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Crispy, golden, and full of garlicky parmesan flavor. These skillet potatoes are the kind of easy side dish that steals the show. Quick to prep, cooked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
I love cooking in a cast-iron skillet. It heats evenly and crisps things up beautifully, which makes it my go-to anytime I’m making a potato dish. The guys at my house love their meat and potatoes (honestly, we’re all big potato fans around here), so this one’s been on repeat in my kitchen for years. And let me tell you, it’s always a hit!
It’s one of those side dish wonders that works with just about anything. Super simple to throw together and doesn’t take much effort (perfect for busy nights). The baby potatoes are quick to cut and cook fast, thanks to their small size.
Here’s what makes this irresistible:
My technique is key to getting that nice dark brown on the potatoes.
- Crispy and golden on the outside, soft on the inside: Just how skillet potatoes should be.
- Quick and easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients.
- One-Pan Magic: Less cleanup, more flavor.
- Family favorite: Kid-approved and perfect alongside just about any main.
- Customizable: Toss in extra herbs, use your favorite cheese, or spice them up a bit!
Garlic Potatoes Recipe Ingredients
- Baby Potatoes: Reds or tri-color work great. Just keep them similar in size so they cook evenly.
- Olive Oil + Butter: Olive oil gives a higher smoke point, and butter adds rich, buttery flavor. The combo helps with browning and adds great color and taste.
- Garlic: Fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch. Adjust to taste.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated melts and crisps better. I use a microplane.
- Parsley: Fresh adds color and brightness. You can also use lightly dried from the produce section of the grocery store.
- Chicken Broth (optional): Softens the potatoes if you like them more tender. Water or veggie broth works too.
How to Make Cast Iron Potatoes
Step 1 | Prep the Potatoes
Rinse and pat your baby potatoes dry, then slice each one in half. Keeping them similar in size helps them cook evenly and get that perfect crispy edge.
Step 2 | Heat the Skillet
Add olive oil and butter to your cast-iron skillet and warm it over medium to medium-high heat. The combination of the two gives you the best flavor and that beautiful golden color.
Step 3 | Sear the Potatoes
Place the potatoes cut-side down in the hot skillet. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese over the top, then leave them alone for about 10–15 minutes. This is key—don’t stir or move them. Let that sear happen!
My Expert Tip: That first 10–15 minutes of untouched cooking time is what gives you that restaurant-style crisp. Trust me—just walk away and let the skillet work its magic!
Step 4 | Add the Flavor
Once the bottoms are crispy and golden brown, flip the potatoes over. Sprinkle with the minced garlic and remaining Parmesan.
If you like softer potatoes, pour in the chicken broth (or water/veggie broth) before covering.
Step 5 | Steam and Finish
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. The broth helps them steam while keeping those golden edges nice and crisp.
Step 6 | Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and finish with a little extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve hot and watch them disappear!
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Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Swap: Try Romano, Asiago, or even a sharp white cheddar instead of Parmesan.
- Add Some Heat: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika for a kick.
- Lemon Garlic: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, zesty twist.
- Herb it Up: Mix in rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Make it a Meal: Toss in cooked sausage, chopped bacon, or leftover rotisserie chicken.
What to Serve With Cast Iron Skillet Potatoes
These potatoes go with just about everything! Here are a few easy pairings:
- Grilled Chicken or Roasted Chicken – Classic combo that never fails.
- Steak or Pork Chops – Perfect for soaking up those pan juices.
- Fish – Try it with my air fryer salmon bites or salmon patties.
- Eggs and Bacon – Turn them into a hearty breakfast or brunch.
- A Simple Salad – Perfect for a lighter meal or a quick lunch.
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Cast Iron Potatoes
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes - any variety (I love the little reds or trios)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic - minced (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley - (or use lightly dried parsley)
- 4 tablespoons parmesan cheese - freshly grated (plus more for garnish) – I grate with a microplane.
- ¼ cup chicken broth - (optional)
Instructions
- Slice potatoes in half.
- Place butter and olive oil in a cast-iron skillet and heat to medium to medium-high heat. Place the potatoes, cut side down, into the skillet.
- Sprinkle with ½ of the Parmesan cheese over potatoes. Leave them to cook for 10-15 minutes. Do not touch.
- Once the potatoes are browned to your liking, turn them over. Sprinkle minced garlic and remaining Parmesan cheese over potatoes. If you like a softer potato, add ¼ cup of broth. Place the lid on the pan and cook for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Remove and sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese, then garnish with parsley. Serve.
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Trying these now. Gonna see in a few. Cast iron cooking is great, I love the seat it give to all foods.
These potatoes look so delicious! The mister will love this dish.
I would not want to share them.
I love potatoes like this
Thank you Nicole! Just tell them hands off lol 😉