Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes will quickly become your go-to side dish. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and tender, creamy inside, they offer the perfect balance of flavors. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes elevate any meal. Pair them with a simple yogurt and dill sauce for an unforgettable experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The baking process creates a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft.
• Easy to Make: Just boil, smash, and bake! This recipe requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
• Flavorful Seasoning: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add a burst of taste that complements the Parmesan perfectly.
• Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes pair well with various main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this dish fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that ensure the process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Glass (for smashing)
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until they’re tender.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space to roast the smashed potatoes to crispy perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Glass: Useful for gently smashing the potatoes without breaking them apart too much.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 16 baby yellow potatoes
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (measure with your heart)

For the Yogurt Sauce

• 1/2 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, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Spread this mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Once boiled, transfer the mini potatoes to the baking sheet. Gently coat each potato with the butter and Parmesan mixture. Use a glass to press down on each potato carefully—be gentle to avoid breaking them completely.

Step 4: Adjust Stuck Potatoes

If any potatoes stick to the bottom of the glass, use a knife to help release them. Brush some remaining butter and cheese mixture from the pan onto the tops of each smashed potato.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the smashed potatoes until they are golden and crispy—this usually takes about 30 minutes but keep an eye on them as cooking times may vary depending on your oven.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

After baking, allow the potatoes to cool slightly. This step is crucial; skipping it may result in soft or falling-apart potatoes.

Step 7: Make Your Yogurt Sauce

In another bowl, mix together yogurt, olive oil, salt, and fresh dill to create your dipping sauce. Enjoy these delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with your sauce!

With this simple recipe for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you can impress your family and friends while keeping things easy in the kitchen!

How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are versatile and can complement various main dishes. They are not just delicious on their own but also pair beautifully with many flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken breasts add a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy potatoes.

As a Side for Steak

• The crispy texture of these potatoes pairs perfectly with a tender steak, making it a hearty meal.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted veggies bring freshness and color to your plate, balancing the rich cheese in the potatoes.

Topped with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy kick that enhances the overall flavor.

Served with Yogurt and Dill Sauce

• This refreshing sauce complements the rich, cheesy potatoes beautifully, adding a cool contrast.

Paired with a Green Salad

• A light salad provides crunch and freshness, making for a well-rounded meal.

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How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Getting your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes just right can take them from good to amazing. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Baby yellow potatoes have the ideal texture for smashing; they hold their shape while becoming creamy inside.
• Don’t rush the boiling: Make sure your potatoes are fully cooked before smashing them. This ensures they mash smoothly and absorb flavors well.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic powder and good-quality Parmesan cheese contribute significantly to taste.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens vary, so check on your potatoes regularly to ensure they reach that perfect crispiness without burning.
• Let them cool before serving: Cooling helps maintain their structure; serve them slightly warm instead of hot from the oven for optimal texture.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add new ones like paprika or crushed red pepper for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes make an excellent side dish, but pairing them with other sides can create a delightful meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans: Steamed green beans tossed in garlic butter offer a fresh and vibrant contrast.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad provides crunch and zest, making it a perfect complement.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth and earthiness to your plate.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots balance the savory notes of the potatoes beautifully.
5. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach adds creaminess alongside the crispy potatoes for a comforting feel.
6. Balsamic Glazed Asparagus: The tangy glaze on asparagus pairs well with cheesy flavors, enhancing the meal’s complexity.
7. Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn brings sweetness and juiciness, balancing out richer dishes on your table.
8. Macaroni and Cheese: For those who love comfort food, mac and cheese is an indulgent pairing that everyone will enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a perfect dish. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Skipping the boiling step: Ensure you boil the potatoes until tender. This helps achieve the right texture before smashing them.

• Not using enough seasoning: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! A lack of salt or garlic powder can make your potatoes bland. Adjust to your taste preference.

• Overcrowding the pan: If you place too many potatoes on the baking sheet, they won’t get crispy. Give them space to breathe.

• Failing to let them cool: Allowing the smashed potatoes to cool slightly after baking is crucial. This prevents them from falling apart when served.

• Ignoring the oven temperature: Always preheat your oven and keep an eye on the cooking time. Each oven varies, so adjust as needed for optimal crispiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Be aware that they may lose some crispness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What type of potatoes work best for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?

Baby yellow potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and ability to hold shape well when smashed.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

Yes! While Parmesan adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda or cheddar for different tastes.

How do I make my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes extra crispy?

To enhance crispiness, ensure they are spaced out on the baking sheet and consider broiling them for a minute at the end of baking.

Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can boil and smash them ahead of time, then store and bake just before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not only delicious but versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes. You can also customize them with herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a new favorite side dish!