If you’re searching for a side dish that effortlessly combines comfort, flavor, and a little bit of wow factor, look no further than this Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe. Imagine tender red potatoes that are perfectly roasted to a crisp golden edge, infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, then drizzled with nutty, luscious browned butter and topped with sharp Parmesan cheese. This dish brings a perfect balance of textures and bold, savory flavors that make ordinary potatoes extraordinary—ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave something satisfying and deliciously simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, turning humble potatoes into a delectable masterpiece. From the fragrant herbs to the rich butter, every element plays a crucial role in creating that unforgettable taste.
- Olive oil (1/4-1/3 cup): Helps create a crispy exterior while adding a fruity undertone.
- Garlic (6 cloves, finely chopped): Packs the dish with aromatic depth and that irresistible savory punch.
- Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle freshness that brightens the potatoes.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds an earthy herbaceous note that complements the butter.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings a slightly peppery and warm flavor to round out the herb mix.
- Cracked black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds mild heat and depth.
- Parmesan cheese (3/4 cup, freshly grated): Melts slightly during roasting, giving a salty, nutty crust.
- Red potatoes (3 pounds, washed and quartered): The star ingredient that roasts up crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Cooked until browned for that irresistible nutty aroma and richness.
- Fresh parsley (4 tablespoons, finely chopped): Sprinkled on top for color and a fresh herbal finish.
How to Make Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF (200°C). This high heat is important for achieving those wonderfully crisp edges everyone loves. Grease a large baking sheet with either non-stick spray or a touch of olive oil to keep the potatoes from sticking and to promote even roasting.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil with finely chopped garlic, salt, dried parsley, thyme, oregano, cracked black pepper, and the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well so the cheese begins to absorb the oil and the herbs and garlic are evenly distributed. If the mixture seems too thick because of the Parmesan, add a little more olive oil to keep the coating nice and workable.
Step 3: Coat the Potatoes
Take those beautiful red potato quarters and toss them into the herb and cheese mixture, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. This coating is what forms the base of your crispy, flavorful roasted potatoes. The cheese and herbs create a crust while roasting, locking in flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Arrange your coated potatoes in one layer on the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out so no slices overlap. Pop them into the preheated oven and roast for about 45-50 minutes. Every 15 minutes, use tongs or a spatula to turn the potatoes gently, so they brown evenly on all sides. For an extra crispy finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-4 minutes, watching closely to get that perfect golden brown crust without burning.
Step 5: Brown the Butter
While the potatoes roast, melt unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent burning and allow the butter to foam. It will gradually change from yellow to a rich golden brown and give off a delicious nutty aroma. This browned butter is the secret weapon that elevates this potato dish to next-level status.
Step 6: Combine the Magic
Once your potatoes are roasted to crispy, golden perfection, remove them from the oven and immediately pour the browned butter over them. Give everything a gentle toss to coat each piece in that luscious butter and the flavorful pan bits. Then season with a little extra salt and pepper if needed, and finish off by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley is all you really need to brighten and freshen this dish. Some like to add a few shavings of Parmesan just before serving to intensify the cheesy experience. A light squeeze of lemon over the top can also add an unexpected but delightful brightness that balances the rich browned butter.
Side Dishes
This Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, steak, or pork. It also holds its own alongside sautéed greens or a fresh crisp salad for a lighter meal. Because the potatoes are so flavor-packed, they can easily be the star side of your dinner plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or a family gathering, serve these potatoes in a warm ceramic serving dish sprinkled with extra Parmesan and parsley. Stack them for height or serve them in small individual ramekins to add a bit of elegance. They even make an amazing filling for a baked potato bar alongside sour cream, chives, and bacon bits.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe taste fantastic the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them loosely covered to maintain some crispness but avoid sogginess.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the potatoes may soften upon thawing. If you want to freeze leftovers, flash freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Use within 1 month, and reheat directly from frozen for best results.
Reheating
To bring these potatoes back to life, reheat in the oven at 375ºF (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them crispy on the outside and warm throughout. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that golden crust, as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are perfect for roasting because of their waxy texture, Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes will also work beautifully, offering different textures and flavors.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
You can skip the Parmesan and use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of butter for browning. Nutritional yeast can stand in for the cheesy flavor, although it won’t create the exact same crust.
How do I know when the butter is perfectly browned?
Watch for a golden brown color and a delicious nutty aroma. The butter will foam up then subside, and brown bits will appear on the bottom of the pan. Don’t wait too long or it will burn quickly.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before roasting?
You can toss the potatoes in the olive oil, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan mixture up to a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have all the herbs listed?
Use what you have on hand! Thyme and parsley are the most impactful, but oregano is optional. Fresh herbs can replace dried in a pinch, just use about three times the amount.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe this Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe is a game changer in the world of easy yet extraordinary side dishes. It’s full of personality and rich, comforting flavors that bring a smile every time. Give it a try the next time you want to impress your loved ones with minimal fuss but maximum taste—you might just find it becomes a beloved staple on your table as it has for me!
Print
Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and infused with a rich, nutty flavor from browned butter and aromatic herbs. Perfect as a flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 1/4–1/3 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, fresh grated
- 3 pounds red potatoes, washed and quartered
Browned Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400ºF (200°C). Grease a large baking sheet with non-stick spray or olive oil and set aside to prepare for roasting.
- Prepare potato coating: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, garlic, salt, dried parsley, thyme, oregano, cracked black pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients. Add more olive oil if needed to prevent dryness caused by the cheese absorption.
- Coat the potatoes: Toss the quartered red potatoes thoroughly in the prepared mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful blend.
- Roast the potatoes: Spread the coated potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes, turning the potatoes carefully every 15 minutes using tongs or a spatula to ensure even browning. For an extra crispy finish, optionally broil for 2-4 minutes until golden brown to your liking.
- Brown the butter: While the potatoes roast, place 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a small pot or skillet over medium heat. Stir continuously and swirl the pan occasionally to cook the butter evenly without splattering.
- Finish browned butter: Watch as the butter foams and its color changes from yellow to tan to a rich golden brown. When a nutty aroma develops, immediately remove from heat and stir lightly to lift the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Combine and serve: Pour the browned butter evenly over the roasted potatoes. Season with additional salt and cracked black pepper if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Use red potatoes for the best texture and roasting results.
- Turning the potatoes every 15 minutes ensures even browning and crispiness.
- Browned butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the Parmesan and herb seasoning.
- For extra crispiness, broil the potatoes briefly after roasting, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Freshly grated Parmesan works best for flavor and melting quality.
