Cheesy red potatoes are a warm and comforting dish, packed with cheesy goodness! These small red potatoes are boiled and smothered in melted cheese, making them irresistible.
Honestly, who can say no to a dish that’s both creamy and cheesy? I love serving these as a side at dinner. They’re so tasty that leftovers (if there are any) are a rare find! 🥔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: These small, waxy potatoes hold their shape well during cooking. If you can’t find red potatoes, Yukon Gold or even fingerling potatoes make great substitutes. They offer a similar creamy texture and flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: You can choose sharp or mild cheddar cheese based on your taste. For a twist, try using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar or even a pepper jack for some heat and flavor.
Olive Oil or Butter: I love the flavor of olive oil, but melted butter gives a rich taste too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works well. It has a high smoke point and adds a nice flavor.
Spices: Garlic and onion powders are excellent for flavor. If you want to freshen things up, you could use minced fresh garlic and chopped onions instead. The optional smoked paprika or chili powder can really amp up the dish, so I recommend trying it!
How Do I Get Perfectly Roasted Potatoes?
Roasting potatoes is about getting them crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. Start by washing and cutting your potatoes into uniform sizes; this ensures they cook evenly.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to get a nice crispy exterior.
- Coat the potatoes well with olive oil or melted butter, and don’t skip the seasoning. This is where the flavor comes from!
- Spread them out on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding; this helps them roast instead of steam.
- Halfway through, stir them. This is key to getting all sides golden and crispy.
Following these steps will help ensure your cheesy red potatoes are perfectly roasted every time!
How to Make Cheesy Red Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 lbs small red potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder for extra flavor
For Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, based on preference)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and an additional 35-40 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll be enjoying these yummy cheesy red potatoes in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your potatoes will roast to perfection with a crispy outside.
2. Preparing the Potatoes:
Next, wash and scrub the red potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut any larger potatoes in half or quarters, so all the pieces are about the same size. This helps them cook evenly.
3. Seasoning the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil or melted butter. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well to ensure every potato is coated with seasoning.
4. Arranging on the Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. Make sure there’s space between them to allow for even roasting.
5. Roasting the Potatoes:
Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir or shake the baking sheet halfway through for even cooking.
6. Adding the Cheese:
Once the potatoes are golden and tender, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot potatoes.
7. Melting the Cheese:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly.
8. Garnishing:
After removing the dish from the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
9. Serving:
Serve these cheesy red potatoes hot as a delightful side dish or as a comforting snack. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
These potatoes are perfect for any meal, bringing warmth and flavor to your table. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes! While small red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes will also work great. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese alternative. You can also swap out half of the olive oil or butter for Greek yogurt for creaminess without as much fat.
Can I Make These Cheesy Red Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the seasoned potatoes up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. Just toss them in some extra oil before roasting to help with the browning.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them briefly or pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.