Description
These crispy garlic Parmesan smashed potatoes feature golden, crunchy edges and tender insides, made with simple ingredients for an easy, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse baby potatoes under cold water to remove dirt.
- Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook potatoes until easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes depending on size. Avoid overcooking.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
- Drain potatoes well and transfer to the baking sheet, spacing them out.
- Using a potato masher or sturdy fork, gently press down on each potato until about ½ inch thick, being careful not to smash too hard.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Drizzle the garlic oil mixture evenly over the smashed potatoes.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, ensuring each potato is well coated.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping potatoes halfway through (around 15 minutes) using a spatula or tongs.
- Remove from oven when edges are golden brown and crispy, and cheese has melted into a crust.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure crispiness. Use room temperature olive oil to avoid soggy potatoes. Fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan are key for best flavor and texture. Let potatoes cool slightly before smashing to prevent them from falling apart. For extra crispiness, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. Leftovers reheat best in a 400°F oven or air fryer for 10 minutes; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 8
Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes, garlic Parmesan potatoes, easy side dish, baked potatoes, comfort food, garlic potatoes, Parmesan cheese, crispy potatoes