Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delicious side dish made by boiling baby potatoes until tender, gently smashing them to flatten, and then roasting them until crispy. The potatoes are typically seasoned with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. As they roast, the cheese melts and crisps up, creating a deliciously crunchy, cheesy exterior while the insides remain soft and fluffy.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling
- Colander for draining the potatoes
- Baking sheet
- Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray
- Fork, potato masher, or bottom of a glass for smashing the potatoes
- Small mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds about 700g baby potatoes (red or yellow)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Place the baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Arrange the boiled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Using a fork, the bottom of a glass, or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato to "smash" them to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with minced garlic, and drizzle this mixture evenly over the smashed potatoes. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried thyme or rosemary if using.
- Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes, ensuring each potato is well-covered.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges. The Parmesan cheese should be melted and crispy as well.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer.