Ever had potatoes that crunch just right and taste like little bites of heaven?
These Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not your average side dish. With their perfectly golden exterior, rich garlic butter flavor, and a sprinkle of cheesy goodness, they’ll steal the spotlight at your dinner table. Plus, they’re super simple to whip up, so you can focus on what really matters — enjoying your meal without a mountain of dishes to tackle later!
Why make this recipe
First off, who doesn’t love an easy cleanup? Smashed potatoes are a one-pan wonder that lets you enjoy your time with family or friends instead of scrubbing pots and pans. They’re also budget-friendly and use ingredients you probably already have on hand. And seriously, if you’re aiming to impress, these potatoes bring all the flavor without the fuss. Your taste buds will thank you, and your guests will be begging for seconds!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Let’s get cooking with these crispy delights! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and gently smash them with a fork or potato masher.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Drizzle the garlic butter over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
How to make Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes (Overview)
Making these crispy potatoes is as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as smashed potatoes? Start by boiling those babies until tender—soft and fluffy is the goal here! 🤗 Once they’ve cooled down a bit, give them a little smash; it’s therapeutic! Pour on the luscious garlic butter and sprinkle that Parmesan like you’re a cheese artist. Bake until crispy and watch them transform into golden bites of joy. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!
How to serve Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Serving these potatoes is all about creativity! You can pair them with grilled chicken, a perfectly cooked steak, or even toss them in a salad for a crunchy twist. Picture a platter of golden potatoes, topped with vibrant green parsley and salty cheese, served hot and fragrant. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in for a taste, trust me!
How to store Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Leftovers? Yes, please! These crispy gems keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just pop them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat them in the oven to restore that crispiness — nobody wants a soggy potato!
Tips to make Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Choose the right potatoes: Baby potatoes give the best texture for smashing.
- Experiment with cheese: Swap Parmesan for Asiago or cheddar for a twist.
- Add herbs: A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor beautifully.
- Make ahead: Prep the smashed potatoes earlier in the day, then just pop them in the oven when you’re ready!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? You can easily make this dish vegan by substituting olive oil for butter and skipping the cheese or using a vegan cheese alternative. Toss in some chili flakes for a spicy kick or drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra punch. Feeling fancy? Add some crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions!
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut them into smaller chunks for even cooking.
How can I make these ahead of time?
You can boil and smash the potatoes in advance, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze these potatoes?
Yes, they freeze well! Just make sure to cool them completely before storing in an airtight container.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and gently smash them with a fork or potato masher.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Drizzle the garlic butter over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.