These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Halves are roasted until tender and golden with a perfectly crispy Parmesan crust. Yukon Gold baby potatoes are coated in garlic butter, olive oil, and Italian seasonings, then roasted cut-side down over freshly grated Parmesan for maximum crispiness and flavor.
Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat for easier cleanup.
Prepare the potatoes:
Wash and thoroughly dry the potatoes. Cut each potato in half. Drying the potatoes well helps them roast and crisp instead of steaming.
Make the garlic butter mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the potatoes:
Place the potato halves in a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the potatoes and gently toss until they are evenly coated.
Add the Parmesan:
Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan evenly over the prepared baking sheet. Arrange the potatoes cut-side down directly on top of the Parmesan, pressing each potato gently into the cheese so it adheres to the surface.
Roast:
Roast for 35–45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the Parmesan bottoms are deeply golden and crispy.
Rest before serving:
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the potatoes to rest for about 5 minutes. Carefully loosen them from the pan with a thin spatula.
Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, additional Parmesan, and fresh thyme. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while the potatoes are hot and crispy.
Notes
Dry the potatoes well: Excess moisture can prevent the potatoes from getting beautifully crispy.
Freshly grated Parmesan works best: It melts and crisps more evenly than pre-shredded Parmesan.
Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the potatoes enough room so they roast rather than steam.
Cut-side down is key: Placing the potatoes directly on the Parmesan creates that delicious crispy cheese crust.
Use a thin spatula: Allowing the potatoes to rest for a few minutes makes them easier to lift without breaking the Parmesan crust.
For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a subtle kick.
Serve immediately: These potatoes are at their crispiest straight from the oven.