If you’re on the hunt for a dish that embodies comfort, flavor, and simplicity, look no further than Parmesan Smashed Potatoes! These little nuggets of goodness are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with the rich, nutty flavor of parmesan cheese. Imagine a cozy evening with family or friends, and these potatoes stealing the show, bringing smiles and full bellies. Did you know that smashed potatoes have become a trending favorite due to their quirky presentation and satisfying texture? They perfectly balance aesthetics and taste, making them a must-try recipe for any gathering.
In just a short amount of time, you can whip up this family-friendly side dish that pairs beautifully with almost any meal. If you love creamy Mashed Potatoes, then you’ll adore these Parmesan Smashed Potatoes! They’re not just a side dish; they’re an experience bursting with flavor. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into this delightful recipe. Let’s get cooking!
What are Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
So, what’s the deal with these Parmesan Smashed Potatoes? Why the quirky name? Well, they’re like the fun cousin of standard mashed potatoes! Instead of being whipped till smooth, they’re roughly smashed, giving you those delightful, flaky edges that soak up every bit of flavor. Think of it this way: these potatoes are living their best life, all crispy and flavorful! They remind us that sometimes, it’s good to take the road less traveled — or in this case, the potato less mashed! As they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” And these rustic yet sophisticated potatoes might very well be the key! So, grab your apron and get ready to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a celebration of flavor and texture! For starters, the highlight of this dish is the combination of tender smashed potatoes topped with a generous sprinkling of savory parmesan cheese, which caramelizes beautifully in the oven. If cooking on a budget is a bonus for you, then you’ll love that making these potatoes at home costs a fraction of what you’d spend at a restaurant, giving you more reason to treat yourself!
What sets these potatoes apart are the additional flavorful toppings you can easily customize. From fresh herbs to garlic-infused olive oil, the options are endless. Plus, the crispy edges provide an enjoyable crunch that is hard to resist. If you’ve tried classic Roasted Potatoes and loved them, then this recipe will undoubtedly become a new favorite! So, check your pantry, gather the ingredients, and let those potatoes shine.
How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Quick Overview
Making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes is a breeze! You’ll love how simple and satisfying this dish is to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can have crispy, cheesy potatoes ready to serve. The best part? The preparation is minimal, and you’ll find joy in smashing those tender potatoes and watching them transform in the oven. Let’s dive in!
Key Ingredients for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds of small potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red potatoes work best)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or parsley) for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by washing your small potatoes thoroughly. You can leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor!
- Boiling: Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain and Cool: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them rest for a few minutes to cool slightly.
- Smash Away: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet lined with parchment, place the potatoes and gently smash each one with a fork or the bottom of a glass until they’re about 1 inch thick.
- Season: Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
- Add the Cheese: In the final 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top of the potatoes and return to the oven until melted.
- Garnish: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an extra burst of flavor, if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy!
What to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes With
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled chicken for a delicious summer barbecue or roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian meal. They make an excellent complement to hearty steak or juicy roast chicken, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dinner. And let’s not forget about adding a fresh garden salad on the side to balance out your meal. Trust us, you won’t regret giving these potatoes a place at your table!
Top Tips for Perfecting Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
To ensure your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes turn out amazing every time, consider these tips:
- Choose Quality Potatoes: Opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamier texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on boiling time; you want them tender but not falling apart.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses; aged cheddar or gouda can add a delightful twist.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: Using freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch if you’re low on fresh ingredients.
- Properly Smash: Smash them enough to create crispy edges, but not so much that they become completely flat — you want that delicious texture!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be hard because they’re so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, allowing that crispiness to return. You can also lightly microwave them, but be aware that the texture may differ. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to a month. Just be sure to allow them to cool first before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
Now you’re all set to create your delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes! Enjoy the process of cooking, and most importantly, enjoy every satisfying bite!
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pounds small potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red potatoes) Waxy potatoes work best for a creamier texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Divided into two portions for baking.
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or parsley) for garnish Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash the small potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skins on for extra texture and flavor.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water, bring to a boil, and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them rest for a few minutes to cool slightly.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet lined with parchment, place the potatoes and gently smash each one with a fork or the bottom of a glass until they’re about 1 inch thick.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
- In the final 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and return to the oven until melted.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an extra burst of flavor, if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy!
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