Lemon Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – Crispy, Cheesy, and Zesty

Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with zesty lemon and savory cheese—these roasted potatoes are anything but ordinary.

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s equal parts simple and sensational, look no further than Lemon Parmesan Roasted Potatoes. This easy oven-roasted recipe combines the nutty richness of Parmesan, the brightness of fresh lemon, and the earthiness of rosemary to transform humble potatoes into something special.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party, putting together a weeknight meal, or prepping a brunch menu, these potatoes bring serious flavor and texture to the table. Crispy edges, tender centers, and savory aromatics make them as versatile as they are delicious.

🔥 The Secret to Crispy Perfection? Baking Soda.

The magic starts with a game-changing technique: parboiling the potatoes in water with baking soda. This step breaks down the outer layer of the potatoes, creating more surface area to crisp up in the oven. The result? A beautifully golden exterior that gives way to a fluffy, creamy interior.

From there, the potatoes are tossed with melted butter, olive oil, fresh garlic, rosemary, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest—then roasted until irresistibly golden and crisp.

🥔 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 lbs baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus ½ tsp more for seasoning)

• 1 tablespoon melted butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus 2 tbsp for topping)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Chopped parsley and lemon wedges, for serving

👩‍🍳 How to Make Lemon Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Parboil

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and the baking soda. Add halved potatoes and cook for 7–10 minutes, until just fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

In a large bowl, combine the potatoes with melted butter, olive oil, ½ cup of Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Roast

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a large baking sheet and arrange the potatoes in a single layer. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

Roast for 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and crisp on the edges.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and top with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve warm.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

These potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of mains:

• Grilled chicken or steak

• Seared salmon or roasted fish

• Pasta dishes and Greek-style salads

• Lamb gyros or Mediterranean platters

• Dipping sauces like tzatziki or garlic aioli

🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Oven: Reheat at 375°F for about 10 minutes to maintain crispness.

• Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 3–4 minutes.

• Microwave: Not recommended, as it may result in soggy texture.

❓ FAQs

Can I skip the parboil step?
You can, but parboiling with baking soda gives the best crispy results. It's worth the extra step.

Why baking soda?
It raises the water’s pH, breaking down the potato surface and creating a rougher texture that crisps up in the oven.

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes. Red potatoes or fingerlings also work well.

Fresh vs. pre-grated Parmesan?
Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded versions often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting and browning.

With their golden crust, savory flavor, and bright citrus finish, Lemon Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a standout side dish that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for more flavor-packed recipes that elevate everyday meals from ordinary to unforgettable.