If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes, this recipe for crispy baked mini potatoes is perfect for you. With their golden exterior and tender interior, these mini potatoes are incredibly tasty and easy to prepare. Pair them with a delicious dipping sauce, and you have a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details of this fantastic recipe!
Why Baked Mini Potatoes?
Baking mini potatoes instead of frying them reduces the amount of oil used, making them a healthier option. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and when baked to perfection, they offer a crispy texture that rivals any fried potato dish.
Ingredients
To prepare these delicious baked mini potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lb / 1 kg mini potatoes
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Chives (optional)
For the dipping sauce (optional but highly recommended):
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Chives
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). A hot oven ensures the potatoes become crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.
Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash the Potatoes: Thoroughly wash the mini potatoes to remove any dirt.
- Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the mini potatoes. Boil for 10-15 minutes until they are tender but not falling apart. This step helps to soften the potatoes and reduces baking time.
- Drain and Cool: Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. This makes them easier to handle for the next steps.
Season the Potatoes
- Coat with Olive Oil: Place the cooled potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. The olive oil helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven, while the seasoning adds flavor.
Bake the Potatoes
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. This ensures even baking and crisping.
- Sprinkle Parmesan: Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. The cheese will melt and create a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Bake Until Crispy: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy. Turn the potatoes halfway through baking to ensure even crisping.
Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, chopped chives, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until all ingredients are combined. This creamy, tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy potatoes.
Serve
- Transfer to Platter: Transfer the baked potatoes to a serving platter.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and chopped chives if desired. Serve with the prepared dipping sauce on the side for a delicious and healthy snack or side dish.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: Make sure to cut any larger potatoes to match the size of the smaller ones for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure the potatoes crisp up properly.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh chives and high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe for baked mini potatoes is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits:
- Low in Fat: Baking the potatoes instead of frying them significantly reduces the fat content.
- Rich in Vitamins: Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber.
- High in Protein: Parmesan cheese adds a protein boost to this dish, making it more filling and nutritious.
These crispy baked mini potatoes are a fantastic alternative to traditional fried potatoes. They are easy to prepare, healthier, and just as tasty. Perfect for a quick snack, a side dish, or a party appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy potatoes and creamy dipping sauce, and discover why these are better than fried potatoes!
Additional Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out these other delicious options: