Choose the Right Potatoes For crispy yet fluffy roasted potatoes, choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These types have a high starch content that gives the best texture when roasted.
Parboil First An Italian secret is to parboil the potatoes before roasting. Boil them for about 10-15 minutes until just tender. This step helps create a fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
Roughen the Surface Once drained, shake the pot or use a fork to roughen the surface of the potatoes. The more uneven the surface, the more crispy edges you'll get when roasting.
Use Olive Oil Italian cooking is known for its love of olive oil, and roasted potatoes are no exception. Drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the potatoes to ensure they roast evenly and get that golden color.
Add Garlic and Herbs Infuse the olive oil with flavor by adding crushed garlic, rosemary, and thyme—classic Italian herbs. These will impart a delicious aroma and savory depth to your potatoes.
Roast at High Heat Roast the potatoes in a preheated oven at 400-425°F (200-220°C) for about 30-40 minutes, turning them halfway through. The high temperature is key to achieving a perfectly crispy texture.
Finish with Sea Salt and Parmesan After roasting, sprinkle a touch of sea salt and freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. The salt enhances the flavors, and the Parmesan adds a savory, crispy finish.