Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Name: Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb baby potatoes; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (optional)

Published: December 18, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

This incredible Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:

Baby Potatoes: These small gems are perfect for smashing and have a creamy texture when cooked.
Fresh Garlic: The more garlic, the better! Fresh cloves provide an aromatic punch that elevates the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for maximum flavor; this cheese adds a nutty richness that’s hard to resist.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances the taste and helps achieve that crispy outer layer.
Salt and Pepper: Essential staples for seasoning—don’t be shy here; they really bring out the flavors!
Fresh Herbs (optional): Chopped parsley or chives can add a pop of color and freshness to finish off your dish beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by washing those baby potatoes and placing them in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil over high heat and let them cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While those potatoes are busy boiling away, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is where the magic happens—crispy edges await!

Step 3: Smash Time

Once boiled, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Now comes the fun part: place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and use a fork or potato masher to gently smash each one down until they’re flattened but still intact.

Step 4: Seasoning Shenanigans

Drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato like you’re painting a masterpiece. Sprinkle generously with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and finally, grate that parmesan cheese over everything like confetti at a parade.

Step 5: Bake Away

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will start smelling divine at this point—prepare yourself for the aroma!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once done baking, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Transfer to plates or a serving platter; don’t forget extra parmesan on top because you deserve it!

Now you have an irresistible side dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Serve these Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes alongside grilled meats or roasted veggies for an unforgettable meal experience.

You Must Know About Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

This showstopping Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To create the ultimate Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, start by boiling your potatoes until tender. While they simmer, melt butter and mix in garlic and parmesan. Once the potatoes are ready, smash them gently, then drizzle the buttery mixture on top for maximum flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes! Swap out parmesan for cheddar or add crispy bacon bits for extra indulgence. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or rosemary to elevate the dish further and personalize it to your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of milk or broth to maintain moisture. Heat until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

This professional-quality Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of our family gatherings where my grandma would whip up her famous mashed potatoes. Everyone would gather around, eagerly waiting for that first delicious bite—her secret? A generous sprinkle of love (and garlic).

FAQs

What is Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delicious side dish that combines the creamy texture of potatoes with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This dish involves boiling small potatoes until tender, then gently smashing them to create a rustic presentation. The potatoes are then roasted with olive oil, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan for added flavor. This recipe is perfect for any meal, bringing a delightful twist to traditional mashed potatoes.

How do I make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes crispy?

To achieve crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, ensure you boil the potatoes until fork-tender without making them too soft. After smashing them on a baking sheet, drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roasting at a high temperature allows the edges to become golden and crispy while maintaining a soft interior. You can also broil them for an additional crunch before serving.

Can I prepare Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes in advance! Boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply toss them with olive oil, garlic, and cheese before roasting. This method saves time on busy days while still delivering that fresh flavor you expect from this delightful dish.

What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes pair well with various dishes. They complement grilled meats like chicken or steak beautifully. You can also serve them alongside roasted vegetables or as a hearty base for savory sauces. Their rich flavor makes them versatile enough for any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering.

Conclusion

In summary, Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes offer a scrumptious side dish that elevates any meal. With their creamy texture and rich flavors from garlic and Parmesan cheese, they are sure to please anyone at your table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a comforting dinner at home, these smashed potatoes are an excellent choice. Try making them today for a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire!