Description
Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are the perfect side dish with a flavor explosion from garlic and parmesan, a textural delight with crispy edges and fluffy centers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional pinch red pepper flakes
Instructions
- To start, place the baby potatoes into a large pot filled with generously salted water. Bring it to a boil and allow the potatoes to cook for 15 to 20 minutes. You want them fork-tender but not falling apart. Once cooked, drain them and let them steam dry for about 5 minutes; this step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispness later on.
- As your potatoes are steaming, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it; this will prevent the potatoes from sticking and aid in their crisping.
- Once the potatoes have steamed dry, transfer them to the prepared baking sheet. With a masher or a flat-bottomed glass, gently press each potato down until it is about 1/2 inch thick. Be careful not to smash them too hard; you want to maintain some of that delicious potato structure.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, and finely minced garlic, creating a fragrant mixture. Using a brush, generously coat the tops of each smashed potato with this buttery garlic sauce. This will infuse the potatoes with rich flavor and help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Make sure to rotate the tray halfway through to ensure even cooking. The goal is to achieve golden brown edges that are crunchy on the outside and soft inside. You’ll know they’re ready when they are absolutely irresistible!
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the potatoes. Return them to the oven until the cheese is melted and has taken on a golden hue. This final touch adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish tremendously.
- Once out of the oven, garnish the potatoes with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve the potatoes warm, and watch as everyone flock to them!
Notes
For a little more spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat them in a hot oven for that fresh crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Protein: 6 g