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Parmesan Baked Potatoes: The Ultimate Crispy Recipe

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Crispy-skinned baked potatoes with a flavorful herb and spice rub, topped with melted, golden-brown Parmesan cheese. A simple yet satisfying side dish or vegetarian main course!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and dried
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, bacon bits

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Position oven rack in the middle.
  2. Prepare Potatoes: Scrub potatoes thoroughly and pat completely dry.
  3. Score Potatoes: Using a sharp knife, make shallow crosshatch cuts on top of each potato.
  4. Make Oil Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Season Potatoes: Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush generously with the olive oil mixture, getting into the crosshatch crevices. Season liberally with salt and pepper.
  6. Bake: Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  7. Cool Slightly: Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  8. Open Potatoes: Gently press down on the center of each potato to open up the crosshatch pattern.
  9. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle each potato generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
  10. Broil: Turn on broiler. Place baking sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese is melted and golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  11. Cool and Garnish: Remove from broiler and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
  12. Serve: Serve immediately with optional toppings like sour cream, chives, and bacon bits.

Notes

  • Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are best for their high starch content, resulting in a fluffy interior.
  • Scoring: Don’t skip the crosshatch; it helps with even cooking and flavor penetration.
  • Drying: Thoroughly drying the potatoes is key to crispy skin.
  • Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season generously!
  • Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting.
  • Broiling: Watch the broiler closely to prevent burning.
  • Toppings: Get creative with your favorite toppings!
  • Make Ahead: Scrub and score potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the refrigerator. Prepare the oil mixture up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Storage: Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish, or as a vegetarian main course. Pair with a simple salad for a complete meal.
  • Variations:
    • Garlic Parmesan: Add minced garlic to the olive oil mixture.
    • Spicy Parmesan: Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
    • Herb Parmesan: Use a combination of your favorite herbs.
    • Loaded Parmesan: Top with chili, cheese sauce, or pulled pork.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/parmesan-baked-potatoes/