potatoes
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
- 6 small to medium Yukon Gold potatoes (or red potatoes, halved)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, helps crisp edges)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: a sprinkle of mozzarella or cheddar for extra cheesy topping
🔥 Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan.
2. Prepare the Parmesan Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine:
- Melted butter
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Mix until you have a thick, spreadable paste.
3. Coat the Pan
- Pour the Parmesan mixture into the bottom of your baking dish and spread it evenly to coat the base.
(This will become the golden, crispy crust that sticks to the potatoes.)
4. Arrange the Potatoes
- Slice each potato in half lengthwise.
- Place the cut side down onto the Parmesan mixture, pressing slightly so it adheres.
- Brush the tops with a little olive oil and season with a bit more salt & pepper.
5. Bake
- Bake cut side down at 425°F (220°C) for 35–40 minutes,
or until potatoes are tender inside and the Parmesan crust is deep golden brown and crispy.
6. Cool & Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes before using a spatula to carefully lift each potato from the pan (the Parmesan crust will be delicate but deliciously crispy).
- Garnish with chopped parsley and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Serve these with:
- Steak, chicken, or fish
- A dollop of sour cream, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing
- A drizzle of hot honey or balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch
💡 Tips & Variations
- Ultra-crispy tip: Use a dark metal baking pan or preheat the pan for 5 minutes before adding potatoes.
- Add herbs: Mix in rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning with the butter mixture.
- Cheese twist: Use a blend of Parmesan and Asiago for extra depth.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, checking halfway through.