Name: Crispy Parmesan Smashed Potatoes That Will Change Your Side Dish Game
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well); 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor

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Introduction

If you’re tired of the same old side dishes, it’s time to shake things up with a recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Our Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are not just any side dish; they are crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal at home, these smashed potatoes will take center stage on your plate. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to change your side dish game forever!

Ingredients

To create the perfect batch of crispy Parmesan smashed potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor

Timing

This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous amount of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature will give your smashed potatoes that desired crispy exterior.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the potatoes on the baking sheet and use a potato masher or fork to gently smash each potato until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. Be careful not to flatten them too much; you want them to retain some shape.

Step 4: Season and Add Cheese

Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed potatoes, ensuring each one is coated. Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Finally, generously top each potato with grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while they are still warm and crispy. Enjoy your delicious Parmesan smashed potatoes!

Nutritional Information

Here is a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 320
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish without sacrificing flavor, consider the following healthier alternatives:

Use less olive oil or substitute it with a cooking spray to reduce fat.
Opt for low-fat or reduced-fat Parmesan cheese.
Incorporate herbs and spices like rosemary or thyme instead of cheese for added flavor without the calories.

Serving Suggestions

These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of main dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Pair them with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Enjoy them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for a fun twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Parmesan smashed potatoes turn out perfectly crispy every time, keep these common mistakes in mind:

Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Make sure there is enough space between the potatoes on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking.
Not Preheating the Oven: A hot oven is essential for achieving that crispy texture, so don’t skip this step.
Using Cold Potatoes: Allow the potatoes to cool slightly after boiling, but don’t let them sit too long. Smashed potatoes should be cooked while still warm.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish), here’s how to store them:

Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Their crispy exterior, combined with the cheesy goodness of Parmesan, makes them the perfect side dish for any meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll find that preparing these potatoes is as enjoyable as eating them. So why not give them a try? Your taste buds will thank you!