Pommes de Terre à l’Ail et au Parmesan, or Garlic Parmesan Potatoes, is a French-inspired dish that is perfect for anyone who loves the comforting combination of tender potatoes, roasted garlic, and the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is an excellent side dish for any meal, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors with every bite. Whether served alongside a hearty steak, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad, this dish adds a burst of savory goodness to any table.
The potatoes are roasted to crispy perfection with garlic and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, creating a deliciously aromatic and flavorful experience. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is simple to prepare yet guaranteed to impress your family and guests. It’s a go-to recipe for those who appreciate classic flavors with a modern twist, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Simple Yet Flavorful
This dish combines the simplicity of roasted potatoes with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan, making it an easy yet delicious side dish.
2. Perfectly Crispy Potatoes
The roasting technique results in crispy edges and tender centers, creating the ideal texture that complements the richness of the garlic and cheese.
3. Quick and Easy
This recipe is quick to prepare and doesn’t require any fancy cooking techniques, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
4. Versatile
These potatoes pair wonderfully with a wide range of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options, and can be adjusted to suit any flavor profile.
5. Great for Meal Prep
Pommes de Terre à l’Ail et au Parmesan can be easily made in advance and reheated, making them a convenient side for meal prepping or leftovers.
Ingredients
- Potatoes (preferably small or baby potatoes)
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Lemon zest (optional, for extra freshness)
Variations
- Cheese Variations: If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheese flavor.
- Herb Variations: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil to elevate the herbal flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and extra flavor.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan option, use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan and opt for a plant-based oil or butter.
- Garlic Butter Version: If you prefer a buttery taste, substitute olive oil with melted butter for an extra rich flavor.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures the potatoes get crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized pieces. If using baby potatoes, you can leave them whole or cut them in halves or quarters depending on their size. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they crisp up in the oven.
Step 3: Toss the Potatoes in Olive Oil and Seasonings
In a large mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings such as oregano or Italian seasoning. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated.
Step 4: Roast the Potatoes
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add Parmesan
Once the potatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the potatoes to coat them in the cheese while they’re still hot.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For an added touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the potatoes for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Optionally, you can also zest a little lemon over the top for some citrus brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Even Cooking: Make sure to cut the potatoes into even sizes to ensure they cook uniformly. This will help all the potatoes crisp up at the same time.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the potatoes plenty of space on the baking sheet so they roast rather than steam. If necessary, use two baking sheets for better results.
- Crispier Potatoes: For extra crispiness, toss the potatoes in the oil mixture a second time halfway through the roasting process.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but you can also use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
- Roast Longer for More Crispiness: If you like your potatoes extra crispy, feel free to roast them for a few additional minutes until they reach your desired crispness.
How to Serve
Pommes de Terre à l’Ail et au Parmesan is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of meals. Serve them with roasted meats, such as chicken, steak, or lamb, or enjoy them as a vegetarian main dish with a side salad. These potatoes are also great for serving at a gathering or barbecue, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Freezing
While it’s not recommended to freeze roasted potatoes with cheese, you can freeze the plain roasted potatoes before adding the Parmesan. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat by baking at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes before adding cheese.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven or a skillet to maintain their crispy texture. Simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until hot and crispy.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use russet potatoes, red potatoes, or fingerling potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
3. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
While freshly grated Parmesan cheese is ideal for the best flavor, you can use pre-grated Parmesan if necessary. Just keep in mind that it may not melt as smoothly as fresh.
4. What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder, but fresh garlic provides a more aromatic flavor.
5. Can I add other herbs to this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil would all be great additions to this dish, giving it a unique and fragrant flavor profile.
6. Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil, but olive oil provides a rich flavor that complements the garlic and Parmesan.
7. How can I make these potatoes spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the oil mixture before roasting for an added kick.
8. Can I make these potatoes crispy without cheese?
Yes! You can still achieve crispy roasted potatoes without the Parmesan, but the cheese adds a delightful richness and flavor that completes the dish.
9. Are these potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
10. Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
While fresh potatoes give the best results, you can use pre-cooked potatoes if you’re short on time. Just ensure they are firm enough to handle the roasting process.
Conclusion
Pommes de Terre à l’Ail et au Parmesan is a flavorful, easy-to-make side dish that brings together the perfect combination of crispy potatoes, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a casual get-together, this dish will always impress. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet touch, and with its versatility and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any meal.
PrintPommes de Terre à l’Ail et au Parmesan Recipe Guide
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pommes de Terre à l’Ail et au Parmesan are golden, crispy potatoes roasted with aromatic garlic and topped with rich Parmesan cheese. The perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and makes a delicious side for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds (700g) baby potatoes (or small potatoes of your choice)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and cut them in half (or quarters if they’re larger). You can also leave them whole if they are very small.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated in the oil and seasoning.
- Roast the Potatoes:
- Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the cut sides are facing down to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You can check doneness by poking them with a fork.
- Add Parmesan:
- Once the potatoes are crispy and tender, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes, tossing gently to coat the potatoes with the melted cheese.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
- Serve the Pommes de Terre à l’Ail et au Parmesan hot as a side dish with your favorite main course!
Notes
- Potato types: Baby potatoes work great for this recipe, but you can use any waxy potato variety such as Yukon Golds for a creamy texture. Russet potatoes can also be used for a fluffier inside.
- Garlic flavor: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves in their skins with the potatoes, then squeeze the roasted garlic out and mix it into the potatoes after they are cooked.
- Extra Parmesan: For extra cheesy goodness, you can sprinkle more Parmesan over the potatoes halfway through roasting or top with some mozzarella or Gruyère for a gooey melt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: French, Mediterranean
Keywords: garlic Parmesan potatoes, roasted potatoes, crispy garlic potatoes, pommes de terre à l’ail, easy potato recipe, side dish potatoes