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Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe Easy Garlic Herb Butter Parmesan

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A simple and satisfying recipe for crispy smashed baby potatoes coated in garlic herb butter and topped with Parmesan cheese, perfect as a comforting side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red), washed and dried
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mixed herbs (parsley, thyme, chives), chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried herbs)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 g), preferably freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until just fork-tender but not falling apart.
  3. Drain the potatoes and dry them on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
  5. Lightly oil a rimmed baking sheet with olive oil and arrange the potatoes with space between them.
  6. Using a potato masher or the back of a heavy spoon, gently press down on each potato until flattened to about ½ inch thick.
  7. Brush or spoon the garlic herb butter generously over each smashed potato.
  8. Press the grated Parmesan lightly onto the tops of the potatoes.
  9. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until edges are golden brown and crispy, rotating the pan halfway through.
  10. Optional: For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  11. Remove from oven and optionally sprinkle more fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Notes

Do not overboil potatoes; they should be tender but firm enough to hold when smashed. Dry potatoes thoroughly before roasting to ensure crispiness. Press Parmesan cheese gently into potatoes to create crispy cheesy patches. For extra crispiness, use the broiler for the last few minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning. Vegan and dairy-free substitutions include vegan butter and nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes, garlic herb butter, Parmesan, easy side dish, comfort food, roasted potatoes, baby potatoes