Description
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish that combines the comforting texture of boiled potatoes with a flavorful topping of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Easy to make and perfect for any meal, they offer a satisfying blend of savory and cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 1 lb baby potatoes
Seasoning 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the potatoes to a crispy finish.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the baby potatoes into a pot of salted water and boil them for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender, meaning a fork can easily pierce through without resistance. Drain and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
- Smash Potatoes: Arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet. Using a fork, gently press down to flatten each potato without breaking it apart completely. This creates more surface area to crisp up in the oven.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle the potatoes evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese all over, ensuring each smashed potato gets a good coating of flavor.
- Bake to Crisp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Bake until the potatoes turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior while remaining soft inside.
- Season and Garnish: Remove the potatoes from the oven. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- For extra crispiness, use a metal baking sheet instead of glass or ceramic.
- Make sure not to over-boil the potatoes, as they might become too mushy to smash properly.
- These potatoes pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a standalone snack.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
