Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

These Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes from MushroomSalus are a delicious blend of crispy golden potatoes on the outside, with a fluffy interior. Infused with a savory garlic-butter mixture, finished with nutty Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, they’re perfect as a side dish or appetizer. The process is simple: boil the potatoes, gently smash them, then bake them with a flavor-packed garlic-butter mixture for that irresistible golden crisp. Ideal for sharing, these potatoes bring a satisfying flavor and texture to every bite.

Ingredients:

1½ lb baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
3 Tbsp olive oil
3 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

Boil potatoes: Place the potatoes in a pot, cover them with cold salted water, bring to a boil, and simmer until fork-tender (15–20 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
Prep & smash: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Drizzle 2 Tbsp olive oil on a baking sheet. Arrange the potatoes on the sheet and gently press each potato to about ½” thickness. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Brush garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and the remaining olive oil. Brush the garlic butter mixture onto the smashed potatoes.
Bake: Roast the potatoes at 425°F for about 15–20 minutes until they are golden and crispy underneath.
Add cheese & finish: Flip the potatoes over, brush them again with the garlic-butter mixture, and top with Parmesan cheese. Bake for an additional 8–10 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges crisp up. Optionally, broil briefly for extra browning.
Garnish & serve: Sprinkle the potatoes with fresh parsley and a pinch of salt before serving hot.

Nutrients (per serving, recipe serves 4):

Calories: ~225 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~25 g
Protein: ~5 g
Total Fat: ~12 g
Saturated Fat: ~4 g
Sodium: ~450–600 mg
Fiber: ~3 g
Sugars: ~2 g
Potassium: 420 mg

Why Garlic Parmesan Works So Well

The combination of garlic and Parmesan with potatoes is a classic for a reason. Garlic brings a rich, savory element that enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes. When roasted, garlic becomes slightly sweet and mellow, creating a beautiful balance with the saltiness of the Parmesan. The Parmesan, on the other hand, adds a sharp, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the potatoes’ mildness. Together, garlic and Parmesan transform the humble potato into an elevated dish bursting with flavor.

In addition to its flavor, garlic offers many health benefits. It contains sulfur compounds that are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help with heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Garlic also has antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress, making it a healthy addition to any dish. The buttery and crispy elements of the recipe round out the flavor profile, creating a mouthwatering combination that pairs well with almost anything.

The Versatility of Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

One of the main reasons Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes have become so popular is their versatility. They can easily be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course, depending on the meal. Here are just a few ways this dish can fit into your culinary repertoire:

Appetizer: Smashed potatoes make an excellent starter for any meal. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for dipping into sauces or enjoying on their own with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Side Dish: Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are an ideal companion to meats like roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or pork chops. Their rich flavor and crispy texture provide a satisfying contrast to the tender meat, making them a go-to side for family dinners or festive gatherings.
Vegetarian Main Dish: With their hearty texture and savory flavors, these potatoes can also stand on their own as a filling vegetarian option. Add a side salad or sautéed greens to make a well-rounded meal.
Potato Bar: For a fun and interactive meal, serve smashed potatoes as part of a potato bar, where guests can top them with their favorite ingredients like sour cream, chives, bacon bits, or even cheese. This makes the dish highly customizable and appealing to a wide range of tastes.

Simple Yet Flavorful

The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes lies in their simplicity. You don’t need to use complicated ingredients or spend hours preparing them. The recipe calls for basic kitchen staples like potatoes, garlic, butter, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese—ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Despite being easy to make, the dish delivers a sophisticated flavor profile that rivals much more elaborate recipes.

The key to making this dish is using high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh garlic, good-quality Parmesan cheese, and the best potatoes you can find. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best, as they hold their shape well and have a naturally creamy texture. By focusing on quality, you ensure that the end result will be a dish that bursts with flavor and leaves everyone asking for the recipe.

Preparing Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes for Special Occasions

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes can be a star dish at various events and gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a family meal, these potatoes add an extra touch of comfort and indulgence to your menu.

Holiday Meals: During holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas, mashed potatoes are a staple. However, Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes offer a fresh twist on the traditional dish. Their crispy texture and bold flavors bring a new element to the dinner table, impressing guests with both flavor and presentation.
Potluck Dinners: Potluck dinners are a great opportunity to share your favorite recipes, and Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit. They can be made ahead of time and are easy to transport. Plus, they maintain their crispy texture even when reheated, making them a convenient choice for large gatherings.
Date Nights: If you’re preparing a special dinner for a date night, these potatoes are an excellent choice. They are simple to make, yet their rich and indulgent flavors will make the meal feel special. Serve them alongside a well-cooked steak or a roasted chicken, and you’ll have a meal that feels like fine dining without the hassle.

Making the Dish Your Own

While the basic recipe for Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes is fantastic on its own, there’s always room for personal touches. You can customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas for variations:

Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to add additional layers of flavor. Rosemary pairs particularly well with roasted potatoes, adding an aromatic and earthy flavor.
Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago, Gruyère, or even sharp cheddar to create a unique twist on the dish.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors.
Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based butter or olive oil and use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re an experience. The contrast of crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors, the savory garlic-butter coating, and the nutty Parmesan cheese make each bite a delightful treat. This dish’s versatility, simplicity, and ability to be customized make it a great addition to any meal, whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a casual dinner. With a few quality ingredients and a little time, you can create a dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

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