
These golden-brown Parmesan potatoes have become a cherished family recipe, perfected from an old handwritten recipe card. The combination of tender baby potatoes and real Parmesan creates an unforgettable crispy crust that shatters perfectly with each bite. After countless test batches, this version achieves that ideal balance of crispy exterior and creamy center.
These potatoes consistently impress guests with their rich, savory flavor. The key technique of parboiling before roasting ensures they cook evenly while developing that signature crust.
Essential Ingredients
- Small gold potatoes: Choose golf ball-sized ones with unblemished skins
- Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for optimal crust formation
- High-quality butter: European-style preferred for better browning
- Fresh garlic cloves: Adds essential aromatic flavor

Preparation Method
Begin by filling a large pot with cold water and a generous amount of salt. Add the cleaned potatoes and bring to a boil. Cook until just tender when pierced, approximately 8-10 minutes.
During the boiling process, prepare the Parmesan mixture. Grate the cheese fresh, allowing extra for garnishing. Heat butter until foamy but not browned.
Combine the melted butter with herbs and grated cheese until the mixture resembles wet sand. Spread evenly in the baking dish to form the foundation of the crust.
Halve the warm potatoes using a kitchen towel for protection. Arrange cut-side down on the cheese mixture, listening for a gentle sizzle as they make contact.
Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes, until the bottom develops a rich golden crust.
The smoked paprika variation emerged from a kitchen improvisation and has since become a signature enhancement to the classic recipe.
The Perfect Finish
The moment of revealing the golden crust is truly special - carefully flipping each potato to showcase that perfectly caramelized underside. It's a satisfying reveal that never fails to impress.
Seasonal Variations
The recipe adapts beautifully to different herbs - rosemary for winter comfort, fresh thyme in summer months. The core technique remains consistent while allowing for creative seasonal touches.

A Treasured Recipe
This dish has earned its place as a cherished family favorite, becoming known as the special occasion potato that outshines even traditional comfort foods.
Professional Tips
- Allow butter to develop slight nuttiness before mixing
- Adjust boiling time based on potato size
- Finish with fresh Parmesan just before serving
These potatoes showcase how simple ingredients, properly prepared, can create something extraordinary. They complement any main dish while holding their own as a memorable part of the meal.
This recipe demonstrates that true culinary success comes from attention to detail and quality ingredients, resulting in a dish that consistently brings people together.
Cheesy Roasted Potatoes
Baby potatoes seasoned with herbs and parmesan, then baked to crispy, golden perfection.
Ingredients
→ Base
→ Seasonings
Steps
Turn the oven up to 400°F. Rinse the potatoes thoroughly, then boil them for 8-10 minutes with a little salt until they soften a bit.
Mix the butter (melted), minced garlic, all your seasoning ingredients, and Parmesan in a baking dish until it comes together like a paste.
Cut the boiled and cooled potatoes in half lengthwise. Press the flat side into the Parmesan mixture in the baking dish.
Use a brush to spread butter on the tops of the potato halves. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Bake 25-30 minutes until they crisp up and turn golden.
Notes
- Don't peel the potatoes; the skins add texture.
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- It tastes best hot and fresh out of the oven.
Required Tools
- A baking dish
- A big pot
- A brush for spreading butter
Allergy Information
Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
- Contains dairy from Parmesan cheese and butter.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
These details are provided for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
- Calories: ~
- Fats: ~
- Carbohydrates: ~
- Proteins: ~