If you’re searching for an easy and tasty side dish, look no further! Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes deliver big flavor with simple ingredients. Imagine crispy edges, creamy centers, and a burst of garlic and cheese. In this post, I’ll share a step-by-step guide to making your new favorite dish. Let’s get cooking and elevate your meals with this crowd-pleaser! Keep reading to discover the secrets to perfect smashed potatoes.
Ingredients
To make Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes, you’ll need a few simple and fresh ingredients. Here’s the list:
– Baby Potatoes
– Garlic
– Parmesan Cheese
– Butter
– Olive Oil
– Dried Thyme
– Salt and Pepper
– Fresh Parsley
These ingredients come together to create a dish that is both easy and full of flavor. The baby potatoes provide a creamy texture, while garlic adds a rich taste. Parmesan cheese gives a nice salty kick, and butter makes everything smooth. Olive oil helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven, and thyme adds a hint of earthiness.
Use fresh parsley as a bright garnish. It not only looks good but also adds a fresh flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish special. For the full recipe, check the details provided.
Using high-quality ingredients can elevate this dish even more. Always look for fresh garlic and real Parmesan cheese. These small choices lead to big flavor. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Potatoes
First, we need to get our baby potatoes ready. Place them in a large pot. Cover them with water and add a pinch of salt. Turn on the heat and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want them tender, so check with a fork. When they are ready, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a bit. This cooling time helps you handle them without burning your hands.
Mixing the Garlic Sauce
While the potatoes cool, we can make the tasty garlic sauce. In a small bowl, combine melted butter and olive oil. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until mixed well. This sauce will soak into the potatoes, adding a rich flavor.
Baking the Smashed Potatoes
Now, let’s get ready to bake! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Take the cooled potatoes and gently smash each one with the bottom of a glass or potato masher. They should be flat but not broken apart. Place the smashed potatoes on the baking sheet. Drizzle the garlic sauce generously over each potato. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want them to be crispy and golden. Once done, remove them and let them cool for a few minutes. Top with fresh chopped parsley and enjoy! For the complete process, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Best Potatoes for Smashed Potatoes
I love using baby potatoes for smashed potatoes. They are small, tender, and creamy. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a rich flavor and smooth texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets. They can turn mushy and don’t hold up well.
Achieving the Perfect Smash
Smashing potatoes is an art. First, let the cooked potatoes cool a bit. This makes them easier to handle. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher. Press down gently to flatten them. You want them to break but still hold shape. A perfect smash creates crispy edges. Crispy edges add a nice crunch.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
To enhance flavors, use fresh garlic. Minced garlic gives a strong taste. Mix it with melted butter and olive oil for a rich sauce. Adding dried thyme adds an earthy note. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top. This makes the dish even more delicious. Fresh parsley adds a bright touch. It also makes the dish look pretty.
For the full recipe, check out the Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes section.
Variations
Cheesy Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes
For a more cheesy experience, you can add more cheese. Try mixing in cheddar cheese. This melts well and adds a sharp taste. You can also use a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella. This blend gives a creamy texture. For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Herb-Infused Variations
To boost the flavor, try adding fresh herbs. Chopped rosemary or basil can enhance the taste of the dish. These herbs pair nicely with garlic and cheese. You can also mix in some fresh chives for a mild onion taste. Experiment with different herbs to find your favorite blend.
Spicy Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes
If you love heat, add some spice to your potatoes. A pinch of red pepper flakes can create a nice kick. For more heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños to the garlic mixture. This will make the dish exciting and flavorful. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
These variations keep the dish fun and fresh. You can use the full recipe to start your journey.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After you finish your Garlic Parm smashed potatoes, let them cool down. Then, place them in an airtight container. These potatoes can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Ensure the lid is sealed tight to keep out moisture. When you want to eat them again, check for any signs of spoilage before heating.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save your smashed potatoes for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the potatoes cool completely. Next, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Smashed potatoes can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label the bag with the date.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your Garlic Parm smashed potatoes, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and add a drizzle of olive oil. This will help them stay moist. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until they’re hot and crispy again. You can also use the microwave, but the oven gives the best texture. Enjoy your delicious dish again with ease! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
FAQs
How do I make Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes?
To make Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes, first, boil the baby potatoes until tender. This takes about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Smash the cooled potatoes gently using a glass or a masher. In a bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the smashed potatoes. Top with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden. For the full recipe, check below.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use different types of cheese! Cheddar, mozzarella, or even goat cheese can work well. Each cheese adds a unique flavor. Mixing cheeses can also create a more complex taste. Just remember to adjust the amount to your liking!
What are the best serving suggestions for this dish?
Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes pair well with many meals. Serve them alongside grilled meats or roasted veggies. They make a great side for steak or chicken. Add a simple salad for a full meal. For a fun twist, serve them with a dipping sauce. Enjoy these potatoes as a tasty treat!
We explored making Garlic Parm Smashed Potatoes today. You learned about key ingredients like baby potatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The step-by-step guide helped you prepare and bake perfectly smashed potatoes.
For best results, follow my tips on achieving the perfect smash and enhancing flavors. Consider variations like cheesy or spicy options. With proper storage, your leftovers can last. Now, enjoy making this dish and sharing it with others. Happy cooking!
