Transform your dinner routine with these incredibly delicious Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes! This ultimate side dish offers a symphony of textures and flavors: irresistibly crispy on the outside, wonderfully tender and creamy on the inside, and bursting with savory goodness thanks to a golden Parmesan crust and a perfectly balanced blend of aromatic spices. Forget complicated recipes – with minimal prep, you’ll create a side that’s not just easy but guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any meal.
If you’re a true connoisseur of cheesy potato recipes, you’ll also adore my Crispy Parmesan Potatoes, my comforting Cheesy Mashed Potatoes, and my delightful Cheesy Smashed Potatoes recipe. Each offers a unique twist on this beloved vegetable, ensuring your potato cravings are always met with culinary excellence.
Seeking the perfect accompaniment to your main course? This cheesy fingerling potatoes recipe is precisely what you need! Fingerling potatoes, known for their petite, elongated shape and delicate, thin skin, are naturally buttery and ideal for roasting. When baked to crispy perfection and generously coated in a blanket of melted, savory cheese, they deliver a rich, indulgent bite that elevates any meal. From a casual weeknight dinner to an elegant holiday spread, these potatoes are a versatile and irresistible choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why these Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes will become an instant favorite in your kitchen:
- Unbeatable Crispiness: The magic truly happens in the oven, where the finely grated Parmesan cheese forms a golden, crunchy crust around each potato. This crispy exterior provides a delightful contrast to the fluffy interior, making every bite an experience to savor.
- Rich, Savory Flavor: Beyond the cheese, a carefully selected blend of spices—including fragrant garlic powder, pungent onion powder, earthy dried oregano, and vibrant paprika—infuses these potatoes with a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible. Each seasoning plays a crucial role, creating a harmonious and savory profile that’s anything but bland.
- Effortless Customization: This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily adapt it to your personal taste. Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, adjust the spice levels with a pinch of red pepper flakes, or even incorporate crumbled bacon for an extra layer of smoky indulgence. The possibilities are endless!
- Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a lively family dinner, contributing to a potluck, or preparing a festive holiday gathering, these cheesy fingerling potatoes are always a hit. Their universal appeal and comforting qualities ensure that even the pickiest eaters will reach for seconds, making them a reliable choice for any social event.
- Simple Preparation: Despite their gourmet taste and appearance, these potatoes require minimal hands-on time. Most of the work is done by your oven, leaving you free to focus on other aspects of your meal or simply relax.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting these perfectly cheesy and crispy fingerling potatoes requires just a handful of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Each component contributes to the exquisite flavor and texture of the final dish:
- Fingerling Potatoes: These small, tubular potatoes are the star of the show. Their thin skin means no peeling is required, and their firm, waxy texture holds up beautifully to roasting, yielding a creamy interior. They cook relatively quickly, making them an ideal choice for a speedy side dish.
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is essential. It helps the seasoning adhere to the potatoes, promotes even browning, and creates that desirable crispy exterior. You can also use another neutral oil like avocado or grapeseed oil if preferred.
- Parmesan Cheese: For the best results, always opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder proper melting and crisping, preventing that perfect golden crust. The sharp, salty flavor of Parmesan is key to the dish’s cheesy appeal.
- Spices and Herbs: A thoughtful blend of aromatics and spices brings these potatoes to life.
- Dried Oregano: Adds a warm, earthy, and slightly bitter Mediterranean note.
- Onion Powder: Provides a concentrated, sweet onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions.
- Garlic Powder: Delivers a mellow, savory garlic essence that complements potatoes beautifully.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Fundamental for enhancing all the other flavors and seasoning the potatoes to perfection.
- Paprika: Contributes a mild, sweet, peppery flavor and a beautiful reddish hue to the cheese crust.
- Fresh Parsley: Used for garnishing, it adds a touch of freshness and a vibrant color, brightening up the finished dish.
Ingredient Substitutions and Customization Ideas
While this recipe is fantastic as written, it’s also incredibly forgiving and open to creative modifications. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these suggestions to make it truly your own:
- Spice Level Adjustments: For those who appreciate a touch of heat, a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes mixed in with the other spices will add a delightful kick without overpowering the other flavors. You could also try a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Alternative Herbs: If you’re looking to explore different flavor profiles, consider swapping out the dried oregano. Fresh or dried rosemary offers a piney, fragrant aroma that pairs wonderfully with potatoes, while thyme provides a more delicate, earthy note. Feel free to use a combination!
- Potato Varieties: If fingerling potatoes aren’t available, other small, firm potato varieties work well. Baby potatoes (new potatoes) or Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent substitutes. Ensure you slice them into roughly similar sizes to the fingerlings to guarantee even cooking. Red potatoes are another good option, offering a slightly firmer texture.
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan is crucial for that crispy crust, you can certainly introduce other cheeses for added depth of flavor. Try using half Parmesan and half finely grated cheddar, Gruyère, or even a robust Asiago. These cheeses will melt into a gooey layer, offering a different but equally delicious cheesy experience. Just ensure at least half is Parmesan for crispiness.
- Extra Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone, or a dash of dried dill for a fresh, herbaceous touch. A small amount of nutritional yeast can also enhance the cheesy flavor.
How To Make Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
Creating these delightful cheesy roasted fingerling potatoes is straightforward, involving just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions for a perfect batch every time:
Expert Recipe Tips for Perfect Cheesy Roasted Potatoes
Achieving the perfect crispy, tender, and flavorful cheesy roasted fingerling potatoes is easy with a few insider tips:
- Always Use Parchment Paper: This is a non-negotiable step for optimal results. Parchment paper not only prevents the cheesy crust from sticking to your baking sheet but also promotes even roasting and facilitates easy cleanup. Without it, the cheese may fuse to the pan, making removal difficult and potentially tearing the crust.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents like cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly and crisping up properly. For that ideal golden-brown, crunchy Parmesan crust, take the extra minute to freshly grate your Parmesan cheese from a block.
- Ensure Uniform Cuts: To guarantee that all your potato halves cook evenly and reach the same level of tenderness and crispiness at the same time, make sure to slice them into roughly uniform sizes. If some are significantly larger or smaller, they will cook at different rates, leading to some being undercooked and others overcooked.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Give your potatoes ample space to breathe! When a baking sheet is overcrowded, the potatoes release steam, which gets trapped and prevents them from truly roasting and crisping. Instead, they will steam rather than brown. If you have a large batch, use two baking sheets and rotate them halfway through cooking.
- Allow for a Brief Rest: Once the potatoes are out of the oven, resist the urge to immediately remove them from the pan. Let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the melted cheese to set and firm up, making it much easier to lift the crispy potatoes off the parchment paper intact without breaking the delicious crust.
- Thoroughly Dry Potatoes: After washing your fingerling potatoes, it’s vital to dry them completely with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel. Any residual moisture on the potato surface will create steam in the oven, hindering the crisping process and preventing the oil and seasonings from adhering effectively.
Exciting Cooking Variations
While the oven-roasted method is classic, these cheesy fingerling potatoes can be adapted to other cooking appliances for different textures and convenience:
Air Fryer Method: For an even crispier and quicker option, try the air fryer. Toss the seasoned potatoes (without the cheese for now) with olive oil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Then, open the air fryer, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese mixture over the potatoes, and air fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and crispy.
Skillet Version: Achieve a stovetop delight with this method. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works beautifully) with a tablespoon of butter and a swirl of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned potato halves, cut-side down, and cook for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and tender, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, sprinkle the cheese mixture over the potatoes, cover the skillet, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Grilled Potatoes: Perfect for barbecue season! Toss the potatoes with olive oil and spices (but hold the cheese for now). Wrap them securely in heavy-duty aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet. Grill over medium-high heat for 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally, until tender. Carefully open the foil, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese mixture over the potatoes, and grill for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and forms a crispy crust.
What to Serve with Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
These versatile cheesy roasted fingerling potatoes make an exceptional side dish that complements a wide array of main courses and can even be enjoyed as a delightful appetizer. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Delicious Dips: Elevate the experience by offering a variety of dipping sauces. Classic sour cream or a tangy Greek yogurt dip provides a cooling contrast. A homemade garlic aioli adds a rich, creamy, and herbaceous touch, while a zesty ranch dressing offers a familiar and comforting flavor.
- Hearty Proteins: These potatoes pair beautifully with most roasted or grilled meats.
- Roasted Chicken: A classic pairing, whether it’s a whole roasted chicken or individual chicken breasts/thighs.
- Grilled Steak: The savory, cheesy potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to a juicy grilled steak or tender beef tenderloin.
- Baked Salmon or Fish: For a lighter meal, serve them alongside flaky baked salmon, cod, or any other favorite fish.
- Pork Chops: The robust flavors of pork chops, especially grilled or pan-seared, are wonderfully balanced by these potatoes.
- Fresh Vegetables and Salads: To create a well-rounded meal, serve these potatoes with a vibrant green vegetable or a crisp salad.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slightly bitter and caramelized flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts is a fantastic complement.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans with a hint of garlic and lemon offer a fresh contrast.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich potatoes.
- Asparagus: Roasted or grilled asparagus spears make for an elegant and delicious pairing.
- Brunch Delights: Don’t limit these potatoes to dinner! They are fantastic as part of a hearty brunch spread, served alongside scrambled eggs, omelets, bacon, or sausages.
- Appetizer Style: Serve them on a platter with toothpicks and a selection of dips for an easy and impressive party appetizer.
Storing and Reheating Your Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can absolutely save leftovers and enjoy them later with a few simple tips:
Storing Leftovers: Once the potatoes have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Proper cooling and sealing prevent moisture buildup and maintain freshness.
Reheating for Crispy Perfection: The key to reheating these potatoes is to bring back their crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through and the cheese crust has re-crisped. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.
- Air Fryer Method: For the quickest and crispiest reheat, place the potatoes in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket once, until hot and crispy.
Freezing: Freezing fully baked cheesy potatoes is generally not recommended, as the texture can become mealy and the cheese crust may lose its integrity upon thawing and reheating. However, if you absolutely must freeze them, here’s a modified approach:
- Bake the fingerling potatoes without the Parmesan cheese mixture.
- Allow the baked potatoes to cool completely.
- Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet (flash freeze) until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together.
- When ready to serve, arrange the frozen potatoes on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese mixture on top. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is golden and crispy. You may need a slightly longer cooking time since they are starting from frozen.
Common Questions About Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
Can I make cheesy fingerling potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can certainly do some prep work in advance. Prepare the potatoes (wash, dry, and halve) and mix the cheese and spice blend up to 24 hours before baking. Store the potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep the cheese mixture in a separate sealed container. Assemble them on the baking sheet and bake just before serving for the freshest and crispiest results.
Can I use other types of potatoes besides fingerling potatoes?
Absolutely! While fingerling potatoes are ideal, you can easily substitute them with other small, firm potato varieties. Baby potatoes (also known as new potatoes), Yukon Gold, or red potatoes all work beautifully. The key is to slice them into similar sizes to ensure consistent cooking times and even crisping.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Potatoes, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and all the listed spices are inherently gluten-free. Always double-check the labels on your spices and cheese, especially if you’re using pre-packaged blends, to ensure no hidden gluten-containing ingredients or cross-contamination from manufacturing processes. Rest assured, with standard ingredients, this dish is safe for those avoiding gluten.
Why are my fingerling potatoes not crispy?
Several factors can prevent your potatoes from achieving that coveted crispiness:
- Moisture: Ensure the potatoes are completely dry after washing. Excess moisture creates steam, which hinders browning.
- Overcrowding: Spreading the potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet is crucial. If the pan is too full, the potatoes will steam instead of roast, leading to a soft texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature (400°F/200°C). A high temperature is essential for crisping.
- Parchment Paper: While parchment paper helps prevent sticking, ensure the cheese layer has direct contact with the hot pan (via the parchment) to get crispy.
By addressing these points, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy potatoes every time!
Explore More Delicious Potato Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed the irresistible taste and ease of these cheesy roasted fingerling potatoes, you’re in for a treat! Potatoes are incredibly versatile, offering endless possibilities for delicious side dishes or even main courses. Here are more fantastic potato recipes to inspire your next meal:
- Crispy Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes: Achieve perfectly golden and tender potatoes with minimal oil in your air fryer.
- Crispy Roasted Baby Potatoes: A simple yet elegant side dish featuring small, tender baby potatoes roasted to perfection.
- Quick Air Fryer Sliced Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes that become wonderfully crispy and flavorful in minutes.
- Flavorful Air Fryer Red Potatoes: Enjoy the earthy goodness of red potatoes, made perfectly tender inside and crisp outside using your air fryer.
- Irresistible Air Fryer Potato Skins: A classic appetizer or snack, made healthier and faster in the air fryer.
Each of these recipes offers a unique way to enjoy potatoes, showcasing their incredible adaptability and comforting appeal. Dive in and find your next favorite potato dish!
This Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes recipe truly embodies the essence of comfort food – crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with an explosion of savory flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual weeknight dinner or making a grand statement at a special occasion, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Its simplicity belies its incredible taste, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
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Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
By: Mariam Ezzeddine
Cheesy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any occasion. They’re roasted with a Parmesan coating and a blend of seasonings for a crunchy texture and savory taste.
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb fingerling potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Chopped fresh parsley, to garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Drizzle ½ tablespoon of olive oil over the parchment and set it aside.
- Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly, then slice them in half lengthwise. Place them in a bowl and drizzle the remaining olive oil over them, tossing to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the seasoning blend.
- Spread the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over the olive oil-drizzled parchment paper on your baking sheet. Arrange the potato halves, cut side down, on top of the seasoning, ensuring they are in a single layer.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the cheesy crust is golden and crispy.
- Once done, carefully remove the potatoes from the baking sheet, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with a side of sour cream or your favorite dip. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even roasting.
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and crisping.
- Cut evenly: Halve the potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the potatoes in a single layer to allow them to crisp up properly; overcrowding will steam them.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 31g |
Protein: 9g |
Fat: 16g |
Saturated Fat: 5g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 9g |
Cholesterol: 22mg |
Sodium: 684mg |
Potassium: 767mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 283 IU |
Vitamin C: 34mg |
Calcium: 305mg |
Iron: 2mg