Crispy Parmesan Baked Potatoes (Easy Side for Two)

Crispy Parmesan Baked Potatoes are an easy, budget-friendly side dish with a golden, cheesy crust and tender centers. Baking the potatoes cut-side down in butter and parmesan creates a rich, crispy layer that’s hard to resist.

This recipe is part of our Side Dishes for Two collection.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

WHY YOU’LL LOVE

• Crispy golden parmesan crust
• Simple ingredients you already have
• Budget-friendly and filling
• Perfect side for almost any meal
• Easy “set it and forget it” oven recipe

INGREDIENTS FOR PARMESAN BAKED POTATOES (FOR TWO)

• 2 medium potatoes, washed and cut in half
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Montreal steak seasoning (or preferred seasoning)

INGREDIENT NOTES

• Potatoes: Russet = crispier, Yukon Gold = creamier inside
• Parmesan: Fresh grated works best for a crispy crust (pre-shredded won’t melt the same)
• Seasoning: Montreal adds flavor fast, but any blend works

HOW TO MAKE PARMESAN BAKED POTATOES

1. Preheat oven to 400°F
2. Pour melted butter into a small baking dish and spread evenly
3. Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over the butter
4. Add garlic powder and seasoning over the cheese
5. Place potatoes cut side down on top of the mixture
6. Bake for 45 minutes until tender and crispy
7. Let cool slightly before removing (this helps the crust stick)

EQUIPMENT

⭐🙌 Baking Dish (9×9) – perfect size for even cooking
⭐🙌 Sharp Knife – clean cuts for even halves
⭐🙌 Measuring Cups – quick and accurate portions

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Other Useful Tools:
• Cutting board
• Spatula (for lifting potatoes cleanly)

OPTIONS

• Add paprika for smoky flavor
• Sprinkle parsley after baking
• Add shredded cheddar for extra cheesy version

TIPS (IMPORTANT FOR SUCCESS)

• Don’t move potatoes while baking — that’s how the crust forms
• Let them rest 5 minutes before lifting
• Use enough parmesan to fully cover the pan
• Cut evenly so they cook at the same rate

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Serve with:
• Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops For Two
•3 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken with Creamy Onion Sauce
• Creamy Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for Two
•Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken for Two

STORAGE

• Store in fridge up to 3 days
• Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture
• Avoid microwave if possible (softens crust)

BUDGET TIP

Potatoes + butter + parmesan = one of the cheapest filling sides you can make.

Estimated cost: $2–$3 total ($1–$1.50 per serving)

FAQ

Why aren’t my potatoes crispy?
Not enough parmesan or they were moved during baking

Can I use shredded parmesan?
Fresh is best — pre-shredded won’t crisp as well

Can I double this?
Yes, just use a larger pan

TRY THESE NEXT

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• 3 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
• Cheesy Taco Rice
• Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops

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