Imagine a side dish so irresistibly crispy, golden, and packed with flavor that it steals the spotlight from the main course. These Smashed Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are not just a recipe; they're a culinary experience that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet paradise. With a perfect balance of crispy edges, tender centers, and a mouthwatering blend of garlic and Parmesan, these potatoes are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry completely with a clean kitchen towel.
- Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium and simmer the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. Be careful not to overcook.
- Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them steam dry for 2-3 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer the potatoes to the prepared baking sheet. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato to flatten it, keeping it mostly intact.
- Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly across the potatoes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Make sure each potato is well-coated with oil and seasonings.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown and the cheese is melted and slightly crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with additional fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Baby potatoes or small red potatoes work best for this recipe, ensuring even cooking and the perfect smash.
- Dry is key: After boiling, make sure to thoroughly dry the potatoes to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Don't be shy with the smash: Gently press down on each potato, creating plenty of surface area for crispy edges.
- Oil generously: A good coating of olive oil is crucial for achieving that golden, crunchy exterior.
- Watch the cheese: Sprinkle Parmesan evenly and keep an eye on it during the final baking to prevent burning.
- Let them rest: Allow the potatoes to sit for a few minutes after baking to set their crispy texture.Pro tip: For extra flavor, experiment with adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
