Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor yet simple enough for any weeknight, this Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe is a total winner. The fingerling potatoes get beautifully crispy on the cut side, thanks to roasting, while the Parmesan adds that irresistible savory crunch. I always have a bag of fingerlings on hand just to whip this up whenever comfort food calls my name.
This recipe is special because it’s a perfect balance of ease and gourmet feel—great for cozy dinners at home or when you want to impress guests without the fuss. Plus, the fresh parsley sprinkled on top gives a brightness that really makes the dish pop, which I love. Once you try this Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe, it’ll be a regular in your rotation, trust me!
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect Crispy Texture: Roasting cut-side down seals in the moisture while getting golden and crisp.
- Flavor Layers: Smoked paprika, garlic, onion powder, and Parmesan combine to create a complex, irresistible taste.
- Simple, Minimal Ingredients: No crazy pantry hunts—just quality fingerling potatoes, fresh parsley, and everyday spices.
- Fresh Finish: Parsley lifts the dish with a pop of fresh color and brightness that balances the richness.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe plays a specific role to ensure a delicious outcome. The fingerlings are small and tender, perfect for roasting without needing to peel, while the seasoning combo enhances their natural flavor without overpowering.
- Fingerling potatoes: Their waxy texture holds shape well and crisps beautifully when roasted.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that golden crisp exterior.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural potato flavors.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that makes these potatoes special.
- Garlic powder: For a mellow, savory background note without overpowering.
- Onion powder: Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.
- Black pepper: Provides just enough bite to balance the richness.
- Parmesan cheese: The star crunch—melts, crisps, and adds umami richness.
- Fresh parsley: Bright, herbaceous finish that refreshes each bite.
Make It Your Way
I love playing around with the seasoning here — sometimes I swap smoked paprika for a bit of chili powder if I want a touch of heat. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs or even swap parsley for fresh thyme for an earthy twist.
- Variation: I’ve tried adding a sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving for a fresh citrus punch that brightens the dish.
- Dietary tweak: For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Seasonal swap: Rosemary or thyme works wonderfully in fall and winter to give cozy herb notes.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes with Care
First, wash your 1 1/2 pounds of fingerling potatoes and cut them in half lengthwise. Cutting lengthwise gives you that long, elegant shape that crisps up beautifully. Toss them with olive oil, kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until every piece is coated evenly. I like to use my hands here — it helps me feel if the coating is just right.
Step 2: Roast Cut-Side Down for Crispy Goodness
Arrange the potatoes cut-side down on a rimmed baking sheet — no crowding, please! Place them in a 400°F oven on the middle rack. Roast for about 30 minutes until the bottoms turn a gorgeous golden-brown. Peak beneath a potato to make sure it’s developing a crust before moving on. This step is key to getting that addictive crisp texture.
Step 3: Add Parmesan and Flip
While the potatoes roast, grate about 2 ounces of Parmesan cheese and finely chop 5 to 6 sprigs of fresh parsley. After the 30 minutes, carefully flip the potatoes over using tongs or a thin spatula so the cut sides face up. Generously sprinkle the Parmesan on top — don’t be shy! It’s totally fine if some cheese falls onto the pan; it crisps up deliciously there, too.
Step 4: Finish Roasting for Cheese Crispness
Pop the pan back into the oven for another 10 minutes or until the Parmesan is melted, golden-brown, and crispy. Keep an eye on it after 8 minutes to avoid burning, especially if your oven runs hot. Once out, sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top—this adds a lovely fresh note and vibrant color.
Tips from My Kitchen
- Choose the right potatoes: Fingerlings are perfect here—they roast evenly and hold up well without too much moisture.
- Don’t skip the cut-side down step: It’s the secret to that crave-worthy crispy bottom and caramelization.
- Freshly grate your Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent browning and crisping.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet: It catches the cheese drippings and prevents mess in your oven.
How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
I stick with fresh parsley because it adds color and freshness without overpowering the cheese’s nuttiness. Sometimes, I like to toss on a light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for an extra bright kick.
Side Dishes
This potato dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted pork loin, or even a juicy steak. I’ve also served it alongside sautéed green beans or a simple mixed greens salad to balance out the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to plate these potatoes in a rustic cast iron skillet, topped with extra fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan curls. It’s a conversation starter and looks so inviting on the table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep any leftover Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They usually last 3-4 days for me and still taste great reheated.
Freezing
I’ve found freezing crispy roasted potatoes can be tricky because they may lose their texture. However, if you must, flash-freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, but plan to use them in casseroles or soups rather than as a crisp side.
Reheating
To keep the crispiness when reheating, I pop leftovers into a 375°F oven on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes rather than the microwave. This helps revive that golden crunch and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but fingerling potatoes are ideal for their size and texture. You can substitute baby Yukon gold or new potatoes, but keep in mind they might have a slightly different cooking time and texture.
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How do I get the potatoes crispy without burning the Parmesan?
Keep an eye on the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of roasting when the Parmesan is melting. If your oven tends to run hot, consider lowering the temperature slightly or rotating the pan halfway through to ensure even browning.
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Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before roasting?
Absolutely! You can season and toss the potatoes in oil and spices earlier in the day, then roast just before serving. This makes it a great recipe for entertaining with less last-minute stress.
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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crunchy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that feels both fancy and effortless, and this Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe hits that mark every time for me. I hope you’ll give it a try and find it as comforting and flavorful as I do. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a special gathering, these potatoes just bring everyone together—and that’s what cooking’s all about, isn’t it?
PrintParmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parsley Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful Parmesan Potatoes roasted to perfection with smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh parsley for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 1/2 pounds fingerling potatoes (30 to 34 potatoes)
Seasonings and Toppings
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 ounces Parmesan cheese
- 5 to 6 sprigs fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare the potatoes: Cut the fingerling potatoes in half lengthwise. Place them in a roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and arrange the potatoes cut-side down in a single layer.
- Roast the potatoes: Roast the potatoes until the bottoms start to turn golden-brown, about 30 minutes.
- Grate cheese and chop parsley: While the potatoes roast, finely grate the Parmesan cheese and finely chop the parsley leaves to get about 2 tablespoons.
- Flip and add cheese: Carefully flip each potato cut-side up using tongs or a thin metal spatula. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes (some cheese may fall onto the pan).
- Finish roasting: Roast the potatoes for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is crisp and golden-brown and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the roasted potatoes with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fingerling potatoes or small new potatoes for best results.
- Make sure to roast the potatoes cut-side down initially to get a nice golden crust.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan so the potatoes roast evenly.
- If fresh parsley is unavailable, you may use dried parsley but add it after cooking to preserve flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg