When the sun begins to warm the kitchen and the craving for something crispy and delicious strikes, I know it’s time to whip up a batch of Baked Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Parmesan. These little gems bring together the satisfying crunch of the golden exterior and the fluffy, tender inside that always hits the spot. The aroma of roasted garlic mingling with the rich, cheesy scent of Parmesan fills the room, making it hard to resist stealing a taste straight from the baking sheet.
Not only are these potatoes a delightful side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, but they come together effortlessly, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights too. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you’ll create a dish that not only impresses but also offers a gratifying resolution to those endless takeout nights. Get ready to elevate your potato game and embrace a new go-to recipe that pleases everyone at the table!
Why are Baked Smashed Potatoes a must-try?
Crispy perfection: The unique smashed technique creates a delightful contrast between crunchy edges and fluffy interiors, making each bite a joy to savor.
Garlic-infused goodness: Roasting the garlic enhances its flavor, adding a warm, aromatic touch that perfectly complements the cheese.
Cheesy delight: A generous sprinkle of Parmesan means rich, savory notes with each potato, ensuring everyone will want seconds.
Effortless preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, these potatoes come together quickly—a fantastic choice for busy weeknight dinners.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Perfect for any gathering, everyone—from kids to adults—will adore this comfort dish, making it an instant favorite.
Elevate your meals by trying these alongside a hearty protein, and enjoy the best of homemade cooking!
Baked Smashed Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Baby Potatoes – Use waxy varieties for a creamy texture that holds up well when smashed.
• Olive Oil – Drizzle generously for crispy edges and a rich flavor; avocado oil can be a great substitute.
• Garlic – Freshly minced enhances the aroma and flavor, roasting to a sweet, caramelized goodness.
• Salt – Essential for elevating the flavors; kosher salt works best for even seasoning.
• Black Pepper – Freshly cracked offers a slightly spicy kick that balances the richness of the cheese.
For the Topping
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, nutty flavor; you can use Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste.
• Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or chives make for a bright finishing touch, adding freshness and color.
Enjoy these Baked Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Parmesan as a delightful side that brings so much comfort to your table!
How to Make Baked Smashed Potatoes
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Preheat Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps achieve that tantalizing crispiness we all love.
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Boil Potatoes: Place your baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, until they are fork-tender but not too soft.
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Drain: Once cooked, carefully drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle without burning your fingers.
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Smash Potatoes: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, space the potatoes out evenly. Using a fork or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato to smash it to about ½ inch thick.
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Season: Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with olive oil. Sprinkle them with minced garlic, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are golden and crispy.
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Add Cheese: Pull out the sheet and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese beautifully.
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Garnish: Once done, take the potatoes out and garnish them with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a vibrant finish.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic & Parmesan?
Savor the delight of a perfectly rounded meal as you pair your crispy, golden smashed potatoes with mouthwatering accompaniments.
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Grilled Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken seasoned with herbs complements the savory notes of the potatoes, creating a balanced plate. A squeeze of lemon elevates both dishes beautifully.
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Beef Tenderloin: The rich, succulent flavor of beef tenderloin adds depth alongside the cheesy potatoes—truly an indulgent pairing for special occasions.
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Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant seasonal veggies add a pop of color and nutrients, perfectly balancing richness with their natural sweetness and crunch.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The freshness and crunch of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast, making each bite a delightful experience. The creaminess also complements the potatoes beautifully.
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Caesar Salad: A light, crisp Caesar salad brings together key flavors, and the creamy dressing would harmonize well with the garlic essence.
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Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, matches the richness of the Parmesan while enhancing the comforting yet sophisticated experience.
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Homemade Gravy: A drizzle of homemade gravy over the potatoes can take your dish to the next level—rich, savory, and oh-so-comforting.
Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight, these pairings ensure your meal shines with that homemade love!
Baked Smashed Potatoes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these baked smashed potatoes and personalize them to suit your taste!
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Herbed Butter: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist that elevates the potatoes beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking for a zesty flavor that brings the heat to your savory side dish.
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Cheddar Twist: Swap out Parmesan for sharp cheddar cheese for a richer and more robust flavor profile that cheese lovers will adore.
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Veggie Boost: Top your smashed potatoes with sautéed greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition and a burst of color.
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Bacon Crumble: Crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it on top before serving to add a smoky crunch that elevates every bite.
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Creamy Sauce: Drizzle with a homemade garlic aioli or sour cream for an indulgent layer of creaminess that complements the crunchy texture.
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Tangy Alternative: Use feta cheese in place of Parmesan for a tangy, crumbly texture that pairs wonderfully with the softness of the potato.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished potatoes to brighten the dish and enhance the savory flavors with a refreshing twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Parmesan are perfect for easing your meal prep! You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper, and bake as instructed. To maintain their amazing texture, avoid smashing them too thin and ensure they are seasoned right before going into the oven to enhance the flavors. You’ll have delicious, golden, crispy potatoes ready to impress your family with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Smashed Potatoes
Room Temperature: Allow baked smashed potatoes to cool completely before storing at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them after freezing, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes for the best results and to refresh that crispy exterior.
Expert Tips for Baked Smashed Potatoes
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Perfect Potatoes: Use waxy baby potatoes for a creamy texture; they hold up better when smashed, resulting in the perfect baked smashed potatoes.
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Mind the Timing: Avoid overcooking the potatoes when boiling; aim for fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes, to prevent them from falling apart.
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Even Smashed: Smash the potatoes evenly to about ½ inch thick for consistent baking and crispiness across all your baked smashed potatoes.
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Oil Generously: Don’t be shy with the olive oil! A good drizzle ensures crispy edges and enhances the flavor profile significantly.
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Cheese Meltdown: Add the Parmesan cheese in the last few minutes of baking to ensure it’s perfectly melted without burning, maximizing flavor.
Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic & Parmesan Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for baked smashed potatoes?
When choosing potatoes, go for waxy varieties like baby potatoes, which have a creamy texture and hold up well when smashed. Look for ones that are clean, firm, and free of dark spots or blemishes. If you can’t find baby potatoes, Yukon Golds or red potatoes are great alternatives!
How should I store leftover baked smashed potatoes?
Allow your baked smashed potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge—just make sure they’re well-sealed—and they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to regain that delightful crispiness.
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Can I freeze baked smashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Once cooled, place your baked smashed potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What should I do if my potatoes fall apart while boiling?
If you’re noticing that your potatoes are starting to fall apart, it’s likely they are overcooked. Aim for fork-tender potatoes cooked for about 15-20 minutes, depending on size. If you find they are getting too soft, consider reducing the boiling time next time, and always check them with a fork before draining.
Are baked smashed potatoes suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone at your table can enjoy them. However, if you’re serving those with strict gluten sensitivities, just ensure all your seasonings and added toppings are certified gluten-free.
Can I customize the toppings?
The possibilities are endless! Feel free to experiment by adding crispy bacon bits, different cheeses like cheddar or feta, or even a sprinkle of spicy paprika or herbs like rosemary for extra flavor. The more the merrier in flavor combinations!
Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic & Parmesan Perfection
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place your baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Once cooked, carefully drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, space the potatoes out evenly. Smash each potato to about ½ inch thick.
- Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.