Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy potatoes! While the oven heats, prepare your potatoes by scrubbing them clean (no need to peel unless you prefer) and cutting into uniform 1-inch chunks or wedges.

Step 2: Dry the Potatoes

This is a crucial step! Pat the cut potatoes completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture is the secret to crispy potatoes—wet potatoes will steam instead of roast and won’t get that golden crust we want. Take an extra minute here—it makes all the difference!

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Place the dried potato chunks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again until potatoes are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. Add ½ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese (reserving ¼ cup for later) and toss again until the cheese coats the potatoes.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This is important—don’t pile them up or overlap too much, as crowding prevents crisping. The potatoes should have space between them for air circulation. If they don’t all fit comfortably, use a second baking sheet. Try to place them cut-side down for maximum contact with the hot pan, which creates more crispy surfaces.

Step 5: Roast

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes without disturbing them. This allows the bottom to develop a golden crust. After 20 minutes, remove from oven and use a spatula to flip the potatoes, turning them to expose different sides. Return to oven and roast for another 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Add Final Cheese

When potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges (total roasting time about 35-40 minutes), remove from oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes. The residual heat will melt this final layer of cheese, creating an extra cheesy, crispy coating. If you want extra-melted cheese, return to oven for 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the crispy Parmesan potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot and crispy. These are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the exterior is at peak crunchiness!