There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes wafting through your kitchen. Imagine crispy, golden-brown potatoes that are perfectly tender on the inside, all smothered in that irresistible garlic and cheese goodness. It’s a dish that promises to make your taste buds dance with joy and your friends beg for seconds.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
- How can I make these potatoes spicier?
- Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
- 📖 Recipe Card
On a chilly evening, when comfort food is essential, these delectable potatoes become the star of the show. Bring them to gatherings, serve them as a side dish, or enjoy them solo; they’re always a hit. The anticipation builds as they bake, filling your home with mouthwatering scents that make even the grumpiest of guests crack a smile.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any skill level
- The rich flavors will have everyone asking for your secret recipe
- Their golden appearance makes them an attractive addition to any table setting
- Plus, they are versatile enough to pair beautifully with any main dish you whip up
Gathering around the dinner table, my friends can’t resist sneaking bites before I even get to serve them. One memorable evening, I served these at a potluck, and let me tell you: they vanished faster than free samples at Costco!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Baby Potatoes: Look for firm and smooth-skinned potatoes; their small size helps achieve that perfect smash.
Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves of fresh garlic; they roast beautifully and add an aromatic punch.
Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it enhances flavor while crisping up those potatoes.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for the best texture and flavor; it melts beautifully over the potatoes.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it elevates every bite by balancing flavors.
Fresh Herbs (optional): Consider adding rosemary or thyme to sprinkle over before serving for added freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare those lovely baby potatoes. Wash them thoroughly under running water—think of it as giving them a spa day.
Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot filled with salted water, add the cleaned baby potatoes and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender but not mushy—about 15-20 minutes should do it.
Drain and Cool: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly until they’re manageable. You want them warm enough so you can handle smashing but not lava-hot.
Smashed Perfection: Using a flat-bottomed cup or your palm (with care), gently press down on each potato until it flattens but isn’t falling apart—like giving each one a little love tap.
Add the Good Stuff: Drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato generously—don’t be shy! Mince several cloves of garlic and scatter them around like confetti. Then sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top along with salt and pepper.
Bake Until Golden: Pop those beauties into your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them—they’ll start singing!
Once out of the oven, let them rest for a minute before digging in. Add fresh herbs if desired, then serve immediately while they’re still warm and gooey!
Now you have an irresistible side dish that turns any meal into something special! Enjoy every garlicky bite with family or friends—or maybe just treat yourself because you deserve it!
You Must Know
- Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are not just delicious; they elevate any meal!
- The crispy edges and creamy centers create a perfect balance
- Plus, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, making it hard to eat just one
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, then smash them before baking for maximum crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Parmesan for cheddar or add herbs like rosemary for an extra flavor punch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties
- Don’t skip the olive oil drizzle; it enhances crispiness!
- Always taste for seasoning before baking to ensure perfection
I still remember the first time I made these potatoes for a gathering. My friends devoured them so quickly that I barely got a taste!
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work great for smashing and baking.
How can I make these potatoes spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic mixture for heat.
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and store them, then bake before serving for freshness.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy edges with a creamy interior. Infused with aromatic garlic and topped with melty parmesan, these potatoes are perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish at gatherings or enjoyed solo on a cozy night in, their irresistible flavor will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup grated fresh parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly, then smash each potato gently.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes, sprinkle with minced garlic, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
