Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Bold Flavor Recipe

Looking for a tasty side dish that packs a punch? My Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes offer bold flavor and delight in every bite! With crispy edges and creamy centers, they’re perfect for any meal. I’ll share simple steps, easy tips, and tasty variations to make them your own. Plus, I’ll answer your burning questions about these potatoes. Ready to elevate your cooking with this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

For Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you need:

– 1.5 pounds baby potatoes

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/4 cup olive oil

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

You can add more flavor with:

– Fresh herbs like rosemary or chives

– Crushed red pepper for heat

– Lemon zest for a fresh touch

Measuring and Preparation Tips

When measuring, use a kitchen scale for accuracy. For the butter, melt it slowly to avoid burning. Minced garlic should be fine, but not too small. If you want a stronger garlic flavor, use more cloves. For the potatoes, choose ones that are uniform in size for even cooking. Always taste your garlic mixture before pouring it on the potatoes. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Potatoes

Start by washing 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes. Make sure they are clean. Place them in a large pot. Cover the potatoes with salted water. Bring the pot to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15 to 20 minutes. They should be tender enough to pierce with a fork. Once done, drain them carefully. Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle.

Making the Garlic Mixture

While the potatoes cool, prepare the garlic mixture. In a small bowl, combine 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and half of the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until it’s smooth. This mixture gives the potatoes a bold flavor.

Baking and Finishing Touches

Now it’s time to smash the potatoes. On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place the cooled potatoes. Use the bottom of a glass or a fork to gently smash each one. You want them flattened but not broken apart. Drizzle the garlic mixture over the smashed potatoes evenly. Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste. Next, add the remaining Parmesan cheese on top of each potato. Bake in the preheated oven at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes. You want them golden and crispy. Once baked, take them out and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Smash

To get that ideal smashed potato, cook them just right. You want them soft enough to pierce easily with a fork. Boil the baby potatoes until tender, around 15-20 minutes. After boiling, let them cool for a few minutes. This cooling time helps keep them together when you smash them. Use a fork or a glass to press down gently. Smash them until they are flattened but still hold their shape.

Ensuring Crispy Potatoes

Crispy edges make all the difference. To achieve this, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). The high heat helps create that golden, crunchy texture. Drizzle the garlic mixture over the smashed potatoes, and don’t hold back on the olive oil and melted butter. These fats help them crisp up nicely. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. If you notice they are not crispy enough, broil them for a minute or two at the end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is not seasoning enough. Salt and black pepper enhance the flavor. Always taste the garlic mixture before pouring it over the potatoes. Another mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet. Give each potato enough space to crisp up. If they are too close together, they will steam instead of bake. Finally, don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish. It adds a nice pop of color and flavor!

Variations

Adding Fresh Herbs or Spices

You can boost flavor by adding fresh herbs. Try rosemary or basil for a twist. Fresh chives also work well. Just chop them finely and mix them into the garlic blend. If you want heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This gives the dish a nice kick.

Cheese Substitutes and Additions

If you want to change up the cheese, use cheddar or feta. These cheeses add unique flavors. You can mix cheeses too! Combine Parmesan with Gruyère for a rich taste. For a creamier texture, try adding cream cheese. It melts beautifully and makes the potatoes extra smooth.

Vegan Adaptations

To make these potatoes vegan, replace butter with vegan butter. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. You can also add a splash of plant-based milk for creaminess. This keeps the dish rich and tasty without any animal products.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, place the smashed potatoes in an airtight container. Make sure they cool first. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating, take the potatoes out of the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This will keep them crispy and warm. You can also use the microwave, but they may lose some crispiness.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

To freeze these potatoes, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can freeze for up to two months. When you want to eat them, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes. I love baby potatoes for their size and taste. You can also use russets or Yukon golds. Just keep in mind that cooking times may change. Larger potatoes will need more time to boil. Make sure they are tender enough to smash.

How do I make these potatoes ahead of time?

To prepare these potatoes ahead, cook and smash them first. Let them cool fully after boiling. Then, store them covered in the fridge. You can add the garlic mixture right before baking. This way, you save time on the day you plan to serve them. Just bake them for about 25 minutes to reheat.

Can I add more garlic or cheese for extra flavor?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, use more than four cloves. Minced garlic adds a great flavor. For cheese lovers, feel free to double the Parmesan. You can also mix in other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. Just remember to keep the balance so the potatoes stay mushy and not dry.

We covered all you need for garlic parmesan smashed potatoes. You learned about key ingredients, helpful tips, and tasty variations. This dish is simple and fun to make, with room for your own twist. Remember to avoid common mistakes for the best results. With proper storage, you can enjoy leftovers too. Now, it’s time to try this recipe and impress everyone with your cooking skill