These crispy smashed potatoes are packed with awesome flavors! Coated in buttery garlic and sprinkled with parmesan, they’re crunchy on the outside and soft inside—pure potato perfection!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of garlic and butter? I love serving these with dinner. They always steal the show—and my heart! ❤️ Plus, they’re super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Baby or small Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for this recipe. They have a creamy texture and hold up well when smashed. If you can’t find them, try red potatoes or regular Russet potatoes as a substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you better control over the saltiness of the dish. If you prefer a healthier option, you could use a mix of butter and margarine or olive oil for a lighter version.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is what makes these potatoes pop with flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh gives the best taste. For a milder garlic flavor, try roasting the garlic first.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness and a nice crispy top. If you need a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheeses that melt well or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, fresh chives or green onions work as great alternatives.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
Getting that ideal crispy texture is all about the details! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure to cook the potatoes until fork-tender. If they’re too hard, they won’t smash well.
- When smashing, don’t press too hard—just enough to flatten them while keeping them intact.
- Brush on the garlic butter mixture generously. This adds richness and helps with crispiness.
- Ensure the potatoes are evenly spaced on the baking sheet. This avoids steaming and allows them to crisp up nicely.
- Finally, bake them long enough until they turn golden brown on the edges. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary.
How to Make Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby or small Yukon Gold potatoes
For the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20-25 minutes in the oven. So, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these crispy potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature will help the potatoes get nice and crispy!
2. Boil the Potatoes:
Grab a large pot and place the potatoes inside. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes.
3. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
While the potatoes are cooling, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. This makes cleanup easier, too!
4. Smash the Potatoes:
Place the cooled potatoes on the baking sheet. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a sturdy glass, gently press down on each potato until it’s flattened but still holds its shape. This allows for lots of crispy edges!
5. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and olive oil. This fragrant mixture will add loads of flavor!
6. Brush and Season:
Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over each smashed potato. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes, making sure to cover each piece nicely. Season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Bake:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown on the edges.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with the finely chopped fresh parsley for a lovely finish. Serve them immediately while they’re still hot and crispy. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can substitute with red potatoes or Russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and type of potato.
How Do I Store Leftover Smashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative or olive oil, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What Can I Serve with Smashed Potatoes?
These crispy potatoes pair beautifully with proteins like grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They also make a great side dish for any holiday meal or family gathering. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables!
