Experience the perfect blend of crispy textures and savory flavors with these Crispy Herb Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan. This dish transforms humble small potatoes into a golden, crunchy delight infused with aromatic herbs and rich Parmesan cheese. Ideal as a side dish for any meal, these roasted potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or enjoying them as a hearty snack, these potatoes are sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 5-6 small potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 3.5 oz (100g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, thyme, or herbs of choice, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup (180ml) cold water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and cut the small potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Make the Coating:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add the finely chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or your choice) to the flour mixture and mix well.
- Coat the Potatoes:
- Pour 3/4 cup of cold water into the flour-herb mixture and stir until a thick batter forms.
- Add the cut potatoes to the bowl and toss them in the batter until they are evenly coated.
- Prepare for Roasting:
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the coated potatoes and toss to ensure they are well-coated and will crisp up in the oven.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Add Parmesan Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the coated potatoes, pressing lightly to help it adhere.
- Roast the Potatoes:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Halfway through the cooking time, stir the potatoes to ensure even roasting.
- Serve:
- Remove the roasted potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner.
- Add as a side dish to roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra creaminess.
- Use as a hearty addition to a brunch spread with eggs and toast.
Cooking Tips:
- Uniform Cutting: Cut the potatoes into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Herb Choices: Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities if fresh are unavailable.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow them to roast properly and become crispy.
- Batter Consistency: If the batter is too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, add a bit more flour to achieve the desired coating consistency.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for varied flavor profiles.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion.
- Olive Oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
- Parmesan Cheese adds calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
- Herbs like rosemary and thyme are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Garlic Powder enhances flavor without adding extra calories, and offers health-promoting compounds.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No, due to all-purpose flour. Can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy: Contains dairy from Parmesan cheese. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
- Nut-Free: Yes
- Low-Carb: Moderate carbohydrate content; suitable for balanced diets but not strictly low-carb.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze the potatoes for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat in an oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crispy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Irresistibly Crispy: The combination of flour and Parmesan cheese creates a beautifully crispy exterior.
- Flavor-Packed: Fresh herbs and garlic powder infuse the potatoes with aromatic and savory flavors.
- Easy and Quick: Simple preparation steps make it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite herbs and cheeses to suit your taste.
- Nutritious: Packed with essential vitamins and healthy fats, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.
Conclusion:
Crispy Herb Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan are a delicious and versatile dish that elevates simple potatoes into a gourmet side or main course. The crispy coating, infused with fresh herbs and rich Parmesan cheese, offers a delightful contrast to the tender interior of the potatoes. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these roasted potatoes will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness and the wonderful aroma that fills your home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
- Yes, russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes work well. Choose potatoes that hold their shape when roasted.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the coated potatoes up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and roast when ready to serve.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Parmesan is recommended for its sharp flavor, but you can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a mix of cheeses for varied taste.
- Is it necessary to coat the potatoes with flour?
- The flour helps create a crispy coating. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend or omit the flour for a lighter texture.
- Can I add other seasonings to the coating?
- Yes, feel free to add paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.
- How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet?
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat. Ensure the sheet is well-oiled or greased.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
- Yes, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add a vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
- How do I store leftover roasted potatoes?
- Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Can I freeze the coated potatoes before baking?
- Yes, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- What can I serve with these roasted potatoes?
- They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or as a hearty addition to a brunch spread.