Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes will quickly become your go-to side dish! With their crispy, cheesy exterior and tender, creamy interior, they are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a family meal, these potatoes bring a delightful twist to classic comfort food. Pair them with a simple yogurt and dill sauce for an extra burst of flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The baking process creates a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft potato inside.
• Flavor Packed: Infused with garlic and Italian seasoning, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes complement a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these potatoes are sure to impress your guests with their deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment on hand makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Glass or flat-bottomed object (for smashing)
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for roasting and allows even cooking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Glass or flat-bottomed object: Helps in achieving the perfect smash without breaking the potatoes apart.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

Potatoes and Seasonings

• 16 baby yellow potatoes
• ½ stick melted unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
• 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (measure with your heart)

Dipping Sauce Ingredients

• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt (to taste)
• Fresh dill (finely chopped or dry dill) to taste

How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Add the baby potatoes to a large pot of water. Bring it to a boil and cook until fully tender. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Once boiled, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl or directly on the sheet pan, combine melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Transfer the boiled potatoes to the baking sheet. Coat each potato with the butter mixture. Using a glass or flat-bottomed object, gently press down on each potato until slightly smashed.

Step 4: Brush Butter Mixture

If any potatoes stick to the glass, carefully help them out with a knife. To enhance flavor, brush some of the butter mixture from under the potatoes onto their tops as well.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the smashed potatoes until they turn crispy and golden brown—typically around 30 minutes—but keep an eye on them as oven times may vary.

Step 6: Cool Down

After baking, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Cooling is essential; otherwise, they may fall apart due to softness.

Step 7: Prepare Yogurt Sauce & Serve

In another bowl, mix all ingredients for your yogurt dipping sauce. Serve alongside your crispy Parmesan Smashed Potatoes and enjoy!

How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement many meals. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Meats

• Steak – The rich flavors of grilled steak pair beautifully with the crispy texture of the potatoes.
• Chicken – Serve alongside grilled or roasted chicken for a satisfying meal.
• Pork Chops – The savory taste of pork chops enhances the cheesy goodness of the potatoes.

As a Snack

• With Dips – Enjoy these potatoes with various dips, such as ranch or spicy mayo, for a delightful snack.
• Topped with Cheese – Melt extra cheese on top for an indulgent treat while watching a movie.

In Salads

• Potato Salad – Mix them into a hearty potato salad for added flavor and crunch.
• Green Salad – Toss them in with fresh greens, tomatoes, and vinaigrette for a unique salad twist.

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How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor in your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose the right potatoes – Baby yellow potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor.
• Don’t skip boiling – Boiling until tender ensures they smash easily while maintaining their shape.
• Be gentle when smashing – Use a light touch to avoid breaking them apart too much; you want them to hold their form.
• Watch your baking time – Keep an eye on them during baking; ovens vary in temperature and timing may differ.
• Let them cool – Allowing the potatoes to cool after baking helps maintain their crispiness.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to customize the seasoning blend based on your preferences for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes make an excellent side dish. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside them.

1. Garlic Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide freshness and balance.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy potatoes.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts pairs well with the rich flavors of the potatoes.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn offers a delightful contrast to the savory smashed potatoes during summer meals.
5. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly charred asparagus brings both color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of Parmesan Smashed Potatoes beautifully.
7. Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a hearty option that goes well with any meal.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers add another layer of flavor and nutrition, making your meal more exciting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the potatoes to cool after baking is crucial. If you skip this step, they may fall apart and lose their crispy texture.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Be careful not to overboil your potatoes. They should be tender but not mushy. Aim for 15-20 minutes of boiling.
• Not using enough seasoning: Seasoning is key to flavor. Don’t be shy with the garlic powder and Italian seasoning; adjust to your taste for a richer flavor.
• Pressing too hard: When smashing the potatoes, use gentle pressure. Pressing too hard can break them apart instead of creating the desired texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your potatoes while they bake. Check them around the 25-minute mark for optimal crispiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, checking frequently, until warm. This may make them softer.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or butter until warmed and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for unique flavors.

How do I make these potatoes vegan?

To make vegan Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

What can I serve with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?

These delicious potatoes pair well with grilled meats, salads, or your favorite dipping sauces!

How can I customize my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?

Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor or incorporate spices such as paprika for a bit of heat.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly tender on the inside. They’re perfect as a side dish and can easily be customized with your favorite seasonings or dips. Try them out for your next meal; you’re sure to love every bite!