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Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe with Garlic Herb Butter and Parmesan

crispy smashed potatoes recipe - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy smashed potatoes with a garlic herb butter and parmesan topping, combining fluffy interiors with golden, crunchy edges for a delicious and easy side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds baby Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary), finely chopped
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Place the baby Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
  3. While the potatoes boil, melt the butter in a small pan or microwave. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs. Let it rest for a few minutes so the flavors meld.
  4. Transfer the boiled potatoes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a sturdy spoon, gently press down on each potato until it’s about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thick. Don’t worry if they crack or break.
  5. Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle salt and pepper evenly.
  6. Place the tray in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through, until golden-brown and crispy.
  7. Remove the potatoes from the oven, then brush or spoon the garlic herb butter generously over each one. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  8. Pop the potatoes back under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the Parmesan melts and turns golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Do not overboil the potatoes; they should be tender but still hold their shape. Smash gently to keep some texture. Roast at high heat (450°F) for crispy edges. Use enough olive oil and do not crowd the baking sheet. Watch the broiler carefully to avoid burning the Parmesan. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based alternative and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes, garlic herb butter, parmesan, easy side dish, roasted potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes