Easy Parmesan Crusted Potatoes – Viral TikTok Recipe

Crispy, cheesy, and totally addictive, these TikTok Parmesan Crusted Roasted Potatoes are taking the internet and your kitchen by storm. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform baby potatoes into golden bites of perfection. The secret is in the buttery Parmesan crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven while keeping the inside soft and tender. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or party appetizer, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love TikTok Parmesan Crusted Roasted Potatoes

• Crispy, golden crust in every bite – These potatoes bake up with a crunchy Parmesan coating that’s packed with flavor. The crosshatch cut helps the cheesy butter mixture soak in and crisp up perfectly. Each bite has that irresistible golden crunch that makes these go viral-worthy. You won’t be able to stop at just one!

• Creamy inside, crispy outside – While the outside is crusty and cheesy, the inside stays soft and tender. This perfect contrast in texture makes the potatoes extra satisfying. It’s a delicious surprise in every bite! These are way better than regular roasted potatoes.

• Super simple ingredients – You only need a handful of pantry staples to make this recipe. No fancy tools, no complicated steps, just everyday ingredients that turn into something amazing. Parmesan, butter, and potatoes never tasted this good. It’s budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing.

• No flipping or babysitting needed – Once the potatoes go in the oven, there’s nothing else to do. No need to flip or stir, the oven does all the work. You’ll get perfectly crispy potatoes with hardly any effort. Set it and forget it!

• Perfect for any occasion – These potatoes are versatile enough for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or game day snacks. They look fancy but are secretly so easy to make. Everyone will think you spent hours in the kitchen. Just try them once and they’ll become a staple!

Ingredients For TikTok Parmesan Crusted Roasted Potatoes

• Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes – These small potatoes are naturally creamy and hold their shape well when roasted. The small size makes them perfect for halving and scoring.

• Unsalted Butter – Adds rich flavor and helps the Parmesan stick and crisp up on the bottom of the pan.

• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Creates the crispy, golden crust that makes these potatoes so irresistible. Freshly grated works best for that perfect melt and crunch.

• Garlic and Herb Seasoning – Adds savory depth and seasoning without needing multiple spices. It gives a delicious herby flavor in every bite.

• Kosher Salt – Enhances all the flavors and helps bring out the cheesiness of the Parmesan.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make TikTok Parmesan Crusted Roasted Potatoes

• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish or Nonstick Pan – This gives the potatoes plenty of space to roast and develop a crisp bottom.

• Measuring Spoons – For precise amounts of seasoning and salt.

• Measuring Cup – To measure the Parmesan cheese easily.

• Spatula – Helps lift the potatoes from the pan without breaking the crispy cheese crust.

How To Make TikTok Parmesan Crusted Roasted Potatoes

• Preheat your oven and melt the butter right in the baking dish to make things easy and mess-free.

• While the butter is melting, slice the baby potatoes in half and gently score the flat side with a crisscross pattern.

• Once the butter is melted, mix in the Parmesan, garlic and herb seasoning, and salt to make a cheesy paste.

• Coat the cut side of each potato with the Parmesan mixture so it forms a flavorful crust while baking.

• Place the potatoes cut-side down in the baking dish and bake until golden brown and tender inside.

• Let them sit for a few minutes after baking to help the crust firm up, then use a spatula to remove and serve.

Serving Suggestions

• These potatoes go perfectly with roasted chicken breast, air-fried steak, or oven-baked salmon for a complete meal.
• Serve them on a platter with toothpicks and a few dipping sauces for an easy crowd-pleaser.
• Pair with homemade ranch, sour cream, or green onion dip to take the flavor to the next level.
• A little parsley, chives, or green onions on top adds a pop of color and extra flavor.
• These crispy potatoes look fancy but are super simple to make, perfect for impressing guests during parties and holidays.

Tips For Success

• Scoring the potatoes is one of the key steps you don’t want to skip. When you lightly cut a crisscross pattern into the cut side of the potato, it helps the buttery Parmesan mixture grip the surface better. This not only gives you a crispier crust but also allows the flavor to really sink into the potato as it roasts. A few quick slices make a big difference in both texture and taste.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-shredded or powdered kind. Freshly grated cheese melts and browns better, giving you that signature golden crust that makes this recipe so addictive. The pre-packaged cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent even melting, which can lead to uneven or soggy results. If possible, grate it right before using for the freshest flavor.
• Let the butter melt completely in the oven before adding the cheese and seasoning. This ensures the butter is hot enough to mix smoothly with the Parmesan and helps the paste spread evenly across the potatoes. Giving it a minute or two to cool slightly will make it easier to stir in the other ingredients without clumping. A smooth, even paste means a more consistent crust on each potato.
• Be generous when spreading the Parmesan mixture onto the cut side of the potatoes. Don’t just dab it on, really press it in to help it stick. You want enough of the cheesy mixture to create a thick layer that will bake into that deliciously crispy bottom. This step is what takes the potatoes from ordinary to unforgettable.
• Once baked, let the potatoes sit in the pan for about 5 minutes before trying to lift them out. This helps the crust set and firm up, making it easier to remove without tearing. Use a thin spatula and gently loosen them from the pan for the best presentation. If you rush this step, the crispy layer might stick or fall apart.
• Make sure the potatoes are all cut to a similar size so they roast evenly. If some are much larger than others, they may need extra time to soften or could end up undercooked. Try to choose uniformly sized baby potatoes when buying, or trim a few down as needed to match. Consistent sizing ensures perfect results across the entire pan.

Variations And Substitutions

• If you don’t have baby Yukon Gold potatoes, you can use red potatoes or small white potatoes instead. The important thing is that they’re small and can be halved easily. Even larger potatoes can work if you cut them into thick slices, just make sure they’re all roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
• For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based butter and a dairy-free parmesan alternative. Many vegan cheeses now melt and crisp up just like the real thing. Just make sure to use one that’s specifically designed for baking or melting to get the best texture. The results may vary slightly, but you’ll still get that delicious cheesy crust.
• Want to add some heat? Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the Parmesan mixture. You can also try seasoning the potatoes with smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky twist. These bold flavors pair really well with the richness of the cheese and butter.
• If you’re watching your sodium, you can reduce the salt or use a salt-free garlic and herb seasoning blend. The Parmesan already adds a salty kick, so the flavor will still shine through even with a lighter hand on the seasoning. You can also use fresh garlic and chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme if you prefer a more natural flavor.
• For extra crunch, try adding a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the Parmesan mixture. It gives the bottom an even more textured, golden crust. Just be aware that this will no longer be gluten-free if you use regular breadcrumbs, though gluten-free versions work just as well.
• You can also turn these into a loaded potato snack by topping them after baking with shredded cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, or green onions. It’s a fun way to turn a simple side into a hearty appetizer. Great for game days or family movie nights!
• This recipe is easy to adapt and experiment with, so don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings, cheeses, or even dipping sauces. Whether you keep it classic or mix it up, it’s going to be delicious.

Storage and Reheating

• If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with these crispy bites!), you can store TikTok Parmesan Crusted Roasted Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent steam from softening the crust.
• To reheat and keep them crispy, place the potatoes in the air fryer or oven at 375°F for about 5–7 minutes. This helps bring back that golden crunch on the bottom. You can also reheat them in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. While the microwave works in a pinch, it will soften the crispy layer, so it’s best avoided unless you’re short on time.
• If you plan to make them ahead of time for a party, bake them as usual, let them cool, and then reheat in the oven right before serving. This will restore the crispy texture and keep them tasting fresh and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can! These potatoes can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat them in the oven or air fryer just before serving. This makes them a great option for meal prep, parties, or holidays when you want to do the cooking in advance.

Do I have to use freshly grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is strongly recommended for the best results. Pre-shredded or powdered cheese doesn’t melt or crisp up the same way and can result in a soggy or uneven crust. Grating it yourself gives the potatoes that golden, crispy finish that makes this recipe so addictive. If you’re short on time, look for high-quality pre-grated Parmesan in the refrigerated section.

What if I don’t have garlic and herb seasoning?

No problem! You can make your own by combining garlic powder with dried herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme. Even a simple mix of garlic powder and Italian seasoning will do the trick. Feel free to get creative with the spices based on what you have in your pantry.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can swap baby Yukon Golds with baby red potatoes or small white potatoes. Just make sure the potatoes are similar in size so they roast evenly. If you’re using larger potatoes, cut them into thick slices or wedges before scoring and roasting. The texture and flavor will still be delicious with other varieties.

How do I get the crust to stay on the potatoes?

Make sure to score the potatoes with a crosshatch pattern and press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto the cut side. This helps the cheesy paste grip the potato and form a solid crust during baking. Also, avoid moving the potatoes once they’re in the pan, this allows the crust to set properly. Letting them rest for a few minutes after baking also helps the crust firm up before lifting them out.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free or dairy-free?

Absolutely! The base recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you skip breadcrumbs or use a certified gluten-free version. For dairy-free, just swap the butter and Parmesan for plant-based alternatives. There are several vegan cheeses that melt and crisp nicely, just check the label to make sure it’s designed for baking or melting.

What should I serve with these potatoes?

These roasted potatoes go with almost anything, chicken, steak, fish, or even veggie burgers. They’re also perfect as a party appetizer with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or garlic aioli. You can even top them with shredded cheese, bacon, or green onions for a loaded potato twist. Their crispy texture and cheesy flavor make them a hit at any meal.

Other Easy Potato Recipes

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup – This hearty ham and potato soup is rich, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors for the perfect cozy meal.

Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole – This cheesy hashbrown breakfast casserole with ham is an easy make-ahead dish everyone will love in the morning.

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes – These creamy mashed potatoes are bursting with bold roasted garlic flavor and make the ultimate side dish.

Baby Potatoes with Creamed Peas – Tender baby potatoes and sweet peas are coated in a velvety cream sauce for a classic, comforting side.

Fried Potatoes with Tomatoes – Crispy pan-fried potatoes are tossed with juicy tomatoes for a quick and flavorful skillet side dish.

Twice Baked Potatoes in the Air Fryer – These cheesy air fryer twice baked potatoes are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loaded with flavor.

Baked Greek Lemon Potatoes – These authentic Greek lemon potatoes are baked until golden and crispy, soaked in a zesty lemon-garlic marinade.

More Appetizer Recipes

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