Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes will quickly become your go-to side dish. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and tender, creamy interior, they’re perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Pair them with a simple yogurt and dill sauce, and you’ve got a standout dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The baking process creates a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft potatoes inside.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Parmesan cheese and garlic powder infuses each bite with deliciousness.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these smashed potatoes are quick to make.
- Versatile Side Dish: They pair well with virtually any main course, making them a great addition to your meal rotation.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Sheet pan
- Parchment paper
- Pot for boiling
- Glass or flat object for smashing
Importance of Each Tool
- Sheet pan: Provides a sturdy base for baking your potatoes evenly while allowing excess moisture to escape.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Pot for boiling: Ensures even cooking by providing ample space for the potatoes to move around in boiling water.
- Glass or flat object: Perfect for gently smashing the potatoes without breaking them apart too much.
Ingredients
For these delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you will need:
- 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)
- ½ 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 over high heat.
Boil until fully cooked and tender; this usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
While the potatoes are boiling, prepare your baking sheet.
Line it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Once boiled, transfer the baby potatoes onto the prepared sheet pan.
Coat each potato thoroughly with the butter and cheese mixture.
Using a glass or flat object, gently press down on each potato until slightly smashed.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake the smashed potatoes for about 30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them as oven times may vary.
Step 5: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let the potatoes cool on the baking sheet.
Cooling is essential; otherwise, they may fall apart when served.
Step 6: Make the Yogurt Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together plain yogurt, olive oil, salt, and fresh dill.
Adjust seasoning according to taste.
Enjoy these crispy Parmesan Smashed Potatoes hot from the oven alongside your favorite main dish!
How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Their crispy exterior and creamy interior make them versatile for various occasions.
With Grilled Meats
- Steak: The rich flavors of steak pair beautifully with the cheesy potatoes, creating a satisfying meal.
- Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken complements the texture of the smashed potatoes, making for a hearty dinner.
As Part of a Salad
- Caesar Salad: Toss these potatoes into a Caesar salad for added crunch and flavor.
- Mixed Greens: Serve alongside a fresh mixed green salad for balance and freshness.
With Dipping Sauces
- Yogurt and Dill Sauce: This tangy dip enhances the flavors of the potatoes while keeping it light.
- Garlic Aioli: A rich garlic aioli serves as an indulgent option for those who love bold flavors.
For Sunday Brunch
- Eggs Benedict: Pairing these potatoes with Eggs Benedict creates a luxurious brunch experience.
- Omelets: Crispy smashed potatoes alongside fluffy omelets make for a comforting breakfast spread.
How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, follow these essential tips.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby yellow potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape when smashed.
- Don’t Skip Cooling Time: Allowing the potatoes to cool before serving helps maintain their structure and prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better than pre-grated varieties, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Monitor Baking Time: Ovens vary; keep an eye on your potatoes to ensure they reach crispy perfection without burning.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to customize the flavor profile according to your taste preferences.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes pair well with numerous side dishes, making them a flexible choice for any meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw pairs nicely with the soft texture of smashed potatoes, offering contrast.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of the potatoes perfectly during summer barbecues.
- Garlic Bread: For a carb lover’s dream, serve with buttery garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans balances well with salty, cheesy smashed potatoes.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a nutritious green element that brightens up your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Not boiling the potatoes long enough: If you don’t boil the potatoes until they are tender, they won’t smash properly. Ensure they are fully cooked before proceeding.
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Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many potatoes on one pan can lead to uneven cooking. Give each potato enough space to crisp up nicely.
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Skipping the cooling step: Letting the potatoes cool before serving is crucial. If you skip this step, they may fall apart when you try to handle them.
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Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting the seasoning is important. Everyone’s palate is different, so add salt and spices according to your preference.
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Forgetting to use parchment paper: Not lining your baking sheet with parchment can lead to sticking. Always use parchment for easy cleanup and perfect texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
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Microwave: Place potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
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Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through and slightly crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:
Can I make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them ahead by boiling and smashing the potatoes. Bake them just before serving for optimal crispness.
What type of potatoes work best for smashed potatoes?
Baby yellow potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture when cooked. However, you can also use other waxy varieties like red potatoes.
How can I customize my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Feel free to add herbs or spices! Fresh rosemary or thyme pairs wonderfully with these crispy delights.
Can I make these smashed potatoes vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter and skip the yogurt sauce or replace it with a vegan alternative.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are an irresistible side dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various herbs and sauces, making them suitable for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful crunch paired with creamy goodness!
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a must-try side dish that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with a tender interior. Perfect for any occasion, these delightful potatoes are easy to prepare and pair beautifully with various main courses. The rich flavor of Parmesan cheese and garlic, along with a simple yogurt and dill sauce, creates a standout dish that everyone will love. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these smashed potatoes will quickly become your go-to recipe for comfort food.
Ingredients
- 16 baby yellow potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Fresh dill (to taste)
Instructions
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and let cool.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Transfer boiled potatoes to the baking sheet; smash each potato gently with a flat object.
- Coat each smashed potato with the butter mixture.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- For the yogurt sauce, combine yogurt, olive oil, salt, and fresh dill in another bowl.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 smashed potatoes (about 180g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
