There’s something about a warm, cheesy side dish that just makes my heart sing, don’t you think? Today, I want to share one of my absolute favorite recipes: Crockpot Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. Honestly, these little gems are a game-changer! Nothing screams cozy comfort food quite like tender potatoes enveloped in a crispy Parmesan shell.
I remember the first time I made these potatoes; it was at a family gathering. I tossed everything into my trusty Crockpot, set it, and forgot about it for a few hours. When I lifted the lid, the aroma wafting through the air was heavenly! Everyone rushed to the kitchen, and I had never seen a dish disappear so quickly! The combination of garlic, onion powder, and Italian herbs really sets the stage for a delightful experience. Let’s get into how you can make this magic happen in your kitchen!
What’s in Crockpot Parmesan Roasted Potatoes?
Baby Potatoes: These little guys are the stars of the show! I usually go for gold or red baby potatoes because they’re creamy and have a lovely texture. Plus, there’s no need to peel them!
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the seasonings stick to the potatoes. A good-quality extra virgin olive oil makes a difference, trust me!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This is where the magic happens! Parmesan adds a savory depth and a lovely crispy finish. I recommend using freshly grated cheese for the best flavor.
Garlic Powder: Because let’s be real, garlic makes everything better. It infuses the potatoes with a warm, comforting flavor.
Onion Powder: This offers a subtle sweetness that complements the garlic beautifully.
Dried Italian Herbs: I love using a robust blend of thyme, oregano, and rosemary to really bring those Italian vibes to life.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
Fresh Parsley: Just a sprinkle at the end for color and freshness. It’s all about that presentation!
Is Crockpot Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Good for You?
Now I know what you’re thinking: “Are these potatoes actually good for me?” Well, let me break it down.
Potatoes: High in potassium and fiber, baby potatoes are a great source of vitamins. The skin (which we keep on!) is where a lot of the nutrients lie.
Olive Oil: This heart-healthy fat is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good choice in moderation.
Parmesan Cheese: It brings a boost of calcium and protein, but let’s remember that it can also be high in sodium, so it’s wise to keep the sprinkle in check.
Overall, while these potatoes are indulgent with that cheesy goodness, they also have some nutritional benefits. Just balance them with a side of veggies, and you’re golden!
Ingredients List
– 2 lbs baby potatoes (gold or red)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a blend of thyme, oregano, and rosemary)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves: Approximately 6-8 as a side dish.*
How to Make Crockpot Parmesan Roasted Potatoes?
1. **Prepare the Potatoes:** Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold water. Cut any larger ones in half to ensure everything cooks evenly.
2. **Coat the Potatoes:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss the washed potatoes in the mixture until they are well coated.
3. **Add to Crockpot:** Transfer the seasoned potatoes into your Crockpot, spreading them out so they cook evenly.
4. **Cook:** Cover the Crockpot and set it on high for about 4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, until the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.
5. **Add Parmesan:** During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Cover them again to allow that cheese to melt and crisp up.
6. **Garnish and Serve:** Carefully transfer the toasted potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm—everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Potato Perfection Tips
– For a little extra zing, sprinkle some smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes over the potatoes before serving.
– If you like a mix of textures, toss in some diced bell peppers for added color and crunch.
– These potatoes pair perfectly with roasted meats, but I also love them on their own for a hearty vegetarian dinner. You can even toss them in a salad or as a filling for a warm wrap!
I can’t wait for you to try these Crockpot Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. They’re sure to become a beloved staple in your home, just like they are in mine! If you decide to whip them up, drop me a note and let me know how they turned out! Happy cooking! 🍽️
