Parmesan Baked Potatoes

—

### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the potatoes from sticking.

2. **Prepare the potatoes**: Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. This will prevent them from bursting in the oven.

3. **Coat with olive oil**: Drizzle the olive oil over each potato, rubbing it evenly to coat the skin. This will help create a crispy exterior as the potatoes bake.

4. **Add the Parmesan mixture**: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried rosemary (or thyme), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each potato, pressing it gently into the skin so it sticks.

5. **Bake the potatoes**: Place the prepared potatoes on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until the skins are golden brown and crispy. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the potatoes—the insides should be soft and fluffy.

6. **Serve and enjoy**: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately. These Parmesan Baked Potatoes are perfect as a side dish or even as a snack.

—

### Why These Potatoes Are So Special

What sets **Parmesan Baked Potatoes** apart from the standard baked potato is the crispy, cheesy coating. The combination of grated Parmesan and olive oil creates a golden crust that’s full of flavor, while the inside stays perfectly tender and fluffy. The addition of garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs enhances the natural flavor of the potato, making every bite a savory treat.

These potatoes are the perfect balance of crispy and soft, with just the right amount of cheesy goodness. They complement a wide variety of main dishes, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad, these Parmesan Baked Potatoes will elevate your meal to new heights.

—

### Tips & Variations:
– **Make it spicy**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture for a little heat.
– **Try different cheeses**: While Parmesan gives these potatoes their signature flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Romano, Asiago, or even Cheddar for a different twist.
– **Herb variations**: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor. Fresh thyme, oregano, or basil work wonderfully in this recipe.
– **Load them up**: Turn these Parmesan Baked Potatoes into a full meal by topping them with sour cream, crispy bacon, chives, or even a sprinkle of extra cheese.
– **Make them mini**: For smaller portions, cut the potatoes into halves or quarters and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

—

### A Perfect Side for Any Meal

**Parmesan Baked Potatoes** are a side dish that’s sure to impress with minimal effort. The crispy Parmesan crust adds a gourmet touch to the classic baked potato, making it a perfect complement to almost any main course. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or a special holiday feast, these potatoes will quickly become a go-to recipe that everyone loves.

So, next time you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful side dish, give **Parmesan Baked Potatoes** a try. They’re crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious—a true crowd-pleaser!

—

Would you like a printable version of this recipe or suggestions for a main course to pair with these tasty potatoes?