If you’re ready to take potatoes to the next level, you absolutely have to try Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes. These golden, crispy bites are the perfect mashup of soft and creamy insides with ultra-crisp, cheesy edges — all brought to life by the irresistible flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of herbs. Whether you’re serving them up for a holiday table, an easy Sunday dinner, or you just want a snack so good that people will hover in the kitchen, these potatoes will never let you down!

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes is how each ingredient works its magic with just a few fresh, easy-to-find staples. Every component plays a role in creating those perfectly crispy edges and bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll want to grab:

Baby potatoes: Choose red or yellow for creamy texture and beautiful color that crisps up just right.
Salt (for boiling): Salting the water infuses the potatoes with flavor from the inside out.
Olive oil: This gives the potatoes their golden, crunchy finish and helps all that garlic stick.
Garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic brings a punchy, savory aroma and taste to every bite.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for bringing out both the simplicity and depth of the potatoes.
Dried Italian seasoning: Just a dash delivers herby complexity that pairs beautifully with Parmesan.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan melts and bubbles over the tops, forming a salty, nutty crust.
Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and fresh, crisp finish right before serving.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Baby Potatoes

Start by placing your baby potatoes in a big pot and covering them with cold water — this ensures even cooking. Add a generous tablespoon of salt to the pot, which seasons them as they simmer. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and keep them bubbling until the potatoes are so tender, a fork slides in with zero resistance (about 15 to 20 minutes). After draining, let the potatoes hang out for five minutes on the counter; this little rest helps the skins dry out, which is key for crispiness in the next step.

Step 2: Smash the Potatoes

The real fun begins here! Transfer your cooked potatoes to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher, gently press each potato until it’s about half an inch thick. Aim for craggy little disks — those jagged edges get incredibly crunchy in the oven and are honestly the best part of Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic Oil

In a small bowl, stir together your olive oil, freshly minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. This mixture is ultra-fragrant and absolutely packed with flavor. Use a spoon or brush to slather it generously over each potato, making sure those garlicky bits find their way into all the nooks and crannies.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Sprinkle the tops of your smashed potatoes with grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t be shy — the more you use, the thicker the irresistibly cheesy crust. This is what helps create the iconic flavor of Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, so go for full coverage!

Step 5: Roast Until Golden and Crispy

Slide your tray into a preheated 425°F oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. You want those edges deep golden brown and the cheese bubbling and crisp. For extra crunch, broil for the last couple minutes (just keep a close eye so nothing burns). Finally, hit the hot tray with chopped fresh parsley if you like an herbal finish.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Garnishes

When it comes to toppings, keep it fresh and simple! A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a splash of color and a clean finish that balances the garlicky, cheesy richness. If you really want to dial up the flavor, a light dusting of extra Parmesan or even a pinch of flaky sea salt is lovely on these Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and love sharing the plate with all kinds of main courses. They go especially well with roasted or grilled meats, like juicy chicken and steak, but shine just as much alongside simple fish or a hearty salad. They’re also a fantastic upgrade from ordinary fries with burgers or sandwiches!

Creative Ways to Present

For an appetizer twist, serve your Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with a trio of tasty dips — try garlic aioli, sour cream, or a tangy herbed yogurt. Or, stack them up on a platter as a rustic side for a family-style feast. You can even top each potato with a dollop of pesto or a slice of roasted tomato for a pop of extra flavor and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extras? Store your Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They’ll hang onto their crispness quite well if you let them cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing

If you want to freeze a batch for later, arrange the cooled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. This helps them retain their shape and prevents a soggy texture when you reheat them.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in a hot oven (about 400°F) for 10 to 12 minutes, straight on a baking sheet. The air fryer is another great option for regaining that irresistible crunch! Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soft.

FAQs

Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Absolutely! Simply cut larger potatoes into halves or thick slices before boiling and smashing. They’ll still deliver the same amazing flavors and texture, just with a more rustic look.

What’s the best way to make them extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, let the boiled potatoes dry out for a bit longer and don’t shy away from a final blast under the broiler in the oven for the last 2–3 minutes. Also, make sure you generously coat each potato with the garlic oil before roasting.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Boil the potatoes in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to smash and roast. This is perfect for gatherings and holidays, making last-minute prep a breeze.

What herbs could I use instead of Italian seasoning?

Feel free to swap in whatever you love — rosemary, thyme, or oregano work beautifully. Fresh chopped chives or basil can also add a bright, aromatic touch once the potatoes come out of the oven.

Are Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes gluten free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten free as long as you double-check your Parmesan and Italian seasoning. They’re a delicious option for anyone avoiding gluten without compromising on flavor.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re making them for a dinner party, game night, or any weeknight that needs a wow factor, Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try them once and you’ll quickly find they become an all-time favorite in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to dig in and share the joy!

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Recipe

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4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

These Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a crispy, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. Baby potatoes are boiled, smashed, and roasted with garlic, Parmesan, and herbs until golden brown and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Baby Potatoes:

2 pounds baby potatoes (red or yellow)
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling)

Garlic Parmesan Topping:

3 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Boil Potatoes: Boil baby potatoes with salt until fork-tender. Drain and slightly dry.
Smash Potatoes: Flatten potatoes with a glass or masher on the baking sheet.
Prepare Topping: Mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Spread over potatoes.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle with Parmesan.
Roast: Roast for 20–25 minutes until crispy.
Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

You can prepare the potatoes ahead by boiling them and refrigerating until ready to smash and roast.
For extra crispiness, broil the potatoes for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American