These Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with savory flavors. A perfect side dish that complements almost any meal, these potatoes are seasoned with garlic, herbs, and topped with nutty Parmesan cheese for an irresistible finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients that deliver maximum flavor
Perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior
Versatile side dish that pairs with almost any main course
Easy preparation with minimal hands-on time
Great for family dinners or entertaining guests
Customizable with various herbs and seasonings
Can be prepared ahead of time for convenience
Budget-friendly yet impressive dish
Naturally gluten-free side dish option
Kid-friendly while still sophisticated enough for adults

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Red potatoes are the star of this dish, chosen for their waxy texture that holds up well during roasting. Their thin skins become wonderfully crispy while the insides remain creamy and tender. No need to peel them—the skins contain nutrients and add texture.
Olive oil helps create that perfect golden-brown exterior while infusing the potatoes with rich flavor. It also helps the seasonings adhere to the potatoes during roasting. You can substitute with avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point oil.
Minced garlic provides that aromatic foundation that makes these potatoes irresistible. Fresh garlic offers the most vibrant flavor, but pre-minced garlic from a jar works in a pinch when you’re short on time.
Dried oregano adds an earthy, Mediterranean flavor that complements the garlic beautifully. This herb stands up well to high-heat roasting without burning or losing its flavor.
Salt and black pepper are essential for bringing out all the other flavors. Kosher salt works particularly well for roasted vegetables, but table salt is perfectly fine too.
Parmesan cheese creates that savory, nutty crust that makes these potatoes special. It browns beautifully in the oven, adding both flavor and texture. For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than the pre-packaged variety.
Parsley adds a fresh, bright finish and a pop of color to the dish. It’s more than just garnish—it adds a subtle herbaceous note that balances the rich flavors of the potatoes and cheese.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the quartered red potatoes, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
Add half of the Parmesan cheese and toss briefly before transferring the potatoes to a casserole dish.
Cover the dish with tin foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the tin foil, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the potatoes, and return the dish to the oven uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and tender.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 10 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings or when you want leftovers. Each serving contains approximately 180 calories.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Herb Lovers’ Potatoes: Add 1 teaspoon each of rosemary, thyme, and basil along with the oregano for an herb-forward flavor profile.
Spicy Garlic Potatoes: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Lemon Garlic Potatoes: Add the zest of one lemon to the seasoning mix and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the potatoes just before serving.
Loaded Garlic Potatoes: After roasting, top with chives, and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded potato experience.
Ranch-Style Potatoes: Mix in 2 tablespoons of dry ranch seasoning with the other spices for a tangy, herby twist.
Greek-Inspired Potatoes: Use crumbled feta instead of Parmesan and add 1 teaspoon of dried dill to the seasonings.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often develop nicely as they sit, making these potatoes excellent for meal prep.
Freezing: While you can freeze these potatoes, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze them, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating in the Oven: For the best results, reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. This method helps restore some of the original crispiness.
Reheating in the Microwave: For a quick option, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. The potatoes will be less crispy but still delicious.
Reheating in an Air Fryer: For superior crispiness, reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or russet potatoes. Yukon Golds will give you a similar creamy interior with a slightly buttery flavor, while russets will be fluffier inside but may not hold their shape as well as red potatoes.

Why cover the potatoes with foil for the first part of baking?

Covering the potatoes helps them steam slightly before roasting, ensuring they cook through evenly and remain tender inside while developing crispiness outside during the uncovered portion of baking.

Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can quarter the potatoes and toss them with the oil and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before baking for best results.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork and have a golden-brown exterior. If you’re unsure, take one out and cut it open to check for tenderness.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor profile without dairy.

What main dishes pair well with these potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, fish, or even as part of a vegetarian meal alongside a hearty salad or roasted vegetables.

Can I add other vegetables to roast alongside the potatoes?

Yes, carrots, onions, or bell peppers make excellent additions. Just be aware that different vegetables have different cooking times, so you may need to add quicker-cooking vegetables later in the process.

Why are my potatoes not getting crispy?

Overcrowding the pan can prevent proper crisping. Make sure the potatoes are arranged in a single layer with some space between pieces. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, substitute the fresh garlic with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is there a way to reduce the calories in this dish?

You can reduce the olive oil to 2-3 tablespoons and use less Parmesan cheese. However, keep in mind that these ingredients contribute significantly to the flavor and texture of the final dish.

Conclusion

These Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes combine simplicity with incredible flavor, making them a standout side dish for any occasion. The contrast between the crispy, cheese-crusted exterior and the tender interior creates a texture that everyone loves, while the garlic and herbs provide depth of flavor that elevates this beyond basic roasted potatoes.

Whether you’re serving a weeknight family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort. The versatility of these potatoes means they pair beautifully with almost any main course, from a Sunday roast to grilled summer fare.

With easy preparation, common pantry ingredients, and reliable results, this recipe is sure to become a regular feature in your meal rotation. Make a batch today and discover why this simple side dish continues to be a favorite for home cooks everywhere.