Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic & Parmesan Recipe
These Baked Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Parmesan are a crispy, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. Baby potatoes are boiled until tender, gently smashed, and then generously coated with a garlic, butter, and olive oil mixture before being baked to golden perfection and topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a deliciously savory finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon Gold work best)
Seasoning & Coating
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (California Extra Virgin recommended)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: red pepper flakes (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt, then add the baby potatoes. Boil them for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and allow to cool slightly for easier handling.
- Preheat the Oven: While the potatoes cool, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure even crisping.
- Smash the Potatoes: Place the boiled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass, potato masher, or fork, gently press each potato down to about ½-inch thickness. Some may break apart, which will add to the crispy edges.
- Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Brush this mixture generously on each smashed potato, making sure they are well-coated. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
- Bake for Crispiness: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown with crispy edges. For extra crunch, broil the potatoes for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as sour cream, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.
Notes
- For best results, use small baby potatoes like red or Yukon Gold varieties.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice smoky flavor layer.
- Watch closely during broiling to prevent burning as this step is quick.
- These potatoes are best served fresh from the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces to suit your taste.
Keywords: smashed potatoes, baked potatoes, garlic potatoes, parmesan potatoes, crispy potatoes, side dish
