If you’re looking for a crispy, flavorful side that feels both comforting and a little fancy, this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a winner every time. Imagine tender baby potatoes that get boiled to perfection, gently smashed to create those irresistible crispy edges, and then baked with a heavenly blend of garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. Each bite offers a wonderful contrast of textures and a rich, cheesy depth that will have you going back for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or part of a special meal, these smashed potatoes will easily become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients pack the biggest punch in this recipe, bringing flavor, texture, and that perfect golden color. Each one plays a vital role in making these smashed potatoes irresistibly delicious.
- 1 lb baby potatoes: Small potatoes are perfect for smashing and ensure each bite is tender inside with crispy edges.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the crispy crust develop beautifully in the oven.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Gives a savory, nutty flavor that melts and browns to perfection.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth and a punch of flavor that lifts the whole dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby note to finish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to getting those smashed potatoes crisp and golden on the outside, while staying soft and fluffy inside.
Step 2: Boil the potatoes until tender
Place the baby potatoes in a pot of salted water and boil them for 15-20 minutes. You want them fork-tender but not falling apart. This step is crucial because it ensures the inside is perfectly cooked before smashing and baking.
Step 3: Smash the potatoes gently
Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, transfer them to a baking sheet. Using a fork or the bottom of a sturdy glass, gently press down on each potato until it’s flattened but still holds together. This smashing technique creates more surface area for crisping during baking.
Step 4: Add olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan
Drizzle the smashed potatoes evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese on top. The garlic infuses each bite with amazing aroma, while the Parmesan melts into a deliciously crisp topping that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Bake until golden and crispy
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye out for golden edges and bubbly, crispy cheese that signals these potatoes are ready to come out.
Step 6: Season and garnish before serving
Sprinkle the baked potatoes with salt, freshly cracked pepper, and a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. The seasoning and garnish truly elevate the dish and bring everything together beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only looks stunning but brings a touch of brightness that complements the rich garlic and cheese. You can also add grated Parmesan or a pinch of smoked paprika for some extra flair.
Side Dishes
These smashed potatoes pair perfectly with hearty mains like roast chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple pan-seared fish. They’re also fantastic alongside vegetable dishes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these in a rustic wooden bowl for a cozy look, or arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces such as garlic aioli or spicy ketchup. They also work beautifully as finger food at gatherings, making them a crowd-pleaser you can’t go wrong with.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them carefully to keep their crispy texture intact.
Freezing
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them after the initial baking. Place them in a single layer on a sheet pan to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen, but expect a slight texture difference.
Reheating
The best way to reheat Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe leftovers is in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes. This helps restore their crispiness without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut regular potatoes into smaller chunks to ensure they cook evenly and can be smashed easily. Baby potatoes are simply convenient for quick prep.
Is Parmesan cheese necessary, or can I substitute it?
Parmesan adds a unique nutty, salty flavor and crisp texture, but you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a similar effect.
How do I make sure the potatoes get crispy?
Boiling the potatoes until just tender without overcooking and then smashing them thinly ensures maximum surface area for crispiness. Drizzling enough olive oil and baking at a high temperature finishes the job.
Can I add herbs other than parsley?
Definitely! Fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives all work wonderfully with the flavors here and can add exciting new dimensions to your Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the combination of crispy edges, tender inside, rich garlic, and savory Parmesan that makes this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe a true crowd-pleaser. Give it a try any day you want an easy, satisfying, and delicious side that’s sure to impress. Once you make these, they’ll quickly become a favorite to serve again and again.
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Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a crispy, flavorful side dish made by boiling baby potatoes until tender, gently smashing them, then baking with a delicious combination of olive oil, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Finished with fresh parsley, these potatoes are golden, crispy on the edges, and packed with savory goodness, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 lb baby potatoes
Seasonings and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the smashed potatoes.
- Boil the potatoes: Boil the baby potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until they become fork-tender. Drain the water and let them cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
- Smash the potatoes: Place the boiled potatoes on a baking sheet and gently smash each one using a fork to create flattened potato discs.
- Add toppings: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes for maximum flavor.
- Bake the potatoes: Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the edges turn golden and become crispy.
- Season and garnish: Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add color and freshness.
Notes
- Use baby potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
- Smashing gently ensures the potatoes hold together but get crispy edges.
- Parmesan cheese adds a savory umami flavor, but you can swap it with other hard cheeses if desired.
- These potatoes are best served immediately for maximum crispiness.
- Can be reheated in the oven to retain crisp texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
