Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let me share my absolute favorite side dish—Parmesan Smashed Potatoes! Seriously, I could eat these little gems every day, and they never fail to impress guests. You see, there’s something magical about the combination of creamy potatoes, crispy edges, and rich Parmesan cheese that just makes your taste buds sing.
I remember the first time I made these for a dinner party. I had a few friends over, and I was a bit nervous about my cooking skills. But the moment the aroma of roasted garlic and parmesan wafted through the air, everyone came flooding into the kitchen. By the end of the night, the dish was completely gone, and I proudly declared myself a potato magician! One quick note: they pair perfectly with grilled meats, a wholesome salad, or even just on their own as a guilty pleasure!
What’s in Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Let’s break down these delightful ingredients:
Baby Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their buttery flavor and creamy texture. They’re small and tender, making them perfect for smashing!
Olive Oil: Just a splash of this liquid gold helps create that crispy exterior. I usually go for a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: You can’t have Parmesan Smashed Potatoes without this cheesy goodness! It adds a savory richness that elevates the dish. I like to use freshly grated cheese because it melts and browns beautifully.
Garlic: Ah, the aromatic superstar! Four cloves of minced garlic mixed with the olive oil take these potatoes to a whole new level.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple yet essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this green goodness brings color to our dish and a nice fresh finish.
Is Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Good for You?
Now let’s chat about health because, you know, it’s important to keep things balanced! While these Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are undeniably delicious and indulgent, they shouldn’t be a daily habit (unless you want to live on the wild side, of course!).
Baby Potatoes: They’re a great source of vitamin C and potassium. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation since they are still a starchy carb.
Olive Oil: Packed with healthy fats, it’s a heart-healthy option! However, it’s essential to be mindful of the amount, as it can add up calories quickly.
Parmesan Cheese: Full of calcium and protein, it’s a tasty form of dairy but also high in sodium and fat, so sprinkle it wisely!
Overall, these smashed potatoes can fit into a balanced diet; just savor them alongside plenty of veggies and lean proteins.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe serves about 4 people. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 pounds baby potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Ready to make your taste buds dance? Let’s get cooking!
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for getting those potatoes to crispy perfection!
2. Wash your baby potatoes and toss them in a large pot. Cover them with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Let them cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Once they are tender, drain the potatoes and let them cool a bit.
4. On a parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the potatoes so they are all in one layer. Grab a potato masher (or the bottom of a heavy glass) and gently smash each potato down until they’re flattened but still intact.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together your olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this heavenly mixture all over the smashed potatoes, making sure each one is well-coated.
6. Now, generously sprinkle that glorious grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Yes, don’t be shy; it’s worth it!
7. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy.
8. Finally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Your Potato Paradise Awaits!
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or casual gathering. They’re simple, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying! Feel free to mix and match herbs or spices to suit your taste—after all, cooking should be an adventure!
So, when you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out. I can’t wait to hear about your potato triumphs! Happy cooking! 🍽️
