If you are craving a side dish that combines crispy edges, tender centers, and an irresistible blend of garlic and cheese, then you must try this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe. This dish takes humble baby potatoes and transforms them into golden, flavorful bites that are perfect for any meal—from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The perfect balance of crunchy texture and rich, savory flavor makes this recipe an instant favorite that’s easy enough to become a regular in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to create the perfect Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s the creamy cheese adding a savory punch or the garlic infusing every bite with warmth and depth.
- 1 lb baby potatoes: Small, tender, and perfect for smashing to create maximum crispy surface area.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve that golden, crispy crust and adds a smooth richness.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a nutty, umami-packed layer of flavor that melts beautifully while baking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a bright, aromatic taste that pairs exceptionally well with the cheese.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning; enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and toppings.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of fresh color and herbal brightness as a final touch.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preparing the oven ahead ensures you get that perfect crispy texture as soon as your potatoes hit the heat.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place your baby potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Let them cook for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender. This step guarantees the softness inside, which contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior once baked.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly so you can handle them comfortably. Place them on a baking sheet and use a fork or the bottom of a glass to gently smash each potato, creating flat surfaces ready to crisp up in the oven.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil, Garlic, and Parmesan Cheese
Drizzle each smashed potato generously with olive oil, followed by a sprinkle of minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. This combination delivers the iconic flavor trio that makes this recipe so crave-worthy.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Bake the prepared potatoes in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Watch as they turn a beautiful golden-brown color and become irresistibly crispy on the edges, while the cheese melts into a luscious coating.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the potatoes with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped parsley. These finishing touches bring out the flavors and add a lovely burst of freshness to every bite.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is classic, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor and texture. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of garlic aioli can also elevate the dish to new heights.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with virtually any main course. Think juicy roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian mushroom dish. It’s versatile enough to complement everything from casual barbecues to elegant dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these potatoes in individual mini cast iron skillets or on a rustic wooden board sprinkled with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs. You could even turn them into loaded bites with toppings like chives, cheese sauce, or caramelized onions for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a great option for quick snacks or reheated sides during the week.
Freezing
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Place them on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This method helps them maintain texture without sticking together.
Reheating
To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven until heated through and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the edges crispy.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes! Regular potatoes can work, but they may take longer to boil and need to be cut into smaller chunks first to achieve similar results.
What type of Parmesan cheese should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor and melts beautifully, but pre-grated Parmesan works well too if you’re in a pinch.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use a plant-based oil to keep the flavors deliciously close to the original.
How crispy do the potatoes get?
The edges become delightfully crispy while the inside stays creamy and soft, creating the perfect texture contrast that makes this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe so addictive.
Can I add herbs other than parsley?
Yes! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives are excellent options that complement the garlic and Parmesan flavors wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a wonderful way to elevate a simple potato into a showstopper side dish. Its irresistible flavors, crispy texture, and easy preparation make it one of those recipes you’ll want to revisit over and over. Give it a try next time you want to impress family or friends with minimal effort but maximum deliciousness!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a simple and delicious side dish featuring tender baby potatoes smashed and baked to crispy perfection. Coated with flavorful garlic, rich Parmesan cheese, and fragrant fresh parsley, they make a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 lb baby potatoes
Seasonings & 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 your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes to a crispy finish.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a pot of salted water and boil for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the water and allow the potatoes to cool slightly for easier handling.
- Smash the Potatoes: Arrange the boiled potatoes on a baking sheet. Using a fork or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato to smash it slightly, creating more surface area for crispiness.
- Add Oil and Flavorings: Drizzle the smashed potatoes evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese over them, ensuring good coverage for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes turn golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Season and Garnish: Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant note.
Notes
- Use baby potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- For extra crispiness, use a wire rack on the baking sheet for baking.
- Can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad.
- These potatoes can be reheated in the oven to retain their crispiness.
