Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes will quickly become your go-to side dish. They are the perfect blend of crispy and cheesy on the outside, while remaining tender and creamy on the inside. Ideal for any occasion—from casual dinners to special gatherings—these potatoes shine when served with a simple yogurt and dill sauce, making them a delightful addition to your meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The baking process gives these smashed potatoes a golden, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with their soft interior.
- Flavorful Seasoning: Garlic powder and Italian herbs come together to create a savory taste that enhances every bite.
- Quick Preparation: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, these potatoes are an easy side dish even on busy nights.
- Versatile Pairing: They complement a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes, making them a favorite for everyone.
- Healthy Twist: Using baby potatoes keeps this dish wholesome while still delivering on taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools ready. Having everything organized will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large pot
- Glass (for smashing)
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for the potatoes to bake evenly without overcrowding.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the baby potatoes until tender.
- Mixing bowl: Used for preparing the yogurt dipping sauce or mixing ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Parmesan Smashed 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)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (measure with your heart)
For the Yogurt Dipping 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 filled with water. Bring it to a boil and cook until they are fully tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Once the potatoes are boiled, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning directly onto the sheet.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Transfer the boiled mini potatoes onto the prepared sheet. Coat each potato with the butter mixture. Using a glass, gently press down on each potato until it flattens slightly but remains intact.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Place the baking sheet in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 30 minutes or until crispy. Keep an eye on them as baking time may vary based on your oven.
Step 5: Let Them Cool
After baking, allow the smashed potatoes to cool for a few minutes. This step is crucial; cooling helps maintain their structure and prevents them from becoming mushy.
Step 6: Prepare Yogurt Dipping Sauce
In a separate mixing bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, salt, and fresh dill or dry dill according to your taste. Mix well until smooth.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes alongside your homemade yogurt dipping sauce for an enjoyable dining experience!
How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Grilled Chicken
- Juicy grilled chicken complements the crispy texture of these potatoes perfectly. Add a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
As a Side for Steaks
- The rich, cheesy flavor of Parmesan Smashed Potatoes pairs beautifully with a well-cooked steak. A dash of steak seasoning enhances the taste further.
Alongside Roasted Vegetables
- Serve these potatoes with a mix of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal. The vegetables add freshness and balance to the dish.
Dipped in Yogurt Sauce
- Pair your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with the yogurt and dill sauce for a creamy contrast that elevates each bite.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add color and an aromatic touch. This simple addition brightens up the dish.
Topped with Bacon Bits
- For a savory crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top. This adds extra flavor and texture that’s hard to resist.
How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Getting your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes just right can make all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.
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Choose the right potatoes: Use baby yellow potatoes for their buttery flavor and creamy texture when smashed.
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Don’t rush boiling: Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked before smashing; undercooked potatoes won’t yield the right texture.
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Be gentle when smashing: Apply enough pressure to flatten but not too much that they break apart completely; you want them to hold their shape.
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Watch the baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on them while baking. Look for golden brown edges as an indicator they’re done.
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Let them cool slightly: Allowing the potatoes to cool ensures they become crispy instead of mushy when served.
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Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like cheese blends or flavored oils for added richness and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes can shine alongside various side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors beautifully.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil and lemon bring brightness to your plate.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the potatoes.
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, making it a perfect pairing.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor that works well with cheesy potatoes.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory smashed potatoes.
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Garlic Bread: For bread lovers, garlic bread is an indulgent choice that complements the meal well.
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Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds color and nutrition, making your meal more balanced.
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Macaroni Salad: A chilled macaroni salad offers creaminess and texture variation along with your main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the boiling step: Boiling the potatoes is crucial for achieving that tender inside. If you skip this, the potatoes may not smash properly and will be too hard.
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Not using enough seasoning: Failing to season the potatoes can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning before baking them for optimal flavor.
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Rushing the cooling process: Allowing the potatoes to cool after baking is important. If you don’t, they can fall apart and lose their crispy texture.
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Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many potatoes on one sheet can cause them to steam instead of crisp. Space them out so they bake evenly.
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Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and keep an eye on them while they bake.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently so they don’t become soggy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or butter until heated through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:
How do I make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you boil the potatoes until very tender and then allow them to cool completely before baking.
Can I use other types of cheese with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile while maintaining that cheesy goodness.
What can I serve with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
These smashed potatoes pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad as a delightful side dish.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! The recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t call for any flour. Just ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect side dish for any meal and can be customized with various herbs or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors!
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (about four pieces per serving) 1x
Description
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish, combining crispy, golden exteriors with tender, creamy interiors. These savory bites are seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, then baked to perfection for a delightful crunch. Ideal for any meal, they pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even on their own with a tangy yogurt dipping sauce. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to impress at family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 16 baby yellow potatoes
- ½ stick unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted)
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 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 baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender (15-20 minutes).
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Transfer boiled potatoes to the baking sheet; press each potato gently with a glass to flatten slightly.
- Brush each potato with the buttery mixture and bake for about 30 minutes until crispy.
- Meanwhile, mix yogurt, olive oil, salt, and dill in a bowl to create the dipping sauce.
- Serve warm alongside the yogurt sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces (approximately 180g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
