Parmesan Potato Stacks in Muffin Tin Recipe

Introduction

Parmesan Potato Stacks in Muffin Tin are a simple yet elegant way to enjoy the classic combination of crispy, cheesy potatoes. These golden-brown, perfectly seasoned stacks offer a delicious blend of flavors with crispy edges and tender centers. The individual servings baked in muffin tins make them the ideal side dish for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or special occasions.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and produces stunning results. The layered potato slices are infused with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, creating a flavorful bite every time. These potato stacks are guaranteed to impress guests while satisfying everyone’s cravings for crispy, cheesy comfort food.

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Potato Stacks in Muffin Tin

• Crispy and Cheesy: The golden-brown edges of each potato stack provide a satisfying crunch, while the melted Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: Baking the potatoes in muffin tins creates individual portions, making them ideal for serving at a party or holiday meal. Each person gets their own delicious serving of crispy potatoes, which is not only visually appealing but also practical for portioning.
• Flavorful Layers: Each potato slice is layered with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, creating a flavor explosion with every bite. The combination of seasonings ensures that every stack is packed with taste.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients like potatoes, Parmesan, butter, and garlic, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, even though it’s incredibly simple to make.
• Versatile for Any Meal: Whether you’re serving these stacks alongside roasted meats, a hearty soup, or as part of a buffet spread, they complement a wide variety of dishes and fit perfectly into any meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12 individual stacks
• Calories per Serving: Around 180-200 calories per stack, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180-200 kcal
• Fat: 12-14g
• Carbohydrates: 20-24g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Potato Stacks:

• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Special Equipment

To make Parmesan Potato Stacks in Muffin Tin, you don’t need any specialized equipment, but the following tools will help you achieve the best results:

1. Muffin Tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin is essential for baking the potato stacks. It ensures the potatoes cook evenly and form perfectly portioned stacks. You can also use a 6-cup muffin tin for larger portions.
2. Mandoline Slicer: While a sharp knife works, a mandoline slicer allows you to cut the potatoes into uniformly thin slices. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the stacks.
3. Basting Brush: A basting brush is helpful for evenly applying melted butter to the potato slices. It allows you to control the amount of butter and ensures every slice is coated with the right amount of richness.
4. Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray: Lining the muffin tin with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray helps prevent the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
5. Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl is needed to combine the seasonings, butter, and Parmesan before coating the potato slices.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are important for seasoning, so a set of measuring spoons and cups will ensure your recipe turns out just right.
7. Cooling Rack: After baking, allow the potato stacks to cool slightly on a cooling rack to avoid them becoming soggy. It also helps them stay crispy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and washing the potatoes. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to cut the potatoes into thin slices, about ⅛-inch thick. Make sure all the slices are evenly cut so they cook at the same rate.

Once the potatoes are sliced, place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent oxidation and keep them from turning brown. Let them soak for about 5-10 minutes, then drain and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy edges when baked.

2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, grease your muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent the potato stacks from sticking.

3. Make the Seasoning Mixture

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated. The garlic powder adds a savory flavor, while the herbs bring a hint of freshness to the potatoes. The butter will help the potatoes crisp up and allow the Parmesan to melt into every layer.

4. Layer the Potatoes

Begin layering the potato slices in the muffin tin. Start by placing a few slices in the bottom of each muffin cup, slightly overlapping them to form the first layer. Brush the top of the potato slices with the seasoning mixture using a basting brush, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes, then repeat the layering process: add more potato slices, brush with seasoning, and sprinkle with cheese. Continue layering until the muffin cups are filled, and you’ve used up all the potato slices. Be sure to finish with a layer of cheese on top.

5. Bake the Potato Stacks

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on top. The edges of the stacks should be slightly crisped, and the centers should be tender. Keep an eye on the potatoes, as oven temperatures may vary.

For extra crispiness, you can broil the potato stacks for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. This will give the tops a nice golden color without overcooking the centers.

6. Cool and Serve

Once the potato stacks are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes. This allows the stacks to set and makes them easier to remove. Use a fork or spoon to gently lift the potato stacks from the muffin cups.

Transfer the potato stacks to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Potato Stacks

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for this recipe because they have a high starch content, which helps them become crispy on the edges while staying tender in the center.
• Slice the Potatoes Evenly: Uniform slices ensure that the potato stacks bake evenly. A mandoline slicer is a great tool for achieving consistent thickness.
• Don’t Skip the Soaking Step: Soaking the potato slices helps remove excess starch, which can cause the potatoes to become gummy rather than crispy. Make sure to dry them thoroughly afterward.
• Layer Generously: Don’t be shy with the butter, garlic, and Parmesan. The more layers you create, the more flavor-packed each bite will be.
• Adjust Cooking Time Based on Potato Thickness: If your potato slices are thicker than ⅛ inch, you may need to bake the stacks for a few extra minutes to ensure they cook through.

Variations of Parmesan Potato Stacks in Muffin Tin

• Bacon Parmesan Potato Stacks: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the layers of potatoes for a smoky, savory twist. The bacon will add an extra depth of flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
• Garlic Herb Parmesan Potato Stacks: For a more intense garlic flavor, increase the garlic powder in the seasoning mixture, or add fresh minced garlic to the butter. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil.
• Spicy Parmesan Potato Stacks: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix to give these potato stacks a kick of heat. This variation pairs perfectly with grilled meats or a refreshing salad.
• Cheddar and Chive Parmesan Potato Stacks: Mix in some sharp cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan for a richer, creamier texture. Garnish with fresh chives for a burst of color and flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Parmesan Potato Stacks are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later if needed. Allow the potato stacks to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

To reheat, place the stacks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for extra crispiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the potato stacks. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen potato stacks can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Parmesan Potato Stacks

Pair these potato stacks with complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal:

• Grilled Chicken or Steak: The crispy, cheesy potato stacks make an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, adding richness and texture to the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the potato stacks with a medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a balanced, satisfying dish.
• Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the potato stacks.
• Garlic Bread: For an indulgent meal, pair the potato stacks with a side of garlic bread. The garlic flavors will complement each other perfectly.

Print

Conclusion

Parmesan Potato Stacks in Muffin Tin are a delicious and visually stunning dish that will wow your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create an elegant side dish that works for any occasion. Whether served at a holiday dinner, family gathering, or casual meal, these crispy, cheesy potato stacks are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite!