If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food side dish, these Cheese-Crusted Roasted Potatoes are it. Perfectly golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and finished with a crispy, salty layer of Parmesan, they’re impossible to resist. Every bite delivers that crackly crunch followed by fluffy potato goodness, making this recipe the star of any meal.
These potatoes are simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for holiday gatherings or dinner parties. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce. If cheesy recipes and easy side dishes are your weakness, this one is about to become your new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy cheese crust – Parmesan bakes into a golden, crunchy shell around the potatoes.
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Simple pantry ingredients – Just potatoes, cheese, oil, and seasonings.
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Versatile side dish – Pairs with almost anything from steak to salads.
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Kid-approved – Cheesy and crispy, kids love these potatoes as much as adults.
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Customizable – Use different cheeses, herbs, or spices to switch up the flavor.
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Crowd-pleasing – A great choice for dinner parties, potlucks, or holiday feasts.
Ingredient Breakdown
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Potatoes: Yukon Gold or all-purpose potatoes are ideal since they crisp well while staying creamy inside.
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Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and bakes into that crave-worthy crust. Substitute with Pecorino Romano or sharp cheddar for variation.
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Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and promotes even browning.
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Salt & Black Pepper: Simple but essential for enhancing flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
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Dry the potatoes well – Moisture prevents crisping, so pat them dry after washing.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan – Give potatoes space so hot air circulates for even roasting.
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Use parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
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Grate fresh Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that reduce crispiness.
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Flip halfway – For extra even browning, flip the potatoes during the first bake.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
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Cheese options – Try cheddar, asiago, Gruyère, or a cheese blend for different flavors.
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Herb upgrade – Add rosemary, thyme, or parsley for freshness.
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Spicy twist – Sprinkle paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes for heat.
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Garlic lovers – Toss potatoes with garlic powder or minced garlic before roasting.
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Low-fat version – Use reduced-fat cheese and spray oil instead of olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese-crusted roasted potatoes shine as a side dish for:
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Roasted chicken or turkey
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Fresh green salads for balance
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Burgers or sandwiches as a fun alternative to fries
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Party platters with dips like ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
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Prep ahead – Slice potatoes a few hours early and store in cold water. Drain and dry before baking.
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Storing leftovers – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
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Reheating – Re-crisp in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes or in the air fryer for 5–6 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it softens the cheese crust.
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Freezing – Not recommended, as the texture of potatoes changes after freezing.
A Little History: Potatoes & Parmesan
Potatoes have long been celebrated in comfort food around the world, from creamy mashed potatoes to crispy fries. This recipe takes inspiration from Italian cooking, where Parmesan is often used to create savory crusts and enhance roasted vegetables. By combining the two, you get a rustic yet elevated dish that’s both classic and innovative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes! Sweet potatoes roast beautifully and taste amazing with Parmesan, though they may caramelize more.
Can I make this recipe without cheese?
Of course—just roast with olive oil and herbs for simple crispy potatoes.
What’s the best cheese for extra crunch?
Hard cheeses like Parmesan, Romano, or Asiago work best for a crispy crust.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Not at all. The skin adds flavor and texture, but peel them if you prefer a smoother bite.
Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Cheese-Crusted Roasted Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds or wedges, depending on preference.
- In a mixing bowl, toss potato slices with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Place potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until starting to turn golden and crispy around the edges.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese if not already grated, and prepare a shallow dish for coating.
- Remove potatoes from oven, sprinkle cheese generously over each piece, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Return to oven for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and crispy.
- Let sit for a couple of minutes, then transfer to a platter and serve hot.