Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes will be your new favorite side dish. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and tender, creamy interior, they elevate any meal. Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, these potatoes are sure to impress. Pair them with a simple yogurt and dill sauce for an unforgettable flavor combination that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Cheesy: Enjoy the delightful crunch on the outside paired with a rich cheesy flavor.
• Easy to Make: Follow simple steps for a delicious side dish that requires minimal effort.
• Versatile: Perfect alongside meats, seafood, or as a main vegetarian dish.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of garlic powder and Italian seasoning brings depth to each bite.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a weeknight meal, these potatoes fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, gather some essential tools that will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Sheet pan
• Parchment paper
• Glass (for smashing)
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the baby potatoes evenly until tender.
• Sheet pan: Provides ample space for baking the smashed potatoes to achieve optimal crispiness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.

Ingredients

• 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)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (measure with your heart)
• 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 filled with water. Bring it to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fully tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Once the potatoes are boiled, line a sheet pan with parchment paper. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Place the boiled baby potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Coat them well with the butter and Parmesan mixture. Use a glass to gently press down on each potato until slightly flattened. Be careful not to break them!

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

If any potato gets stuck to the bottom of your glass while smashing, gently use a knife to release it. Brush some of the remaining butter and Parmesan mixture from the pan on top of each smashed potato. Bake in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) until golden brown and crispy, which should take around 30 minutes.

Step 5: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, allow the Parmesan Smashed Potatoes to cool slightly before serving. This step is crucial; skipping it may lead to soft or broken pieces.

Step 6: Make Yogurt Sauce

While waiting for them to cool, prepare your yogurt dipping sauce by mixing plain yogurt with olive oil, salt, and finely chopped dill in a separate bowl.

Now you’re ready to serve these delectable Parmesan Smashed Potatoes as an amazing side dish! Enjoy!

How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are versatile and can complement a variety of main dishes. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy potatoes.

As a Side for Steak

• The rich, cheesy taste of these potatoes enhances the savory profile of a perfectly cooked steak.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Colorful roasted vegetables provide a nutritious balance to the creamy texture of smashed potatoes.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top for added flavor and freshness.

With Yogurt and Dill Sauce

• This simple dipping sauce complements the crispy exterior of the potatoes perfectly.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

To ensure your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes turn out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use baby potatoes: They have a creamy texture that works best when smashed and roasted.
• Boil until tender: Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked before smashing to achieve a fluffy inside.
• Don’t rush cooling: Allowing them to cool helps maintain their structure, preventing them from falling apart.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak garlic powder and salt levels based on your taste preference.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a unique twist on flavor.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so check for crispiness to avoid overcooking or burning.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes pair well with various side dishes. Here’s a list of fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic add freshness and crunch.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the potatoes.
3. Caesar Salad: This classic salad brings in refreshing greens and crunchy croutons that complement your meal.
4. Honey Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized carrots enhance the savory notes of the smashed potatoes.
5. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The smoky flavor from bacon combined with roasted Brussels sprouts makes for an irresistible side.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a juicy burst that pairs wonderfully with crispy textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Overcooking the Potatoes: If you let them boil for too long, they can become mushy. Boil until tender but not falling apart.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: Skipping on salt and spices can lead to bland potatoes. Make sure to season generously!
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the potatoes to cool helps them firm up. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for crispiness.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or cheese won’t mix well with the warm potatoes. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before baking.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

• • Duration: They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.

Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware they won’t be as crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little olive oil for extra crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Parmesan Smashed Potatoes that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While baby yellow potatoes are great, you can use Russet or red potatoes for different textures.

How do I make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes vegan?

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

What should I serve with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I prepare these smashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can boil the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to smash and bake.

Are Parmesan Smashed Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not only crispy and cheesy but also incredibly versatile. They make a perfect side dish for any meal. Feel free to customize with different herbs or spices to suit your taste!