Are you ready to savor a dish that’s both rich and flavorful? Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are the perfect side to elevate any meal. With creamy potatoes topped with a crispy, cheesy finish, this recipe is sure to impress. Whether it’s for a special dinner or a cozy family meal, these potatoes will be the star. Let’s dive into the easy steps to make this tasty treat!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs baby Yukon Gold potatoes
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes need simple, fresh ingredients. The star of this dish is the baby Yukon Gold potatoes. They are creamy and buttery. I love using them because they smash well and taste great.
Next, garlic adds a punch of flavor. I use four cloves, minced, to ensure every bite is tasty. Parmesan cheese brings a rich, salty kick. I prefer using freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
For creaminess, I add heavy cream. It makes the potatoes smooth and rich. Olive oil gives a nice finish and helps the potatoes crisp up.
Finally, don’t forget salt and pepper. They balance the flavors and enhance the dish. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness on top.
When you gather these ingredients, you prepare for a delightful cooking experience. Enjoy the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Boil the Potatoes
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Next, place the baby Yukon Gold potatoes into the water. Bring this to a vigorous boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender. You can check doneness by poking a potato with a fork.
Drain and Cool
After the potatoes finish boiling, carefully drain them using a colander. Let them cool for a few minutes. This cooling step is key. It helps you handle the potatoes without burning your fingers.
Preheat the Oven
While the potatoes cool, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This hot oven will give the potatoes a nice crispy finish.
Smash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cool enough, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. With a fork or potato masher, gently smash each potato. Flatten them a bit, but keep them intact. This rustic look adds charm.
Prepare the Garlic-Parmesan Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, heavy cream, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure to season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. This blend brings a rich flavor.
Brush and Bake
Evenly drizzle or brush the garlic-Parmesan mixture over the smashed potatoes. Make sure each potato gets a good coating. Then, place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
Add Remaining Cheese and Garnish
During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. This will melt into a delicious cheesy layer. Once out of the oven, let the potatoes sit for a moment. Finish with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender. This takes about 15-20 minutes.
– Use a gentle hand when smashing. This keeps them looking great on the plate.
Serving Suggestions
– These smashed potatoes pair well with meats like chicken or beef. They also make a great side at gatherings.
– Drizzle any leftover garlic-Parmesan mixture over the top. This adds even more flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
– Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme. They can add a new twist.
– For extra crunch, consider adding crispy bacon bits. This brings a savory touch.

Variations
Garlic Parmesan smashed potatoes are a fantastic base for many twists. You can easily change the flavor to suit your taste.
Cheesy Variations
– Add different cheeses like cheddar or feta for a richer taste.
– Mix in sour cream for extra creaminess and tang.
These changes give a fun new spin to the classic dish.
Herb Variations
– Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme for an earthy flavor.
– Try adding chives for a mild onion kick.
Fresh herbs can brighten your dish and add depth.
Vegan Option
– Substitute heavy cream with plant-based cream to keep it dairy-free.
– Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a savory kick.
These swaps make the dish vegan-friendly while keeping it tasty.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
After you enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. They are best consumed within 2-3 days.
Freezing
If you want to make these potatoes ahead of time, freeze them before baking. This way, you can easily prepare a delicious meal later. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat, use your oven. This method keeps the potatoes crispy. Just pop them in the oven until warm. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but the texture may suffer a bit.
FAQs
How do I make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes crispy?
To make your Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes crispy, first, ensure your oven is hot. Preheat it to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for nice texture. Once you bake the potatoes, look for golden edges. Bake them for 20-25 minutes. This will give you that wonderful crunch.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other potatoes, but Yukon Gold is best. Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and rich flavor. They smash well and hold their shape. This makes them perfect for this dish. Other types may not give you the same result.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes pair well with many dishes. They go great with grilled meats, like chicken or steak. You can also serve them with roasted veggies. They add a nice touch to a hearty meal. Enjoy them at your next gathering for a hit!
Garlic Parmesan smashed potatoes are a simple yet tasty side dish. We covered the main steps: boiling, smashing, and baking the potatoes to achieve a golden finish. You can try various cheese types or add fresh herbs for a twist. Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze before cooking for later use. Enjoy these delightful potatoes at your next meal or gathering to impress your guests. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what you love!



