Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Name: Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 baby yellow potatoes; ½ stick melted unsalted butter (4 tablespoons); 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or oregano); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup plain yogurt; 1 teaspoon olive oil; Fresh dill (finely chopped, or dried) to taste

Published: June 30, 2025

by Olivia

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These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are sure to become your go-to side dish. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and creamy interior, they are the perfect addition to any meal. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes will impress everyone at the table. Pair them with a simple yogurt and dill sauce for an added burst of flavor that complements their deliciousness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Delight: Enjoy a satisfying crunch with every bite, thanks to the Parmesan cheese coating.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for beginners.
Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a snack on their own.
Customizable Flavor: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of garlic and cheese makes these potatoes irresistible for any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen for cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Large pot
Glass (for smashing)
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting, ensuring all potatoes cook uniformly.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless after baking.
Large pot: Perfect for boiling the potatoes comfortably without overcrowding.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:

16 baby yellow potatoes
½ stick melted unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup plain yogurt
1 teaspoon olive oil
salt (to taste)
fresh dill (finely chopped, or dry dill) to taste

How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Add the baby potatoes to a large pot of water. Bring it to a boil and let it cook until fully tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Once the potatoes are cooked, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Transfer the boiled mini potatoes to the prepared baking sheet. Coat them well with the butter and cheese mixture. Take a glass and gently press down on each potato; be careful not to break them.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

If any potato pieces get stuck on the glass, use a knife gently to help release them. Brush some extra butter and cheese mixture over the tops of smashed potatoes for added flavor. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until they turn golden brown and crispy—this typically takes about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Cool Down

Allow your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes to cool slightly before serving. This step is important as cooling helps them hold their shape better.

Step 6: Make Yogurt Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together plain yogurt with olive oil, salt, and chopped fresh dill to create a tasty dipping sauce. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken thighs or breasts complement the crispy texture of the potatoes perfectly, adding protein to your meal.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

Serve these potatoes with a medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini for a colorful plate packed with nutrients.

Topped with Sour Cream

A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy richness that enhances the flavors of the Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, making for a comforting dish.

Paired with Steak

The savory taste of steak contrasts beautifully with the cheesy potatoes, creating a filling and satisfying dinner option.

As a Base for Saucy Dishes

Use these smashed potatoes as a base for saucy dishes like beef stew or mushroom gravy, soaking up all that delicious flavor.

With Fresh Herbs

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added burst of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese.

How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor in your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, keep these tips in mind.

Choose the right potatoes: Baby yellow potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture; they hold up well during cooking.
Don’t rush the boiling: Ensure you boil the potatoes until they are tender. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect smash.
Use enough butter: Coating the potatoes generously in melted butter adds flavor and helps create that crispy exterior.
Let them cool before serving: Allowing them to cool slightly prevents them from falling apart when handled, keeping their shape intact.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for more ideas to complete your meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes.

Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic provide a fresh and vibrant contrast.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that complements the rich flavors of the potatoes.
Creamed Spinach: This creamy side pairs beautifully, offering a rich texture alongside cheesy smashed potatoes.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness that balances out savory flavors on your plate.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the potatoes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add depth and an earthy flavor, enhancing your overall meal experience.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings bright flavors and is an easy-to-make side dish everyone loves.
Baked Beans: Savory baked beans add heartiness and sweetness, making them an excellent pairing for any meal featuring smashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the boiling step: Boiling the potatoes until tender is crucial. Skipping this step can result in hard centers that won’t smash properly.
Not cooling the potatoes: Allowing the smashed potatoes to cool is essential. If you skip this, they may fall apart and lose their crispy texture during baking.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many potatoes on a single sheet pan can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Make sure they have space to breathe!
Using cold butter: Mixing cold butter with the cheese and seasonings can prevent an even coating on the potatoes. Always use melted butter for better results.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your mixture before applying it to the potatoes. Adjust salt and spice levels based on your preference to enhance flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, checking often, for about 1-2 minutes.
Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Parmesan Smashed Potatoes special?

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are loved for their crispy outside and creamy inside, combining textures that delight any palate.

Can I customize my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences, such as rosemary or paprika.

How do I ensure my potatoes are crispy?

To achieve crispiness, make sure they are properly boiled first and allow them to cool before baking.

Are Parmesan Smashed Potatoes vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.

Final Thoughts

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors that make them an irresistible side dish. They’re perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices to make them uniquely yours!