Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes will become your go-to side dish. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and tender, creamy inside, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, these potatoes bring a delightful twist to the table. Serve them alongside my easy yogurt and dill sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The smashed potatoes develop a wonderfully crispy crust while remaining soft inside.
- Cheesy Goodness: The addition of Parmesan cheese elevates the flavor, making each bite irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these potatoes ready in no time.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with almost any main course, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes.
- Dipping Sauce Delight: The yogurt and dill sauce complements the potatoes perfectly, adding freshness to every bite.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin cooking your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, gather the necessary tools to streamline your process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Sheet pan
- Parchment paper
- Glass (for smashing)
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Boils the potatoes evenly for that perfect tenderness.
- Sheet pan: Provides ample space for roasting and achieving that crispy texture.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Glass: Essential for gently smashing the potatoes without breaking them apart.
Ingredients
To create your delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 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 of water. Bring it to a boil and cook until fully tender, 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, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Transfer the boiled potatoes to the sheet pan. Coat them thoroughly with the butter mixture. Use a glass to gently press down on each potato until it slightly flattens—be careful not to break them!
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown and crispy—this usually takes around 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary based on ovens.
Step 5: Cool Down
Let the smashed potatoes cool for a few minutes after baking. This step is crucial; skipping it can result in soft potatoes.
Step 6: Make the Yogurt Sauce
In another bowl, mix together plain yogurt with olive oil, salt, and fresh dill to create your dipping sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes alongside the yogurt sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delightful side!
How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes make a delicious side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Here are some creative ways to serve them for an elevated dining experience.
With Roasted Chicken
- Pair the crispy potatoes with juicy roasted chicken for a comforting meal. The flavors of garlic and butter in the potatoes complement the savory chicken beautifully.
As a Breakfast Option
- Top your smashed potatoes with a fried or poached egg for a hearty breakfast twist. Sprinkle with fresh herbs for added flavor.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Serve alongside grilled seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate. The smoky flavors of the veggies balance perfectly with the cheesy potatoes.
Dipped in Yogurt Sauce
- Use the yogurt and dill sauce as a dip to enhance your experience. The cool, tangy sauce contrasts wonderfully with the warm, crispy potatoes.
On a Salad
- Chop the smashed potatoes and toss them in your favorite salad. They add a delightful crunch and richness, making any salad more filling.
With Steak or Pork Chops
- Enjoy these smashed potatoes as a perfect side to grilled steak or pork chops. They provide a satisfying base that complements meaty dishes.
How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Achieving perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out crispy and delicious every time.
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Use baby potatoes: Baby yellow potatoes have the right texture and hold up well during cooking. They become tender yet retain their shape when smashed.
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Don’t skip cooling: Allowing the smashed potatoes to cool slightly before serving helps them firm up, preventing them from falling apart.
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Check oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated accurately before baking. This ensures even crispness across all your potatoes.
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Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add extra spices or herbs like paprika or rosemary for an added flavor boost that complements the Parmesan well.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes can shine alongside various side dishes. Here are some excellent choices to consider.
- Garlic Bread – This classic favorite adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with creamy potatoes.
- Caesar Salad – A fresh Caesar salad brings crunch and tanginess, balancing out the richness of the potatoes.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, making your meal more wholesome.
- Coleslaw – A zesty coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that enhances every bite of cheesy goodness.
- Baked Beans – Sweet, savory baked beans create a delightful contrast to the crispy texture of the mashed potatoes.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds freshness and sweetness, bringing summer vibes to your plate.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts offer another layer of texture while complementing the flavors of Parmesan nicely.
- Macaroni Salad – This creamy side dish rounds out your meal, adding comfort alongside those delicious smashed potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can make a big difference in your dish.
- Not boiling the potatoes long enough: Ensure that you boil the baby potatoes until they are fully tender. Undercooking can lead to uneven textures when smashed.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the potatoes to cool after smashing is crucial. If you skip this, they may fall apart while baking.
- Using too much or too little seasoning: Adjust the salt and spices carefully. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes.
- Not using parchment paper: This can lead to sticky potatoes that are hard to remove from the pan. Always line your baking tray for easier cleanup and better results.
- Pressing too hard when smashing: Be gentle! Pressing too hard can cause the potatoes to break apart completely instead of creating a nice smash.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container.
- They will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Place cooled smashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or 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 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note this may result in softer potatoes.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil or butter, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, made by boiling baby potatoes and then smashing them before baking with butter and cheese.
How do I make my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure that your oven is preheated properly and allow enough space between each potato on the baking sheet.
Can I use different types of cheese for my smashed potatoes?
Yes! While Parmesan adds great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for different taste profiles.
How can I customize my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme, spices such as paprika, or even toppings like bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
Are Parmesan Smashed Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.
Final Thoughts
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also very versatile. You can serve them alongside any meal or even enjoy them as a snack. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs and spices for an extra twist. Give this recipe a try; it might just become your new go-to side dish!
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish that brings together crispy, cheesy goodness and a tender, creamy interior. These delightful potatoes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal. With their irresistible flavor, they pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a brunch option topped with a poached egg. Serve them with a refreshing yogurt and dill dipping sauce to elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
- 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
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Fresh dill (to taste)
Instructions
- Boil the baby potatoes in a large pot of water for about 15–20 minutes until tender.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Transfer the boiled potatoes to the sheet pan and coat them with the butter mixture.
- Gently smash each potato using a glass until slightly flattened.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving with the yogurt sauce made from yogurt, olive oil, salt, and fresh dill.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 smashed potatoes (about 150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
