Method
Step 1 — Cook the Baby Potatoes
- Place baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2 — Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 3 — Smash the Potatoes
- Place cooked potatoes on the baking sheet.
- Gently press each one with a potato masher or the bottom of a glass until slightly flattened but still intact.
- The thinner the potato, the crispier it becomes!
Step 4 — Season and Bake
- Brush or drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until edges are golden and crispy.
- Remove from oven.
Step 5 — Add Garlic & Parmesan
- In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Spoon or sprinkle the mixture over each crispy potato.
- Bake for an extra 5–8 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes golden.
Step 6 — Garnish
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the potatoes before serving.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezer Freeze up to 1 month (without garlic topping). Reheating Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until crispy again. Air fryer works perfectly too! 🥄 Variations Extra cheesy: Add mozzarella or cheddar. Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or paprika. Herby twist: Add rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning. Creamy topping: Drizzle garlic aioli or ranch dressing. Lemon twist: Add lemon zest to the Parmesan mix. ❓ 10 FAQs Can I use larger potatoes?
Yes, just cut them in half before boiling. Why smash the potatoes?
More surface area = more crispiness. Can I boil the potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, up to a day in advance. Can I use dried parsley?
Fresh tastes better, but dried works in a pinch. Do they get crispy without oil?
Oil helps them crisp beautifully—don't skip it. Can I add garlic before baking?
It may burn; adding it at the end keeps it flavorful. What type of Parmesan is best?
Freshly grated melts and browns better. Air fryer method?
400°F (200°C) for 10–14 minutes, shaking halfway. Can I make them vegan?
Yes—use vegan parmesan and olive oil. What do they pair well with?
Steak, chicken, salmon, burgers, or even eggs. 🏁 Conclusion These Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are the perfect blend of crispiness, creaminess, and bold garlic-parmesan flavor. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to impress at any dinner table. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on their own, they bring comfort and crunch in every golden bite. This is the kind of simple recipe that becomes a long-term favorite—crispy edges, soft fluffy centers, and irresistible cheesy garlic goodness.
Refrigerator Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezer Freeze up to 1 month (without garlic topping). Reheating Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until crispy again. Air fryer works perfectly too! 🥄 Variations Extra cheesy: Add mozzarella or cheddar. Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or paprika. Herby twist: Add rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning. Creamy topping: Drizzle garlic aioli or ranch dressing. Lemon twist: Add lemon zest to the Parmesan mix. ❓ 10 FAQs Can I use larger potatoes?
Yes, just cut them in half before boiling. Why smash the potatoes?
More surface area = more crispiness. Can I boil the potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, up to a day in advance. Can I use dried parsley?
Fresh tastes better, but dried works in a pinch. Do they get crispy without oil?
Oil helps them crisp beautifully—don't skip it. Can I add garlic before baking?
It may burn; adding it at the end keeps it flavorful. What type of Parmesan is best?
Freshly grated melts and browns better. Air fryer method?
400°F (200°C) for 10–14 minutes, shaking halfway. Can I make them vegan?
Yes—use vegan parmesan and olive oil. What do they pair well with?
Steak, chicken, salmon, burgers, or even eggs. 🏁 Conclusion These Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are the perfect blend of crispiness, creaminess, and bold garlic-parmesan flavor. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to impress at any dinner table. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on their own, they bring comfort and crunch in every golden bite. This is the kind of simple recipe that becomes a long-term favorite—crispy edges, soft fluffy centers, and irresistible cheesy garlic goodness.
