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Cozy Crispy Parmesan Smashed Potatoes: Best Easy Side

crispy parmesan smashed potatoes - featured image

These crispy Parmesan smashed potatoes feature a crunchy, golden crust and a soft, buttery center, made with simple ingredients like baby potatoes, olive oil, and freshly grated Parmesan. Perfect for cozy nights or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (about 680 grams) baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
  • ½ cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon (6 grams) kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon (1 gram) freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
  3. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 2 inches (5 cm). Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
  4. Boil the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain in a colander and let sit for 2-3 minutes to steam dry.
  5. While the potatoes boil, prepare the garlic oil: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it sit to infuse.
  6. Transfer the drained potatoes to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Using a potato masher or flat-bottomed glass, gently press each potato to about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thick.
  7. Drizzle the garlic oil mixture over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Roast for 20-25 minutes until edges are deep golden brown and crispy. Halfway through, rotate the baking sheet. If using fresh herbs, sprinkle them on during the last 5 minutes.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with extra salt and pepper if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Let potatoes cool slightly before smashing to prevent them from falling apart. For extra crispiness, baste with melted butter during the last 5 minutes of roasting.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes, Parmesan potatoes, easy side dish, baby potatoes, roasted potatoes