Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together, you’ve found it! Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are not just delicious; they are the kind of comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. The crispy edges and creamy insides create a delightful texture that’s hard to resist. This recipe is a favorite in my household because it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Imagine serving these golden beauties alongside your favorite main course or enjoying them as a cozy snack on a chilly evening. Their garlic-infused aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: These potatoes come together with minimal effort, making them perfect for any cook.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves crispy, cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the potatoes in advance and bake them just before serving for an easy side dish.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan offers an irresistible taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes:

For the Potatoes

• 1 lb baby potatoes
• 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced

For the Topping

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup grated fresh parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Variations

One of the best parts about Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes is their flexibility! You can easily customize them to suit your tastes. Here are a few fun variations:

• Add some spice: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Herb it up: Mix in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking for added flavor.
• Change the cheese: Swap out parmesan for cheddar or feta for a different twist.
• Make it vegan: Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese and skip the butter for a plant-based version.

How to Make Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, boil the baby potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until they’re fork-tender. This step is crucial because it softens the potatoes enough to smash them while ensuring they maintain their shape.

Step 2: Smash the Potatoes

Once your potatoes are tender, drain them and let them cool slightly. Gently smash each potato with the bottom of a glass or your hand. Don’t worry about making them perfect—this step creates those lovely crispy edges we all adore!

Step 3: Season and Drizzle

Now it’s time to bring in those flavors! Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle on minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Each ingredient adds layers of flavor that will make your taste buds sing!

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Place your seasoned potatoes into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and crispy. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist!

And there you have it—delicious Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes that are sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

These tips will help you achieve the crispiest, most flavorful potatoes that everyone will rave about!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for baby potatoes as they have a creamy texture that holds up beautifully when smashed and baked. Their smaller size means they cook through evenly.

• Don’t skip boiling: Boiling the potatoes before smashing ensures they are tender inside. This step creates that delightful contrast between crispy edges and a soft interior.

• Smash carefully: When smashing the potatoes, be gentle! You want to flatten them without turning them into mush. A light smash gives you those perfect crispy edges while keeping some structure.

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs a flavor punch compared to pre-minced options. It infuses the dish with aromatic richness that enhances every bite.

• Experiment with cheese: While parmesan is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses or even nutritional yeast for a twist. This can add depth and variety to your dish.

How to Serve Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

These Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes make a stunning centerpiece on any dining table. They are versatile enough to complement various dishes, so let’s dive into some serving suggestions!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes elevates the flavor profile with a spicy kick.
• Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest can bring out the flavors of garlic and parmesan, giving your dish an extra zing.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus in olive oil and grill until charred. Their smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the potatoes.

• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the rich potatoes.

• Creamy Vegan Coleslaw: This tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage and carrots dressed in a dairy-free creamy dressing adds crunch and serves as a perfect cooling counterpart.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned with balsamic vinegar and roasted until caramelized, these Brussels sprouts provide a savory note that complements the garlic parmesan flavors wonderfully.

Enjoy serving these delightful Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes at your next gathering or cozy dinner at home! They’re sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the smashed potatoes completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the frozen or refrigerated potatoes on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Have questions about making Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of parmesan in Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes?

Absolutely! While parmesan adds a unique flavor, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different twist.

How do I ensure my Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are crispy?

For maximum crispiness, ensure that you smash the potatoes well, drizzle enough olive oil, and bake them at a high temperature until golden brown.

Can I make Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative, and you’ll have a delightful vegan version of this recipe.

What can I serve with Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, salads, or your favorite protein substitute, making them versatile for any meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Baked Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes as much as I do! They truly embody comfort food at its finest, balancing creamy interiors with crispy edges. Whether you’re serving them at dinner parties or enjoying them on movie night, they’re sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!