My grandmother taught me this delightful and comforting potato dish that has become a staple for dinner in our home. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that transforms basic ingredients into a mouth-watering meal. The combination of crispy panko breadcrumbs, savory Parmesan cheese, and fragrant garlic creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will make this dish a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for special occasions, this recipe is sure to satisfy and impress. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to make this flavorful dinner!
Ingredients
- 3 yellow potatoes
- 60 g (2.1 oz) panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 30-40 g (1-1.4 oz) Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 50 g (1.8 oz) olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Start by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Wash and peel the yellow potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized wedges or slices, depending on your preference.
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Toss the potato wedges in the bowl, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Add the Olive Oil and Garlic:
- Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned potatoes and add the minced garlic.
- Mix well so that the oil and garlic are evenly distributed among the potato pieces. This will help the potatoes achieve a crispy texture when baked.
- Arrange for Baking:
- Arrange the coated potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even baking and crispiness.
- Bake the Potatoes:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Flip the potatoes halfway through the baking time to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
- Serve:
- Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Transfer the crispy Parmesan potatoes to a serving platter. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, crispy, and savory potato dish!
Cooking Tips
- Uniform Slicing: Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Freshness of Ingredients: Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor. If you prefer, you can also use garlic powder instead of minced garlic for a smoother texture.
- Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispiness, you can soak the potato wedges in cold water for about 30 minutes before seasoning. This helps remove excess starch.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish not only delights your taste buds but also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Potatoes: A great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. They are also a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy.
- Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil is beneficial for heart health.
- Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a good amount of calcium and protein to the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for any level of cooking expertise.
- Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and paprika adds a rich and savory flavor that enhances the natural taste of the potatoes.
- Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs and olive oil create a crispy exterior while keeping the potatoes tender inside.
- Versatile: This dish can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even as a snack.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines the simplicity of basic ingredients with a method that enhances their natural flavors. The panko breadcrumbs provide a light and crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender interior of the potatoes. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, umami flavor, while the garlic and paprika give the dish a depth of taste and a slight kick. Baking the potatoes in olive oil ensures they become golden and crispy without the need for deep frying, making this a healthier alternative.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Crispy Parmesan Potato Dinner is a delightful dish that brings the comfort and warmth of home-cooked food to your table. Its simplicity, combined with rich flavors and textures, makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Happy cooking!