If you are craving a comfort food that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make, you are going to love this recipe for Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes. This dish strikes the perfect balance between crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers, all coated with a fragrant garlic butter and sprinkled generously with savory Parmesan cheese. It’s the kind of side that turns simple potatoes into a standout star, making every bite utterly irresistible and perfect for any family dinner or casual gathering.

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes lies in its simple ingredients, each bringing something essential to the table—whether it’s creaminess, flavor, or texture. These ingredients are easy to find but together create a dish that feels special and satisfying.

2 pounds Yukon Gold or Carisma potatoes: Ideal for their tender texture and buttery flavor that holds up well when smashed.

Olive oil spray: Keeps the potatoes from sticking and helps achieve that golden crispiness without excess oil.
3 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic aroma throughout the potatoes.

4 cloves garlic, crushed: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory kick that is utterly mouthwatering.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a fresh, vibrant green garnish that brightens every bite.

Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
Pepper to taste: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese: Creates a crispy, cheesy topping that elevates the dish with a nutty, salty finish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by placing your chosen potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Simmer until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. This soft texture is crucial because it allows the potatoes to be smashed without crumbling apart, setting the stage for a crispy outside and tender inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

While the potatoes cook, melt the butter and mix in the crushed garlic cloves. The garlic will release its aroma as the butter melts, creating a rich, savory mixture that will coat the potatoes beautifully. Don’t forget to season this with salt and pepper to taste so the flavors are well balanced.

Step 3: Get the Oven Ready

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and give it a light spray with olive oil. This ensures the smashed potatoes won’t stick and helps them crisp evenly in the oven.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

When the potatoes have finished boiling, drain them well and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets excess moisture evaporate, which is key to getting crispy potatoes. Transfer the potatoes to your prepared baking sheet, then gently press each potato down with a fork or potato masher until it’s about half an inch thick. The aim here is to get some surface area so there can be plenty of golden, crunchy edges.

Step 5: Add Garlic Butter and Parmesan

Brush each smashed potato evenly with the garlic butter mixture, making sure every bite will be flavorful. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese generously over the top, followed by the chopped fresh parsley. The contrasting textures and flavors create a mouthwatering combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the potatoes into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for golden, crispy edges and a bubbling, cheesy crust. Once out of the oven, it’s best to let them cool just a moment to lock in the crunch but still enjoy them warm and comforting.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a natural choice, adding a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the rich garlic and cheese. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or an additional drizzle of good-quality olive oil can elevate these potatoes even further.

Side Dishes

These Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes make an ideal side for a variety of mains. Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a juicy burger. They’re also fantastic alongside a vibrant salad or steamed veggies, rounding out the meal with a satisfying crunch and cheesy flavor burst.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party appetizer, serve these potatoes on a platter with toothpicks, garnished with fresh herbs and perhaps a dipping sauce like a garlic aioli or spicy ketchup. Alternatively, layer them in a casserole dish with extra cheese and bake until bubbly for a comforting twist on the classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a convenient and delicious next-day snack or side.

Freezing

While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness, you can freeze them if necessary. Place the cooled smashed potatoes on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months, though note that reheating might alter the texture slightly.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a baking sheet. This helps restore some of the crispiness on the edges. Avoid using a microwave if you want to keep that desirable crunch, as it tends to make the potatoes soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, but Yukon Gold and Carisma potatoes are preferred because they hold their shape well when boiled and smashed. Russets can work too but may fall apart more easily.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

There’s no need to peel the potatoes; leaving the skin on adds texture, nutrients, and a rustic look that pairs wonderfully with the crispy crust.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can make a vegan version by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a vegan cheese substitute.

How crispy do the smashed potatoes get?

When baked at a high temperature with butter and Parmesan, the potatoes develop a golden and crispy exterior while remaining soft inside. This contrast is what makes the dish so delightful.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Absolutely! Rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika are great additions that complement the garlic and Parmesan beautifully, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are one of those simple comforts that feel like a treat every time. I hope you’ll give them a try and enjoy the satisfying combination of crispy edges, creamy centers, and that flavorful garlic-Parmesan blend. They’re perfect for everyday dinners or special occasions and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 24 reviews

Author: Lila

Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a crispy, flavorful side dish featuring tender boiled potatoes smashed to perfection, brushed with a garlic butter mixture, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then baked until golden and crunchy. Perfect as a savory snack or accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon Gold or Carisma potatoes

Butter Garlic Mixture

3 tablespoons butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, crushed
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Other Ingredients

Olive oil spray
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Boil Potatoes: Gather the Yukon Gold or Carisma potatoes and place them in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. The potatoes should be soft enough to smash without falling apart.
Prepare Garlic Butter: While potatoes cook, melt the butter and combine it with freshly crushed garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will fill your kitchen with a rich, savory aroma.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.

Drain and Smash Potatoes: Once boiled, drain the potatoes and let them rest for about 5 minutes to reduce steam and moisture. Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and gently smash each to about 1/2 inch thickness using a fork or potato masher. Aim for a texture with crispy edges and soft insides.
Dress and Bake: Generously brush each smashed potato with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for flavor and color. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden, crispy, and the cheese has formed a delicious crust.
Cool and Serve: Allow the potatoes to cool a few minutes before serving to help retain crispiness. Serve as a tasty side dish or a savory snack.

Notes

Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture; however, Carisma potatoes work well too.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter and omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a mild kick.

Ensure potatoes are not overboiled to avoid them falling apart during smashing.
To make this recipe gluten-free, verify the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free certified.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling, Baking

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (about 5-6 potatoes)
Calories: 220 kcal

Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 210 mg
Fat: 10 g

Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g

Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 6 g

Cholesterol: 20 mg

Keywords: garlic smashed potatoes, parmesan potatoes, crispy smashed potatoes, baked potatoes side dish, garlic butter potatoes