Get ready to transform ordinary potatoes into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds! These Parmesan Bake Potato Halves are not just a side dish – they're a crispy, cheesy revelation that combines the comforting warmth of perfectly roasted potatoes with the irresistible punch of aged Parmesan cheese. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to potato sensation that promises golden edges, tender interiors, and a flavor explosion in every single bite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Wash potatoes thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry completely with paper towels to ensure crispy edges.
- Cut potatoes in half lengthwise, creating even potato halves. If potatoes are large, you might want to cut them into slightly smaller pieces for more consistent cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a uniform coating mixture.
- Place potato halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush or spread the Parmesan mixture generously over the cut surfaces of each potato half, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Arrange potato halves with cut sides facing upward, ensuring they are not touching each other to allow proper heat circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges, and tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to set and potatoes to cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: Always pat your potatoes completely dry before seasoning. The drier the potato surface, the crispier your edges will become.
- Even Sizing Matter: Try to cut your potato halves as uniformly as possible to ensure consistent cooking. If some pieces are much larger, they may need extra time in the oven.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each potato half some breathing room. Overcrowding prevents proper heat circulation and can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Quality Cheese Makes a Difference: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting properties. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Consider adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to your Parmesan mixture for an extra layer of flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick.
- Check for Doneness: The potatoes are ready when they're golden brown on the edges and a fork slides in easily. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven and potato size.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 268kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 13mg
