Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes will quickly become your go-to side dish. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and tender, creamy interior, they are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family night, these potatoes bring comfort and flavor to your table. Pair them with a delightful yogurt and dill sauce to elevate your dining experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Cheesy: The combination of Parmesan cheese and butter creates a crispy crust that enhances the flavor of the tender potatoes.
• Quick & Easy: This recipe takes only 50 minutes from start to finish, making it an accessible side dish for any occasion.
• Versatile Pairing: These potatoes complement a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes.
• Healthy Twist: Using baby yellow potatoes provides fiber and nutrients while keeping the dish satisfying without excessive calories.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, ensure you have the right tools handy. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Glass (for smashing)
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for crispy results.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy cleanup.
• Large pot: Allows ample space for boiling the potatoes thoroughly.
• Glass (for smashing): Perfectly flattens the potatoes without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

For these delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you will need:

• 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 tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Once cooked, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl or directly on the sheet pan, combine the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Transfer the boiled mini potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet. Coat them well with the butter and cheese mixture. Using a glass, gently press down on each potato until slightly flattened. If any potato sticks to the glass, carefully use a knife to help release it.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Bake in a preheated oven at 400F (200C) until golden brown and crispy. This may take around 30 minutes but check periodically as oven times may vary.

Step 5: Cool Before Serving

Letting them cool is essential; otherwise, they may fall apart when served.

Step 6: Prepare Yogurt Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together yogurt with olive oil, salt, and fresh dill for dipping.

Enjoy your flavorful Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with their delightful sauce!

How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various dishes for a delightful meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and pairs well with the cheesy flavor of the potatoes.

As a Side for Steak

• Rich and flavorful steak complements the crispy texture of the smashed potatoes perfectly.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• A mix of roasted veggies adds color and nutrients, making your meal more balanced.

Topped with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that contrasts nicely with the crispy potatoes.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.

Served with Yogurt Sauce

• Drizzle or dip in yogurt sauce to enhance the flavor with tangy notes.

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How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

For the ultimate Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, consider these helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Baby yellow potatoes are ideal for smashing, as they have a creamy texture that holds up well.
• Don’t skip cooling: Allowing them to cool after baking helps maintain their structure, preventing them from becoming mushy.
• Watch the oven carefully: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Keep an eye on them towards the end for optimal crispiness.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Fresh cheese melts better and delivers a richer flavor than pre-grated options.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more salt or other spices according to your preference for maximum flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Add bacon bits, green onions, or different cheeses for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes can elevate your meal. Here’s a list of delicious options that complement their flavors well.

1. Garlic Butter Asparagus: Tender asparagus tossed in garlic butter brings freshness and crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine and creamy dressing, balancing the richness of potatoes.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots provide a lovely contrast to savory smashed potatoes.
4. Creamed Spinach: This rich side dish adds creamy texture and is packed with nutrients.
5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite that complements the creamy potatoes.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring earthiness and flavor depth alongside your dish.
7. Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans: These savory bundles offer both texture and flavor that harmonize with the potatoes.
8. Stuffed Mushrooms: Juicy mushrooms filled with cheese create an irresistible side option that pairs beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the potatoes: Boiling the potatoes for too long can make them mushy. Aim for 15-20 minutes until they’re tender but still hold their shape.
• Not cooling before baking: If you skip the cooling step after boiling, the potatoes may fall apart when smashed. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before baking.
• Using low-quality Parmesan: Cheap cheese won’t deliver the same flavor. Opt for fresh grated Parmesan for that irresistible cheesy taste.
• Crowding the baking sheet: Placing too many potatoes on one pan can lead to uneven cooking. Give each potato space to crisp up nicely.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your butter and Parmesan mixture before applying it. Adjust salt and spices according to your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Container: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.

Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:

How do I make my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes extra crispy?

For crispier potatoes, ensure they are well-coated with butter and cheese before baking. Press them down firmly and bake at a higher temperature.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda, but remember they will alter the flavor profile.

What should I serve with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a hearty salad.

How can I customize my yogurt dipping sauce?

Add herbs like chives or parsley, or mix in spices such as paprika or cumin to create your perfect dip!

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement any meal. Their delightful crispy exterior and creamy interior make them hard to resist. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite herbs or spices; this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!