Name: Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484694H4M2S
Total time: PT-484694H4M2S
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold or baby potatoes, diced into bite-sized cubes; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tbsp olive oil; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

There’s something truly comforting about a plate of crispy, golden potatoes with a side of tender, flavorful broccoli. I love making this dish because it’s simple yet packed with bold flavors from Parmesan, garlic, and just the right amount of seasoning. The crispy edges of the roasted potatoes combined with the slightly charred broccoli create a perfect contrast of textures.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish or something to impress guests, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, it pairs well with just about any protein or can be enjoyed as a satisfying vegetarian option. Once you try these roasted Parmesan potatoes and broccoli, you’ll find yourself making them on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli

Crispy and flavorful – The potatoes get irresistibly crispy on the outside while staying soft on the inside, with a perfect coating of Parmesan and seasonings.
Easy to make – With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this on the table in no time.
Healthy and satisfying – Broccoli adds a nutritious touch, making this a well-balanced side dish.
Customizable – You can easily tweak the seasonings or add your favorite spices to suit your taste.
Pairs with anything – Serve it with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or even on its own as a hearty vegetarian dish.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For the best texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold or baby potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy interior that contrasts beautifully with their crisp exterior when roasted. If you prefer a firmer texture, red potatoes are another great option. Russet potatoes can also work, but they tend to be drier and may not hold their shape as well.

The key is to cut the potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. If you’re using baby potatoes, you can simply halve or quarter them, while larger potatoes should be diced into bite-sized cubes.

Options for Substitutions

Cheese – If you’re out of Parmesan, try using pecorino, asiago, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Seasonings – Feel free to switch things up by adding smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds a strong kick, but you can substitute it with garlic powder if needed.
Broccoli – If you’re not a fan of broccoli, swap it for Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or green beans.
Oil – Olive oil works best for roasting, but avocado oil or melted butter are great alternatives.
Herbs – Fresh parsley adds brightness, but you can also use basil, thyme, or rosemary.

Ingredients for Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in bringing out the best flavors and textures.

Potatoes – The star of the dish! Yukon Gold or baby potatoes roast beautifully, turning golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.
Broccoli – Adds a delicious, slightly charred contrast to the potatoes while bringing in nutrients and color.
Parmesan Cheese – Gives the potatoes a savory, nutty flavor and helps create a crispy coating.
Olive Oil – Helps the seasonings stick and ensures the potatoes and broccoli roast to perfection.
Garlic – Adds depth and a rich, aromatic taste. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder works too.
Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and broccoli.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Brings a little heat for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Paprika – Adds a smoky depth to the potatoes, making them even more flavorful.
Fresh Parsley – A finishing touch that brightens up the dish with a pop of color and freshness.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the potatoes and broccoli thoroughly. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized cubes and trim the broccoli into florets. Keeping the pieces uniform ensures even roasting.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to coat each piece evenly. Then, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes and toss again to ensure they are fully covered.

Step 3: Roast the Potatoes

Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even browning.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

After 20 minutes, push the potatoes to one side of the baking sheet and add the broccoli florets. Drizzle with olive oil and a little salt, then toss gently to coat. Return to the oven and roast for another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and the broccoli is slightly charred.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this crispy, flavorful dish!

How Long to Cook Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli

The total cooking time is 35-40 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The potatoes take about 20 minutes on their own before adding the broccoli. Once the broccoli is added, everything roasts together for another 15-20 minutes. Stirring halfway ensures even cooking and crispiness. If you prefer extra-crispy potatoes, you can leave them in for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli

Cut evenly – Keeping the potato pieces uniform ensures they cook at the same rate and get evenly crispy.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Spread everything in a single layer so the potatoes and broccoli roast properly instead of steaming.
Use high heat – Roasting at 400°F (200°C) helps achieve that crispy, golden exterior.
Toss halfway through – Stirring the potatoes and broccoli midway prevents burning and allows even browning.
Fresh Parmesan works best – Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well, so use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
Add broccoli later – Since broccoli cooks faster than potatoes, adding it later prevents it from burning.
Finish with extra Parmesan and parsley – A final sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs enhances both the flavor and presentation.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can make a big difference in the final result.

Overcrowding the pan – If the potatoes and broccoli are too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast, resulting in a softer texture instead of crispy edges.
Skipping the preheating step – A hot oven is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crisp on the potatoes. Make sure to preheat your oven properly.
Not drying the potatoes – If the potatoes are wet after washing, they won’t crisp up. Pat them dry with a towel before seasoning.
Adding the broccoli too soon – Broccoli cooks faster than potatoes, so adding it at the beginning can lead to overcooked, mushy florets.
Using too much oil – While oil is essential, too much can make the potatoes greasy rather than crispy. Use just enough to coat them evenly.
Skipping the Parmesan until the end – Mixing the Parmesan with the potatoes before roasting allows it to form a crispy, cheesy crust rather than just sitting on top.
Not flipping the potatoes halfway – Stirring and flipping the potatoes ensures they brown evenly and don’t burn on one side.

What to Serve With Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli

This dish is a versatile side that pairs beautifully with many main courses. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken

The crispy potatoes and charred broccoli complement juicy, seasoned grilled chicken perfectly.

2. Steak

A hearty, well-seasoned steak with these potatoes and broccoli makes for a classic and satisfying meal.

3. Baked Salmon

The light, flaky texture of salmon balances out the crispy, cheesy potatoes and roasted broccoli.

4. Pork Chops

Juicy, pan-seared pork chops pair well with this flavorful and nutritious side dish.

5. Fried or Poached Eggs

Turn this into a hearty breakfast by adding a fried or poached egg on top. The runny yolk adds extra richness.

6. Roasted or Grilled Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp with these potatoes and broccoli is a fantastic combination of flavors and textures.

7. Vegetarian Protein (Tofu or Chickpeas)

For a meatless meal, add crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas for extra protein and crunch.

8. Soup or Salad

Pair this dish with a light soup or a fresh green salad for a well-balanced meal.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, they store well and can be easily reheated for another delicious meal.

Refrigeration: Store leftover roasted Parmesan potatoes and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also microwave them, but they will be softer.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the potatoes and broccoli can become mushy when thawed.

Estimated Nutrition

This is an estimate per serving, based on a four-serving portion size:

Calories: ~250-300 kcal
Protein: ~8g
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Fat: ~12g
Fiber: ~5g
Sugar: ~2g
Sodium: ~400mg

These values can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. If you’re adjusting the recipe, be mindful of added cheese, oil, or seasoning changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but frozen broccoli tends to release more moisture, which can make it less crispy. To improve the texture, thaw and pat it dry before roasting.

2. How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?

Make sure to dry the potatoes completely after washing, spread them in a single layer, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Roasting at high heat (400°F/200°C) also helps achieve the best crispiness.

3. Can I make this dish in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook the potatoes at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Add the broccoli in the last 8-10 minutes to prevent overcooking.

4. What other cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even shredded cheddar can work. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the potatoes ahead and reheat them in the oven before serving. However, for the best texture, add the broccoli fresh when reheating.

6. Why did my potatoes turn out soft instead of crispy?

This could be due to too much oil, overcrowding the baking sheet, or not roasting at a high enough temperature. Make sure the potatoes are well spaced and the oven is fully preheated.

7. What seasonings can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, cumin, or chili powder to enhance the flavors. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end also brightens up the dish.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your Parmesan cheese is labeled gluten-free if needed.

Conclusion

Roasted Parmesan potatoes and broccoli are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The crispy, cheesy potatoes combined with the roasted broccoli make it a family favorite. Whether you’re meal-prepping or making it fresh, this recipe is easy, customizable, and absolutely delicious!

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest and share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!