Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic side dish. Crispy and cheesy on the outside, they remain tender and creamy within, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these potatoes will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The smashed potatoes develop a wonderfully crispy outer layer while keeping the insides fluffy and soft.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick to prepare, even for beginners.
- Versatile Pairing: These potatoes complement a wide range of main courses, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables.
- Flavor Packed: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning elevate the taste, while Parmesan cheese adds a deliciously cheesy flavor.
- Perfect for Dipping: Serve with yogurt and dill sauce for an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Using the right equipment makes everything smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Sheet pan
- Parchment paper
- Glass (for smashing)
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until they are tender.
- Sheet pan: Provides ample space for the smashed potatoes to bake uniformly.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients for the dipping sauce.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 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)
For the Yogurt Sauce
- 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 of water. Bring it to a boil and cook until fully tender. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Once boiled, line a sheet pan with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Transfer the boiled potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet. Coat them well with the butter mixture. Using a glass, gently press down on each potato until slightly flattened.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
If some potatoes stick to the bottom of the glass, gently slide them out with a knife. Brush any remaining butter mixture over the tops of the smashed potatoes. Bake in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) until golden brown and crispy—approximately 30 minutes.
Step 5: Cool Before Serving
Let them cool down after baking. This step is crucial as it prevents them from becoming mushy.
Step 6: Prepare Yogurt Dipping Sauce
In another bowl, mix together yogurt, olive oil, salt, and fresh dill. Adjust seasoning as preferred.
Enjoy your deliciously crispy Parmesan Smashed Potatoes as a standout side dish!
How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are versatile and can complement a variety of meals. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Grilled Meats
- Steak: The rich flavors of the steak pair beautifully with the cheesy potatoes.
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy chicken thighs bring out the buttery notes in the potatoes.
- Grilled Salmon: The freshness of salmon contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the potatoes.
Enjoy with Dipping Sauces
- Yogurt and Dill Sauce: A refreshing dip that adds a tangy flavor.
- Garlic Aioli: Creamy and garlicky, this dip elevates the taste of the potatoes.
- Spicy Ketchup: Adds a kick for those who like a bit of heat.
Serve as a Snack
- Topped with Cheese: Melted cheese on top makes them even more indulgent.
- With Sour Cream: A classic combination that never disappoints.
- As a Finger Food: Perfect for parties or gatherings.
How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
To achieve the best results with your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Baby Potatoes: They have a creamy texture that works well for smashing.
- Don’t Skip Cooling Time: Let them cool after baking to maintain their structure.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; ovens can vary significantly.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes can shine alongside various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they add depth to your meal.
- Garlic Green Beans: Bright and flavorful, these beans complement the richness of the potatoes.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh salad balances out the heaviness of the smashed potatoes.
- Creamed Spinach: This classic dish adds creaminess and richness, making it a perfect match.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
- Grilled Asparagus: The slight char from grilling enhances both dishes’ flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
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Not boiling the potatoes enough: If you don’t boil the potatoes long enough, they won’t be tender when smashed. Make sure to cook them until fork-tender.
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Overcrowding the baking sheet: When you place too many potatoes on one sheet, they may steam instead of crisp up. Space them out for that perfect crunch.
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Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the potatoes to cool before serving is crucial. If you skip this step, they might fall apart and lose their shape.
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Using too much seasoning: While flavor is essential, over-seasoning can overwhelm the dish. Start with a little and adjust according to your taste.
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Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven properly and keep an eye on them as they bake.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, checking frequently. This method may not retain crispiness.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat with a little oil for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:
Can I use different types of potatoes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Yes! While baby yellow potatoes are great, you can use red or Yukon gold potatoes for similar results.
How do I make my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes even cheesier?
Add more grated cheese before baking or sprinkle additional cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a melty topping.
Are Parmesan Smashed Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I store leftover Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Follow the storage instructions above to keep your leftovers fresh and delicious!
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a delightful addition to any meal. Their crispy exterior and creamy interior make them irresistible. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding herbs or spices that you love. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors!
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delightful spin on a classic side dish, perfect for any occasion. With their crispy, golden exterior and fluffy, creamy interior, these potatoes will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Simple to make with just a few ingredients, they pair wonderfully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Elevate the experience further by serving them with a tangy yogurt and dill dipping sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 16 baby yellow potatoes
- ½ stick melted unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
- 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
- salt (to taste)
- fresh dill (finely chopped, or dry dill) to taste
Instructions
- Boil the baby potatoes in a large pot of water for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Place boiled potatoes on the baking sheet and smash them gently with a glass.
- Brush the butter mixture over each potato and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow cooling slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 smashed potatoes (130g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
