Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish that everyone will love. The crispy, cheesy exterior complements the tender and creamy inside, making them perfect for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family night, these potatoes will elevate your dining experience with their rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Cheesy: These potatoes are baked to perfection, offering a crunchy crust with a cheesy flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Versatile Side Dish: They pair wonderfully with various main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
- Fun to Make: Smashing the potatoes is not only easy but also a fun way to involve kids or guests in the cooking process.
- Flavorful Seasoning: The blend of garlic powder and Italian seasoning enhances the potatoes’ natural taste, making them irresistible.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools for making these delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pot for boiling
- Glass or flat-bottomed object for smashing
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and allows for easy transfer of the smashed potatoes in and out of the oven.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making cleanup easier while ensuring perfectly cooked potatoes.
- Pot for boiling: A large pot helps cook multiple potatoes at once, saving time during preparation.
Ingredients
To make these delectable Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Potatoes and Seasoning
- 16 baby yellow potatoes
- ½ stick melted unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (measure with your heart)
Yogurt Dipping Sauce
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- salt (to taste)
- fresh dill (finely chopped, or dry dill) to taste
How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
- Add the baby potatoes to a big pot of water.
- Bring it to a boil and cook until fully tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
- Once boiled, transfer the potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Coat each potato with the butter and cheese mixture.
- Using a glass or flat object, gently smash each potato—be careful not to break them completely.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the smashed potatoes for about 30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Cool Before Serving
- Allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. Letting them cool is essential; otherwise, they may fall apart.
Step 6: Make the Yogurt Dipping Sauce
- In a separate bowl, mix together yogurt, olive oil, salt, and fresh dill until well combined.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes! Serve them alongside your favorite main dishes for an unforgettable meal experience.
How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are perfect for any meal. Their crispy texture and cheesy flavor make them a delightful addition to your dinner table. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
Pair with Yogurt and Dill Sauce
- This refreshing sauce complements the potatoes beautifully. The creamy yogurt balances the richness of the cheese.
Serve with Grilled Chicken
- Tender grilled chicken adds protein, making this a complete meal. The smoky flavors pair well with the crispy potatoes.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives enhances the flavor profile. They also add a pop of color to your plate.
Accompany with a Green Salad
- A light salad can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the potatoes. Use a vinaigrette dressing for added zing.
Pair with Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted veggies bring depth and additional nutrients to your meal. Their caramelized sweetness complements the savory potatoes.
Enjoy as a Snack
- These smashed potatoes make an excellent snack on their own. Serve them warm, straight from the oven for maximum crunchiness.

How to Perfect Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Getting your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes just right takes some practice. Here are tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
- Choose the right potatoes – Baby yellow potatoes work best due to their creamy texture and ability to hold shape when smashed.
- Don’t rush the boiling – Ensure they are fully cooked and tender before smashing, as undercooked potatoes won’t smash well.
- Use enough butter – Generously coating your potatoes in melted butter not only adds flavor but helps achieve that crispy exterior.
- Keep an eye on baking time – Ovens vary, so check for crispiness around the 25-minute mark. Adjust as necessary.
- Allow cooling – Letting them cool briefly after baking helps maintain their structure, preventing them from falling apart.
- Experiment with toppings – Get creative! Add different cheeses or spices for unique flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
If you’re looking for side dishes that pair well with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, consider these options:
- Garlic Green Beans – Simple sautéed green beans tossed in garlic provide a fresh crunch alongside the creamy potatoes.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine and tangy dressing create a classic pairing that balances richness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth and earthiness that complement the cheesy flavors.
- Creamy Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast, enhancing each bite of the crispy potatoes.
- Balsamic Glazed Carrots – Sweet glazed carrots provide color and sweetness that pair beautifully with savory dishes.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is an easy summer side dish that goes well with everything.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus lends elegance and freshness, rounding out your meal nicely.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms can be baked alongside the potatoes for an extra touch of indulgence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Parmesan Smashed Potatoes can be a joy, but there are some common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here’s how to avoid them.
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Using the wrong potatoes: Not all potatoes are created equal. Baby yellow potatoes are best for this recipe due to their creamy texture. Avoid using starchy potatoes like Russets, as they won’t hold up well when smashed.
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Over-boiling the potatoes: Boiling the potatoes for too long can make them mushy. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes, and check them frequently to ensure they don’t fall apart.
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Skipping the cooling step: Letting the potatoes cool is essential for achieving that crispy exterior. If you skip this step, your smashed potatoes may turn out soggy instead of crispy.
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Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavor. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings before baking, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
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Rushing the baking time: It might be tempting to pull them out early, but patience is key! Bake until golden brown and crispy, checking frequently to avoid burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Freeze cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
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Microwave: Place a few on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Be aware they may lose some crispiness.
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Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Add the potatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Parmesan Smashed Potatoes that might help you in your cooking journey.
How do I make my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure your potatoes have enough space on the baking sheet and consider broiling them for a minute or two at the end of baking.
Can I use different cheeses in my Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds great flavor, you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a unique twist.
What should I serve with Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?
These delicious potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a hearty salad.
Can I make these smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, store them in the fridge, then bake just before serving for fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not only a delightful side dish but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding herbs or different cheeses based on your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy these crispy, cheesy bites that everyone will love!
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish, perfect for any occasion. With their crispy, golden exterior and creamy interior, these potatoes deliver a delightful contrast in texture that everyone will adore. A simple mix of buttery goodness, garlic powder, and Italian herbs coats each potato, enhancing their natural flavor. Whether paired with grilled chicken for a hearty dinner or served alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal, these smashed potatoes are sure to elevate your dining experience. Plus, they’re fun to make—great for involving kids or guests in the kitchen! Elevate your next meal with this irresistible recipe that combines ease and deliciousness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 16 baby yellow potatoes
- ½ stick melted unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Place boiled potatoes on the baking sheet and gently smash each one using a glass or flat object.
- Brush each smashed potato with the butter mixture generously.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg







