
This roasted parmesan potatoes and broccoli recipe is that cheerful side dish I turn to whenever I want something simple but full of comfort. Picture golden baby potatoes and bright green broccoli florets, both roasted until toasty and crisp, then blanketed with a layer of nutty parmesan. It is the kind of dish that vanishes fast at my dinner table and fits perfectly next to almost anything you make.
I still remember the first evening I served this at a family birthday dinner. Everyone reached for seconds and I barely got to put any away for leftovers. Since then it has become my secret weapon for busy weeknights and potlucks alike.
Ingredients
- Baby potatoes: for their creamy centers and crisp edges seek out small ones that are firm and blemish free
- Broccoli florets: bring color and vitamins choose fresh with tightly closed tops
- Grated parmesan cheese: adds a rich savory note always use real parmesan for best flavor and grate it yourself if you can
- Olive oil: helps vegetables roast to a crispy finish opt for extra virgin for richness
- Garlic powder: infuses the dish with background warmth pick a good quality for better flavor
- Salt: to enhance every element use kosher or sea salt if possible
- Black pepper: for gentle heat freshly cracked is always best
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Slice baby potatoes in half and chop broccoli into bite sized florets. Rinse in cold water and dry thoroughly to encourage crispness. Dry vegetables roast better and absorb seasonings more evenly.
- Season and Toss:
- Combine all vegetables in a large bowl with olive oil garlic powder salt and black pepper. Use clean hands to toss until everything glistens evenly. This ensures the seasoning clings well and you will get flavor in every bite.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Spread the mixture out in one layer on a parchment lined baking sheet. Spacing the pieces apart allows air circulation and helps them roast rather than steam.
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for about twenty minutes. At this stage potatoes start to brown and broccoli turns vivid green. Flip vegetables halfway through for even roasting.
- Add Parmesan and Finish Roasting:
- Sprinkle grated parmesan generously over the vegetables and return to the oven for another ten to fifteen minutes. The cheese should melt and turn golden while vegetables get even more crispy at the edges.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let vegetables sit a few minutes on the pan before transferring to a serving dish. This helps the parmesan set and makes serving easier.

My favorite part is always watching the parmesan become crisp and golden during the last few minutes in the oven. The aroma alone calls everyone to the kitchen. I still remember my youngest niece asking for thirds and that is when I knew it deserved a place in our regular rotation.
Storage Tips
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for three to four days. For reheating spread the vegetables onto a baking sheet and warm at 350 degrees until the edges re crisp or warm in a skillet with a splash of olive oil. Avoid microwaving as it can make the potatoes less crispy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes or butternut squash cut into cubes. Cauliflower makes a great stand in for broccoli if you are out. If you need a dairy free version nutritional yeast is a fantastic alternative for that cheesy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These roasted vegetables are ideal with roasted chicken grilled sausage or even next to your favorite pasta dish. I often prepare an extra sheet to fold into frittatas breakfast burritos or even toss into salads for lunch the next day.
Cultural and Historical Context
Potatoes and broccoli are popular companions in many European kitchens often paired with cheese for comfort and substance. The method of roasting with olive oil and simple seasonings is a time honored practice designed to coax out maximum natural sweetness and texture.

Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent extra moisture, keeping your veggies crisp.
- → What main courses pair well with this dish?
These potatoes and broccoli go great with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or hearty pasta dishes.
- → Can I prepare the veggies ahead of time?
You can chop and season the vegetables a few hours in advance, but roast them just before serving for best results.
- → How do I know when the potatoes are done?
Look for golden, crispy edges and check tenderness with a fork; they should be soft inside.
- → Can I swap out parmesan for other cheeses?
Certainly! Cheddar or feta are tasty alternatives—just adjust quantity for your taste preference.
- → How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or in a skillet with olive oil to regain their delicious crisp.