Parmesan Baked Potatoes

When it comes to those who enjoy potatoes baked with Parmesan cheese, there are two camps of people: You either want the potatoes crispy or you want them creamy. This recipe for Parmesan baked potatoes falls into the latter category.

Instead of crispy fried Parmesan potatoes with crunchy edges, these are tender and buttery with golden, cheesy bottoms. The potatoes roast cut-side down in a pool of melted butter and Parmesan, soaking up all that richness so their interiors turn supremely creamy while their skins stay intact. What emerges from the oven are potatoes with a savory, almost custard-like quality, while the tops remain soft and yielding.

This is low-maintenance comfort food that requires only three ingredients: butter, Parmesan and red potatoes that you don’t even need to peel. In less than an hour, you have a potato recipe side dish that tastes as if you put in far more effort than you actually did. The combination of salty cheese, rich butter and the earthy sweetness of roasted potatoes is irresistible.

Ingredients for Parmesan Baked Potatoes

• Melted butter: Melted butter provides a rich, flavorful coating that allows the potatoes to roast evenly while developing a golden color. The butter also helps the Parmesan adhere to the cut surfaces of each potato half.
• Parmesan cheese: This aged cheese adds a savory, nutty depth that forms an irresistible golden crust on each potato half. Its umami-rich flavor complements the natural earthiness of the potatoes. Grate your own cheese; it cooks better than the shakeable kind found in a can.
• Red potatoes: Red potatoes have thin, tender skins and require no peeling. They also hold their shape beautifully during roasting. These waxy potatoes offer a creamy interior that complements the cheese-enriched bottom perfectly.

Directions

Step 1: Bake the potatoes

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Pour the melted butter into a 13×9-inch baking pan. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the butter. Place the potatoes, cut-side down, over the cheese. Bake, uncovered, for 40 to 45 minutes or until tender.

Parmesan Baked Potato Variations

• Add fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped rosemary, thyme or parsley over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking for an aromatic, garden-fresh finish.
• Try different cheeses: Swap in sharp cheddar, Gruyère or Pecorino Romano for the Parmesan to create an entirely different flavor profile, from nutty to tangy.
• Make them spicy: Stir a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the melted butter before pouring it into the pan for a subtle kick of heat.
• Try sweet potatoes: Replace the red potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter version that pairs beautifully with the salty Parmesan.
• Incorporate bacon: Crumble cooked bacon over the potatoes halfway through baking for a smoky, indulgent twist on this simple side dish.

How to Store Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Store leftover Parmesan baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure the potatoes have cooled to room temperature before sealing them up to prevent excess moisture from building up inside the container.

How long do Parmesan baked potatoes last?

Parmesan baked potatoes will stay fresh in the refrigerator for three to four days when stored properly in an airtight container. After that, the potatoes may start to lose their texture and flavor, so it’s best to enjoy them within that window.

How do you reheat Parmesan baked potatoes?

The oven or toaster oven is your best bet for reheating these potatoes while maintaining their texture. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and reheat at 375° for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese has crisped up again.

Parmesan Baked Potato Tips

How can you make these crispy Parmesan potatoes?

For a crispier version of Parmesan potatoes, try slicing them thinly and tossing them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika and grated Parmesan before roasting them until golden and crispy. The thinner slices and higher heat create more surface area for browning, resulting in irresistibly crunchy edges. Or, cut the potatoes in half, toss them in olive oil and seasonings, then bake them in a pile of Parmesan, as with these Parmesan-crusted potatoes.

What can you serve with Parmesan baked potatoes?

These savory, cheesy potatoes pair perfectly with simple roasted or grilled meats, such as roast chicken, pork chop recipes or steak. They also make an excellent side for meat loaf or glazed ham. For a lighter meal, serve them alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans.