Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan) Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and downright addictive, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan). This recipe transforms humble small potatoes into golden, crunchy bites bursting with garlicky goodness and topped with a melty parmesan finish. The best part? It’s deceptively simple to make, but the taste and texture will make you feel like a kitchen pro. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these smashed potatoes bring comfort and elegance in each delightful crunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan) comes from a handful of simple, carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that come together beautifully on your plate.

• Small white potatoes: Choose evenly sized potatoes for uniform cooking and smashing ease.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity note and helps achieve that irresistible golden crust.
• Garlic powder: Brings a subtle but punchy garlic flavor without overpowering the natural potato taste.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to balance the garlic and cheese.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, savory finish that crisps up beautifully in the oven.

How to Make Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan)

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by placing your small white potatoes into a large pot and fill it with water so there’s about an inch covering them. Add kosher salt to the water to season the potatoes as they cook. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat and let it cook until they’re fork-tender—this usually takes about 15 minutes. This step ensures the potatoes are soft enough inside for smashing but still firm enough to hold their shape.

Step 2: Drain and Cool

Once the potatoes pass the fork test, drain them in a colander and let them cool until they’re comfortable to handle—around 10 minutes. Cooling them just enough makes it easier to work with the potatoes without falling apart mid-smash, and it also helps the oil and seasonings adhere better.

Step 3: Season and Flavor

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius) for that perfect crisping environment. Transfer the cooled potatoes to a large bowl and drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle the garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the potatoes, then gently toss everything to coat each potato completely. These simple seasonings are where the flavor starts really shining through.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

Now for the fun part—place the seasoned potatoes onto a baking sheet, spaced evenly apart. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass, gently press down on each potato until it’s about half an inch thick. The thinner you smash, the crispier they’ll get, but watch out not to tear them apart. Then pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake until the tops turn golden and crispy, about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 5: Sprinkle Parmesan and Bake Again

Once the potatoes are nice and crisp, pull the baking sheet out and sprinkle an even layer of freshly grated parmesan over the tops. Put the tray back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese and create a deliciously savory crust that adds the perfect finishing touch.

Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy

When the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, your Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan) are ready to shine. If you like, sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley on top for a splash of color and fresh aroma, then serve immediately while warm and crispy. There’s just nothing like the comfort of these crispy, garlicky potatoes fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan)

Garnishes

Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan) are fantastic on their own but adding garnishes can elevate them to star status. Try topping with chopped fresh parsley, chives, or even a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra burst of flavor. A drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil right before serving also adds richness and a beautiful glossy finish.

Side Dishes

These potatoes are versatile! Serve alongside grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or a juicy steak for a classic combo. They also pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance their golden crunch with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling playful? Arrange the Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan) on a large platter and provide a dipping station with aioli, spicy ketchup, or ranch dressing. You can even top them individually with dollops of sour cream and scallions for loaded potato bites. This recipe truly lends itself to both casual family dinners and special occasions alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan) leftover (though that’s rare), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep them as crispy as possible, place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture.

Freezing

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the smashed potatoes after baking and cooling. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, re-crisp in the oven for best texture.

Reheating

For reheating, skip the microwave if you want to keep the crispy texture. Instead, warm the potatoes in a 400 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crunchy again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, while small white potatoes are ideal for their size and texture, baby Yukon gold or red potatoes can also work well. Just be sure to select potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking and smashing.

Is garlic powder necessary, or can I use fresh garlic?

Garlic powder helps distribute a gentle, consistent garlic flavor without burning in the oven. You can add fresh minced garlic if you prefer, but add it after boiling and toss gently to avoid overpowering the dish.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Why do we boil potatoes before smashing and baking?

Boiling softens the potatoes so they can be smashed easily without falling apart. It also reduces baking time and ensures the potatoes are tender inside with a crispy exterior after baking.

How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?

Make sure to thoroughly coat the potatoes in oil and spread them out well on the baking sheet without crowding. A hotter oven temperature and smashing the potatoes thinner also help achieve that perfect crunch.

Final Thoughts

Smashed Potatoes (Garlic Parmesan) are one of those dishes that effortlessly bring joy to any meal with their crispy crust and savory, garlicky flavor. They hit the sweet spot between comfort food and elegant side, making them a go-to recipe to impress friends or simply treat yourself. I can’t wait for you to try them and discover just how addictive this easy recipe can be!

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