Introduction
Transform ordinary potatoes into something extraordinary with these Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan – a side dish so good it might just upstage your main course. Imagine golden potato wedges with shatteringly crisp edges, nutty browned butter undertones, and a snowfall of salty Parmesan that forms the most irresistible crust. This is potato perfection achieved through three simple but genius techniques: double roasting, browned butter basting, and a Parmesan finish that creates magic in your oven.
Why These Potatoes Will Become Your Go-To Side
Next-level crispy – double roasting method ensures perfect texture
Complex flavor – nutty browned butter elevates basic potatoes
Effortless elegance – fancy enough for company, easy enough for weeknights
Versatile pairing – complements everything from steak to salmon
The magic happens when the starch in the potatoes interacts with the milk solids in the browned butter, creating an almost fried-like crust without any actual frying. The Parmesan then melts into this crust, forming crispy cheese frico-like edges that are utterly addictive.
Ingredients for Potato Perfection
Main Components
- 2 lbs baby potatoes (halved or quartered)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
The Parmesan Finish
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Flaky sea salt for finishing
Chef’s Tip: Use a microplane for the Parmesan – it melts more evenly
Step-by-Step Cooking Method
1. First Roast (The Steam Phase)
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper
- Arrange cut-side down on parchment-lined sheet
- Roast 25 minutes until just tender
2. Browned Butter Infusion
- Melt butter in skillet over medium heat
- Swirl constantly until golden brown (3-4 minutes)
- Remove from heat, stir in garlic and thyme
3. Second Roast (The Crisp Phase)
- Flip potatoes cut-side up
- Drizzle with browned butter mixture
- Return to oven for 15 minutes
4. Parmesan Crust Formation
- Sprinkle Parmesan evenly over potatoes
- Roast 5-7 more minutes until cheese melts and crisps
- Finish with lemon zest and flaky salt
Chef’s Secrets for Maximum Crisp
Dry potatoes well before roasting
Don’t crowd the pan – space is crucial for crispness
Watch butter closely – it burns easily
Grate Parmesan fine for even melting
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings:
- Herb-roasted chicken
- Pan-seared ribeye
- Grilled salmon fillets
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve in cast iron skillet
- Garnish with extra thyme
- Offer lemon wedges on side
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using pre-grated Parmesan (contains anti-caking agents)
Skipping the first roast (potatoes won’t get creamy inside)
Burning the butter (creates bitter flavor)
Overcrowding the pan (steams instead of roasts)
Creative Variations
For Different Occasions:
- Truffle version: Add truffle oil at the end
- Spicy twist: Include chili flakes with the butter
- Herb garden: Mix rosemary and sage with thyme
FAQs
Q: Can I use larger potatoes?
A: Yes, but cut into uniform 1.5″ pieces for even cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Re-crisp in air fryer or 400°F oven for 5 minutes.
Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Use olive oil and nutritional yeast instead.
Q: Why two-stage roasting?
A: First cooks the interior, second crisps the exterior.
Conclusion
These Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan represent potato nirvana – achieving that elusive perfect balance of creamy interior and shatteringly crisp exterior. The nutty depth of browned butter combined with the salty crunch of Parmesan creates a side dish so good, your guests might forget there’s a main course.
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Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan: The Ultimate Crispy Side Dish
- Total Time: 35 mins
Description
Elevate your side dish game with these browned butter roasted potatoes. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with savory Parmesan, they are the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until the butter begins to brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it.
Once the butter is browned, remove it from the heat and stir in the minced garlic.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with the browned butter and garlic mixture until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through cooking.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Toss the potatoes gently to ensure they are evenly coated with Parmesan and parsley.
Serve hot as a delicious side dish to complement your favorite main course.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
