Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are like the charming, slightly quirky cousin of your typical mashed potatoes. Imagine crispy edges bursting with flavors and creamy centers that practically melt in your mouth. The aroma wafts through the air, making even the pickiest eaters perk up and take notice. It’s not just a side dish; it’s an experience that beckons to be shared.
I remember the first time I made these potatoes for a dinner party. Picture me in my kitchen, channeling my inner gourmet chef, only to realize halfway through that I had no idea how to smash a potato correctly. It was a comedy show of epic proportions! But after some trial and error, I ended up with these glorious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes that became the star of the evening. Whether you’re hosting friends or just looking for a comforting weeknight meal, these potatoes promise to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are easy to prepare and packed with flavor that will leave everyone wanting more
- Their golden-brown tops make them visually appealing on any plate, while their creamy interiors provide a delightful texture contrast
- They are versatile enough to pair perfectly with roasted meats or serve as a standalone dish at your next gathering
Ingredients for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baby Potatoes: About two pounds will do just fine. Opt for small ones as they cook faster and have a lovely creamy texture.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for maximum flavor and that fancy touch we all love.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for that savory punch—use fresh garlic if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: The star ingredient! Go for quality cheese; it makes all the difference.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely, it adds both color and freshness to your delicious creation.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing your baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender but not falling apart—think firm yet cozy!
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
While those potatoes are boiling away, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect crispy texture later.
Step 3: Drain and Smash
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them sit for about five minutes. This waiting period helps them dry out slightly—a key step! Now comes the fun part: using a fork or potato masher, gently smash each potato so they flatten but don’t turn into mush.
Step 4: Season Like You Mean It
Drizzle olive oil over those smashed beauties and sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of your grated Parmesan cheese on top. Give them a gentle toss so they’re evenly coated—think of it as giving them a spa treatment!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place your seasoned smashed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for about 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges. The smell will drive you wild!
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Remove from the oven and sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese over the top along with chopped parsley. Bake for an additional five minutes until cheese melts into gooey perfection.
Transfer to plates and enjoy these incredible Parmesan Smashed Potatoes hot from the oven! They make an excellent accompaniment to almost any protein or can stand alone as an indulgent snack when you’re feeling peckish.
You Must Know
- These Parmesan smashed potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a delightful experience
- With their crispy edges and creamy centers, they will steal the show at any meal
- Perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your potatoes until tender. While they cool, preheat your oven to 425°F. Use a fork to smash each potato gently, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cheese before roasting until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Parmesan for other cheeses, like cheddar or feta. Toss in fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic kick. You can even add garlic or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Parmesan smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F until crispy again, or use a microwave if you’re short on time.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the crispiest edges, make sure your potatoes are well-oiled before roasting
- Avoid overcooking during the boiling stage to keep them firm
- Lastly, experiment with different toppings to elevate every bite
I remember the first time I made these Parmesan smashed potatoes for a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds! Their smiles and compliments made my heart swell and my cooking confidence skyrocket.
FAQs:
What are Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish made from boiled potatoes that are smashed and then roasted to perfection. This recipe typically includes ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The combination of crispy edges and creamy centers creates a satisfying texture, making them a favorite for many. You can serve these potatoes with various main dishes, adding both flavor and elegance to your meal.
How do I prepare Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
To prepare Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, start by boiling your desired potatoes until tender. Next, drain the water and gently smash the potatoes using a fork or potato masher. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Roast in a preheated oven until golden brown and crispy. This simple method ensures you achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Can I make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes ahead of time! Prepare the dish as directed but stop before roasting them. Once you’ve smashed the potatoes and added your seasonings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast them directly from the fridge until they are hot and crispy. This makes meal prep easier without sacrificing taste.
What can I serve with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes pair beautifully with various main dishes. They complement roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even baked fish perfectly! Additionally, these potatoes can enhance vegetarian meals such as sautéed greens or hearty vegetable stews. Their unique flavor profile makes them versatile enough to accompany any meal occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
Conclusion for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:
In summary, Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a deliciously crispy yet creamy side dish that adds flair to any dinner table. With their simple preparation process and rich flavors from garlic and cheese, they quickly become a family favorite. Whether served alongside meats or vegetables, these potatoes elevate your meal effortlessly. Try this recipe today for an unforgettable culinary experience that everyone will love!
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes offer a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, featuring crispy edges and creamy centers that melt in your mouth. These flavorful bites are perfect for any occasion—from dinner parties to cozy nights in. With a golden-brown crust and a savory garlic-Parmesan blend, they make an irresistible side dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender but firm.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Drain the potatoes and let them sit for 5 minutes to dry slightly. Smash each potato gently with a fork or masher.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss gently.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese and parsley, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
