If you are searching for an irresistible side that combines crispy edges with creamy, cheesy goodness, look no further than these Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes. This dish masterfully balances tender baby red potatoes with a rich garlic butter glaze and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese, creating a flavor explosion that is simply unforgettable. Whether you are making dinner for your family or impressing guests at a gathering, these Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any meal.

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the simplest ingredients come together to make the most memorable dishes, and that is exactly the case here. Each ingredient plays an important role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor profile of these Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes.

2 lbs. baby red potatoes: The star of the show, their tender insides and thin skins are perfect for smashing and roasting.

1/4 cup melted butter: Adds a rich, luscious moisture that helps infuse the potatoes with flavor and crispness.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic is essential here, bringing a fragrant and savory punch that pairs beautifully with parmesan.

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus 2 extra tablespoons): Parmesan offers a salty, umami-rich finish that crisps up while baking.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure every bite is perfectly seasoned.

1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity without overpowering the dish.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): Fresh parsley provides a bright, herbaceous contrast that livens up each bite.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Butter Mixture

Start by melting your butter until it’s completely liquid and warm, either in the microwave or on the stove top. Stir in the minced garlic, grated parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. This combination will fill your kitchen with an appetizing aroma that guarantees deliciousness. Set this mixture aside while your potatoes cook so the flavors meld nicely.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add your baby red potatoes and cover the pot. Let them simmer until fork-tender, about 20 to 25 minutes. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked potatoes will smash smoothly without falling apart.

Step 3: Dry and Prepare for Smashing

Drain the potatoes thoroughly and allow them to cool on a towel for about 5 minutes. Patting them dry is essential to ensure they get crispy in the oven rather than soggy. Once dry, place them on your baking surface and be ready for the fun part.

Step 4: Smash and Season the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Using the bottom of a water glass or jar, gently press down on each potato until it flattens but remains intact. This creates more surface area for the buttery garlic parmesan mixture to cling to. Then, spoon a generous helping of the butter mixture over each smashed potato, saving just a bit to drizzle over the top.

Step 5: Bake and Broil for Ultimate Crispiness

Place the baking sheet in your hot oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the potatoes and sprinkle additional parmesan cheese on top of each one. Switch your oven to broil and cook for an extra 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely so the cheese melts perfectly and develops a golden, crispy crust.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve Immediately

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. Serve these beauties immediately so everyone can enjoy the perfect combination of creamy interiors and crunchy, flavorful edges.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives are lovely garnishes that add a bright, fresh note to the rich potatoes. For a little extra indulgence, you can also sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese or drizzle a little more melted butter just before serving.

Side Dishes

These smashed potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian main like stuffed mushrooms or a vegetable gratin. Their crispy, cheesy surface and tender interiors make them a versatile side that complements many flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can serve these Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of sour cream, aioli, or spicy ketchup for dipping. Alternatively, stack them on a pretty platter and pass them family-style for an inviting, approachable feel at any dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool them completely before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Freezing

While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness, you can freeze cooked potatoes if needed. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven to regain some crisp before serving.

Reheating

The key to reheating these smashed potatoes is using the oven or an air fryer to maintain their crispy edges. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make them soft and less appetizing. Heat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crisp.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Baby red potatoes are ideal because of their tender skins and creamy insides, but you can substitute small Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes if you prefer. Just be sure they cook evenly and are not too large to smash easily.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley can work in a pinch, but fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor and better texture. Other fresh herbs like chives, thyme, or rosemary are also excellent alternatives that bring their unique notes.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a good quality olive oil or dairy-free margarine, and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor without any dairy.

How can I make the garlic flavor more intense?

For a stronger garlic punch, you can roast the cloves before adding them to the butter mixture or use garlic powder in combination with fresh garlic. Adjust to your taste preference for the best results.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can boil and dry the potatoes ahead, then refrigerate them before smashing and baking. However, to get the best crispy results, it’s ideal to combine the butter mixture and bake just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are one of those magical dishes that bring people together with their comforting texture and bold flavors. They are surprisingly simple to make but deliver a gourmet feel that everyone will love. Next time you want to excite your dinner table with something warm, cheesy, and utterly delicious, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes.

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 18 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a crispy, savory side dish featuring tender baby red potatoes smashed and baked with a rich blend of melted butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfectly golden and bursting with flavor, these potatoes make an irresistible addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

2 lbs. baby red potatoes

Butter Mixture

1/4 cup melted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons extra grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, melt the butter completely using the microwave. Stir in the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until combined. Set aside and enjoy the wonderful aroma.

Cook the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baby red potatoes, cover, and cook until they are soft when pierced with a fork, about 20-25 minutes.
Drain and Dry Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes well and allow them to cool for 5 minutes. Pat each potato dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.
Preheat Oven and Smash Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the potatoes evenly, then gently smash each one using the bottom of a water glass or jar until flattened but still intact.

Add Butter Mixture: Spoon about one heaping tablespoon of the prepared butter mixture onto each smashed potato. Drizzle any remaining mixture over the potatoes for extra flavor.
Bake and Broil: Bake the potatoes for 15 minutes until crispy on the edges. Remove the tray from the oven, sprinkle the extra Parmesan cheese over each potato, and then broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives, and serve immediately for the best taste and texture. Enjoy your delicious garlic Parmesan smashed potatoes!

Notes

Use baby red potatoes for the best texture and size suitable for smashing.
Drying the potatoes after boiling helps achieve a crispier finish.
The broiling step adds a delightful golden crisp to the Parmesan cheese topping.

Feel free to substitute parsley with chives or rosemary for a different herb flavor.
These potatoes pair excellently with grilled meats or as a comforting vegetarian side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling, Baking, Broiling

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 5 ounces)
Calories: 220 kcal

Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 540 mg
Fat: 13 g

Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g

Carbohydrates: 23 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 6 g

Cholesterol: 25 mg

Keywords: garlic smashed potatoes, parmesan potatoes, crispy smashed potatoes, baked potatoes, easy potato side dish