Name: Garlic Parmesan Creamy Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 lb baby or small red potatoes (halved or quartered); 2 –3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 –4 cloves garlic (minced); ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

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Imagine fork-tender baby potatoes enveloped in a luscious garlic and Parmesan cream sauce, delivering rich and comforting flavors perfect for any occasion. This Garlic Parmesan Creamy Potatoes dish brings that ideal balance of crispy roasted edges and smooth, cheesy coating to your table.

Whether served alongside roasted meats or a fresh salad, these potatoes transform everyday ingredients into an inviting side that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare. Expect every bite to be bursting with creamy, savory goodness elevated by fragrant garlic and herb hints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasting potatoes unlocks natural sweetness and crispy textures under a flavorful garlic coating.
The creamy Parmesan sauce elevates traditional potatoes to a rich and indulgent side dish.
Simple ingredients yield sophisticated comfort food suitable for weeknight dinners or special meals.

Ingredients

Baby or small red potatoes (900 g): Choose tender, small potatoes halved or quartered to roast perfectly and absorb flavors well.
Olive oil (2–3 tablespoons): Adds a fruity richness and helps crisp the potato edges evenly when roasting.
Garlic cloves (3–4, minced): Provides fragrant, savory depth that infuses the potatoes with aromatic garlic flavor.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances and balances all the natural and added flavors in the dish.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle subtle warming spice to complement the creaminess.
Heavy cream or half-and-half (½ cup): Creates a velvety, rich base for the Parmesan sauce coating the potatoes.
Parmesan cheese, grated (½ cup): Offers nutty, salty, umami flavor that melts seamlessly into the sauce.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Intensifies richness and helps develop a smooth texture in the creamy sauce.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness and color contrast on top.

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 200°C (approximately 400°F). Toss halved or quartered baby potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to coat evenly. Spreading them on a baking sheet ensures each piece roasts uniformly, developing flavor and texture.
Roast the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a single layer and roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through for even browning. This step crisps the edges while keeping the inside tender, building a perfect base for the creamy sauce.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy. Add heavy cream and gently simmer to warm through, then whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This rich sauce will coat the potatoes with luxurious flavor.
Combine & Serve: Once the potatoes are roasted and tender, toss them in the creamy Parmesan sauce until thoroughly coated. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if using, and serve warm to enjoy the full savory, comforting taste experience.

You Must Know

For crispier potatoes, roast uncovered and avoid overcrowding the pan to let moisture escape.
Try sprinkling paprika or Italian seasoning on potatoes before roasting for an extra flavor boost.
You can prepare the roasted potatoes ahead and reheat them gently in the sauce just before serving.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover creamy potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven with a splash of cream to bring back the sauce’s richness and prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted beef, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For extra savoriness, serve alongside steamed vegetables or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Professional Tips

Use fresh Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself for a creamier, more flavorful sauce.
Ensure potatoes are dry before tossing with olive oil to achieve better roasting crispness.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream without sacrificing creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this dish?: Yes, Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes work well too, providing creamy texture and roasting nicely.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?: Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese are excellent alternatives offering a sharper, slightly different flavor.
How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?: Roast on a single layer without crowding and avoid covering the pan to allow moisture to escape and edges to crisp.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?: Absolutely! Roast the potatoes in advance and reheat them in the creamy sauce just before serving for convenience.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?: You can substitute vegan butter, plant-based cream, and dairy-free cheese to make a suitable vegan alternative.
Should I peel the potatoes before roasting?: No need to peel baby or small red potatoes, as the skins add texture, flavor, and nutrients.
How do I store leftovers properly?: Keep cooled leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.