Description

These Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish featuring tender baby potatoes smashed and baked to golden perfection. Coated with a flavorful blend of melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, they offer a perfect crispy texture on the outside while remaining soft inside. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, these potatoes are easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

2 lbs baby potatoes

Garlic Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated

Seasonings and Garnish

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

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Instructions

Boil the Potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them steam dry for 5 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
Smash the Potatoes: Transfer the potatoes to the baking sheet. Using a masher or a flat-bottomed glass, gently smash each potato to about 1/2 inch thickness. Be careful not to break them apart completely.
Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, and finely minced garlic until well combined. Brush this mixture generously over each smashed potato, ensuring even coverage.
Bake the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes have golden brown, crispy edges. Remember to rotate the tray halfway through baking for even cooking.
Add Parmesan Cheese: About 5 minutes before the potatoes finish baking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each potato. Return the tray to the oven for the cheese to melt and become golden.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives, and optionally sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Choose baby potatoes that are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Steaming the potatoes after boiling helps to dry them and achieve a crispier texture during baking.
You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture before brushing.
These potatoes are best served immediately but can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor.