If you’re searching for a comforting yet impressive side dish that feels both indulgent and homey, the Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden, crispy potatoes are effortlessly infused with buttery Parmesan and fragrant garlic, creating a texture contrast that’s simply addictive. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish turns ordinary potatoes into something extraordinary, perfect for any celebration or cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe is straightforward, but each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and golden color.
- 4 large potatoes: Choose starchy varieties like Russets for a fluffy interior and crispy skin.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the skins crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish to enhance flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory kick that pairs wonderfully with Parmesan.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a beautiful color to the potato filling.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the filling, giving it a sharp, nutty richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness to the final dish.
How to Make Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt since they will be baked with the skin on. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. Next, rub them evenly with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. This initial layer of seasoning helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45 to 60 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Scooping out the Potato Flesh
Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly so you can handle them safely. Then, slice each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the interior flesh, leaving about a thin 1/4-inch layer of potato inside the skin. This step ensures the skins hold their shape while giving you a fluffy base to mix with the flavorful filling.
Step 3: Mixing the Flavorful Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the scooped potato flesh with minced garlic, paprika, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Blend everything well, adding salt and pepper to taste. This mixture becomes the star of the Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe, packed with savory and slightly smoky notes.
Step 4: Stuffing and Baking to Perfection
Spoon the cheesy potato mixture back into the hollowed potato skins, filling them generously but neatly. Place these stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet and pop them into the oven again for about 15 to 20 minutes. This final bake melds the flavors together and crisps up the tops to a golden, irresistible finish.
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
Just before serving, sprinkle the potatoes with freshly chopped parsley. This simple garnish adds a fresh, herbal touch that balances the richness of the Parmesan and garlic.
How to Serve Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a bit of chopped fresh parsley is a classic choice to brighten up the plate visually and flavor-wise. You could also consider a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish. Each garnish elevates the warm, comforting flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
These Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a fresh green salad for lighter fare. Their crispy skin and cheesy filling add a hearty element to complement any protein or vegetable dish on your table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the potatoes on a rustic wooden board beneath a scattering of microgreens or edible flowers. You can also cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for parties as finger food. These little touches make this comforting side dish feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, retaining much of their flavor and texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it may slightly change the texture of the potatoes. To freeze, place the cooked stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. Use within one month for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes to restore their crispy skin and warm the filling. Microwaving is quicker but may result in softer skins and less appealing texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan offers a nutty sharpness, you can experiment with cheddar, Gruyere, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile and texture. Just be mindful of how melting qualities vary.
Is it necessary to bake the potatoes twice?
Yes, the double baking ensures the skins get crispy while allowing the filling to stay creamy and flavorful. Skipping the second bake would compromise texture and flavor development.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
You can assemble the stuffed potatoes a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just make sure to bring them close to room temperature before putting them in the oven for even cooking.
How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
To veganize, substitute Parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use a dairy-free oil like avocado or extra olive oil. Check all ingredient labels to ensure they are vegan.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal as they have a starchy, fluffy interior that works well for scooping and mixing. Yukon Gold can also be used but may result in a slightly creamier texture.
Final Thoughts
I can confidently say the Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe is a delightful addition to any meal. It’s easy to make but feels luxurious, combining the comfort of potatoes with the indulgence of crispy, cheesy goodness. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a favorite you’ll return to again and again, whether for holiday dinners or everyday feasts.
Print
Twice Cooked Potatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Twice Cooked Potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday celebrations like Thanksgiving. These potatoes are baked until tender, scooped out and mixed with garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese, then stuffed back into their skins and baked again until golden and crispy. Garnished with fresh parsley, they offer a delicious combination of creamy, crispy, and savory flavors sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large potatoes
Seasonings and Mix-Ins
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes.
- Prepare and bake potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce each potato several times with a fork. Rub them evenly with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes until they are tender inside.
- Cool and scoop potatoes: Remove the baked potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer attached to the skin to maintain structure.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the scooped potato flesh with minced garlic, paprika, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture further with salt and pepper to your taste and mix until well blended.
- Stuff and bake again: Spoon the potato mixture back evenly into each potato skin half. Place them on the baking sheet and return to the oven to bake for another 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the stuffed potatoes for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Be careful not to scoop out too much flesh; leaving a thin layer in the skin helps the potato hold its shape during the second bake.
- Feel free to add other seasonings such as chives or smoked paprika for additional flavor variations.
- This recipe pairs well with roasted turkey or grilled meats for a hearty holiday meal.
- Using a fork to pierce the potatoes helps steam escape while baking for even cooking.
