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### Instructions for Baked Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside of the potatoes tender.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skins on adds texture and extra nutrients. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized wedges or cubes, depending on your preference. If you prefer crispy edges, wedges work best.
#### Step 3: Coat the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss the potato wedges or cubes in the mixture until they are evenly coated with the flavorful seasoning. If you’re using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic, simply add it along with the other dry seasonings.
#### Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. This allows them to crisp up evenly during baking.
#### Step 5: Bake the Potatoes
Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside when done. If you like extra crispy potatoes, you can increase the baking time by a few minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you like a little spice, you can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top. Serve the potatoes hot, and enjoy the savory, cheesy goodness.
### Why You’ll Love Baked Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
– **Crispy and Tender:** The high baking temperature ensures that the potatoes have a crispy exterior while staying soft and fluffy on the inside.
– **Simple Ingredients:** This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, but the combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs creates a flavor-packed side dish.
– **Customizable:** You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your tastes. Add more garlic for a stronger flavor or swap out the herbs for your favorites, such as rosemary or basil.
– **Versatile:** These potatoes go well with virtually any main dish, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. They can also be served as a snack or appetizer.
– **Make-Ahead Friendly:** You can prep the potatoes in advance by coating them with the seasoning mixture and storing them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. This makes them a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests.
### Tips for Perfect Baked Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
– **Cut Evenly:** Try to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. If the pieces are too small, they might burn, and if they’re too large, they’ll take longer to cook.
– **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of crisping up.
– **Use Fresh Parmesan:** Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best for this recipe, as it melts and adheres to the potatoes better than pre-shredded cheese.
– **Experiment with Spices:** Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. A sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika will add a subtle smoky flavor, and garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the savory notes.
– **Extra Crispy:** If you want extra crispy potatoes, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
### Final Thoughts
**Baked Garlic Parmesan Potatoes** are a foolproof side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With their crispy edges, tender insides, and bold garlic-Parmesan flavor, they pair perfectly with any main dish, from roasted chicken to grilled steak or even a simple salad. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or impress guests at a dinner party, these potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit.
Plus, they’re so versatile! You can add extra seasonings, adjust the level of garlic, or even try different cheeses, like Romano or Asiago, to give them your own signature twist. The possibilities are endless. Enjoy these golden, cheesy, and garlicky potatoes as a comforting and satisfying side dish that will keep everyone coming back for more!
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