Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Cut the potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes. Cut them into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch chunks). If using baby potatoes, you can halve them.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Potatoes
- Toss with oil: In a large bowl, toss the potato pieces with olive oil until they are well coated.
- Add seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the mixture over the potatoes and toss until the potatoes are evenly coated.
Step 3: Bake the Potatoes
- Arrange on the baking sheet: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the potatoes are not overcrowded to ensure they become crispy.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Flip the potatoes halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Remove the potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve: Serve the crispy Parmesan potatoes hot as a side dish or snack. They are great on their own or paired with dips like ranch or ketchup.
Tips and Tricks
- For extra crispiness: Preheat your baking sheet in the oven for 10 minutes before adding the potatoes. This helps to start the crisping process right away.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more garlic powder, paprika, or herbs based on your preference.
- Try different cheeses: For a different twist, try using other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Conclusion
Crispy Crunchy Parmesan Potatoes are a flavorful and irresistible side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. With their golden, crunchy exterior and cheesy, savory taste, these potatoes are sure to become a favorite at your table.
Enjoy making and savoring these delicious crispy Parmesan potatoes!