Pecorino Garlic Potatoes over Harissa Mayo

Let me tell you, this recipe is a total flavor bomb—in the best way possible. Imagine crispy-edged, golden potatoes that are roasted to perfection and tossed in a warm, garlicky Pecorino embrace. Now picture them cozied up on a bed of creamy, smoky harissa mayo with just the right amount of heat. Dreamy, right? Trust me, you’re going to love this.

It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but is ridiculously easy to throw together—perfect for impressing friends, elevating your weeknight dinner, or simply indulging in something next-level delicious. The combo of sharp Pecorino, roasted garlic, and that kick of harissa is a game-changer. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side, or the star of your plate, these potatoes deliver serious flavor vibes.

Why You’ll Love Pecorino Garlic Potatoes over Harissa Mayo

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Whether it’s a cozy night in or an appetizer for a dinner party, this dish works beautifully.
Budget-Friendly: You likely already have most of the ingredients at home—no fancy shopping needed.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a short roasting time, you’ll have this ready in under an hour.
Customizable: Don’t have Pecorino? Parmesan will do. Want extra heat? Add more harissa.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves crispy potatoes. Add creamy mayo with a punch, and you’re golden.

Ingredients in Pecorino Garlic Potatoes over Harissa Mayo

Here’s the magic of this recipe—it’s made with simple ingredients that deliver bold, crave-worthy results.
Baby Potatoes: These roast up beautifully—tender on the inside, golden and crisp on the outside.
Olive Oil: Helps those potatoes crisp up while adding a subtle, fruity flavor.
Fresh Garlic: Sliced thin and roasted until it’s sweet and golden—adds depth and richness.
Pecorino Romano: Salty, nutty, and oh-so-good. It clings to the hot potatoes and melts just slightly.
Salt and Black Pepper: To bring everything into delicious balance.
Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich—the perfect base for the harissa.
Harissa Paste: Smoky, spicy, and vibrant—this gives the mayo its bold kick.
Lemon Juice: A bright pop of acidity to balance the richness.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and a fresh finish.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. A hot oven ensures the potatoes get that irresistible crispiness.

Prepare the Potatoes

Halve or quarter the baby potatoes so they’re all roughly the same size. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they’re not crowded—this is key for crispy edges!

Roast to Golden Perfection

Pop the potatoes in the oven and roast for about 25–30 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and crispy around the edges. Flip halfway through for even browning.

Toast the Garlic

In the last 5–7 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the sliced garlic over the potatoes. This prevents it from burning while letting it get golden and toasty.

Mix the Harissa Mayo

While the potatoes roast, stir together mayonnaise, harissa paste, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Adjust the harissa to your preferred spice level.

Finish with Cheese

As soon as the hot potatoes come out of the oven, toss them with the freshly grated Pecorino. The cheese melts slightly and clings to the hot potatoes. Yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds.

Plate and Serve

Spoon a generous swipe of harissa mayo onto a serving plate or platter. Pile the cheesy garlic potatoes on top. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy—and dig in.

How to Serve Pecorino Garlic Potatoes over Harissa Mayo

As a Side: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
As a Snack: Perfect with cocktails or a crisp white wine—ideal party food.
For Brunch: Pair with poached eggs and greens for a bold twist on breakfast potatoes.
On a Sharing Board: Include them on a grazing platter with olives, cheese, and charcuterie.
By Themselves: Honestly, they’re so good they don’t need anything else.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: You can roast the potatoes in advance and reheat them at 375°F until warm and crispy.
Try Different Cheeses: Parmesan or Grana Padano work well too.
Control the Heat: Adjust the harissa to your spice tolerance, or add a bit of honey for sweet heat.
Crispier Potatoes?: Toss with a bit of cornstarch before roasting. It adds an extra crunch.
Serving Style: Want to get fancy? Serve them in mini bowls with a harissa mayo dollop at the base.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different cheese instead of Pecorino?
A1: Absolutely! Parmesan is a great substitute and still offers that savory, salty bite.

Q2: Is harissa very spicy?
A2: It can be! Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or mix it with extra mayo to mellow it out.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
A3: Yes—use a dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan mayo for a plant-based version.

Q4: Can I use regular potatoes?
A4: You can! Just cut them into smaller chunks and follow the same roasting instructions.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Q6: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?
A6: You can, but it will be tangier and less creamy. It’s a healthier option, though!

Q7: What’s the best harissa brand to use?
A7: Try Mina or Dea for milder versions; La Kama for a smoky, deeper spice.

Q8: Can I freeze the potatoes?
A8: They’re best fresh, but yes, you can freeze them. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.

Q9: Can I add herbs to the potatoes?
A9: Yes! Thyme or rosemary tossed in before roasting would be amazing.

Q10: Can I make the mayo ahead of time?
A10: Definitely. It actually tastes better after chilling for an hour—flavors meld beautifully.

Conclusion

There you have it — Pecorino Garlic Potatoes over Harissa Mayo is truly a game-changer that turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable flavor experience. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy night in or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish brings warmth, comfort, and just the right kick of excitement to your table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds — and maybe thirds! So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this cozy, zesty delight.

Print