These Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in rich buttery parmesan and savory garlic seasoning. They’re a family-favorite side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken, steak, seafood, or hearty vegetarian mains. Each bite is golden, flavorful, and irresistibly crunchy — everything you want from an oven-roasted potato.
With just a few pantry ingredients and simple prep, this recipe transforms basic potatoes into a restaurant-style side. Fresh garlic, grated parmesan, and Italian herbs toast beautifully in the oven, creating crispy cheesy edges and a deep roasted flavor. Whether you’re cooking a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a special meal, these potatoes are always a hit.
Serve them hot with a sprinkle of parsley and an extra dusting of parmesan for a side dish that’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and absolutely delicious any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Simple ingredients deliver big flavor — and there’s plenty of room to customize.
Potatoes: Baby gold, red potatoes, or russet potatoes cut into bites. Sweet potatoes work too for a sweeter twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. Substitute with garlic powder if needed (1 tsp).
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for crispy melt — pre-shredded works but won’t crisp as well.
Olive Oil: Helps achieve a golden crust. Avocado oil or melted butter also work.
Italian Seasoning: Adds herb flavor. Swap with thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning — add to taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Spatula or tongs
- Parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh parsley after baking.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
- Loaded Style: Top with sour cream, bacon, and chives.
- Garlic Butter: Toss in melted butter and garlic after baking for richness.
- Pesto Toss: Toss warm potatoes with spoonful of basil pesto.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved (or diced russet potatoes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
About 45 minutes — including prep and roasting time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and dry potatoes thoroughly. Cut into halves or bite-size pieces.
3. Season & Toss
In a bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until fully coated.
4. Arrange & Roast
Spread potatoes in a single layer, cut-side down. Roast 30–40 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and crispy.
5. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
Follow these secrets for truly restaurant-quality crispy roasted potatoes.
- Dry potatoes well: Moisture prevents crisping.
- Don’t crowd the pan: Space between potatoes creates golden edges.
- Flip halfway: Helps brown both sides evenly.
- Fresh-grated parmesan: Melts and crisps better than packaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
You can prep & season potatoes ahead and refrigerate. Roast just before serving for best crispness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container 3–4 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer to re-crisp.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes — air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Omit parmesan or use dairy-free parmesan alternative — still delicious with herbs and garlic.