If you’re on the hunt for a comfort food side that instantly elevates your meal, look no further than this Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside, these golden smashed potatoes are perfectly seasoned with garlic and Parmesan, making every bite a delight. Paired with a creamy, tangy garlic dip that brings an irresistible zing, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple enough for weeknights but special enough to impress any guest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe is proof that simplicity delivers the best flavors. Each component—from the baby potatoes to the fresh parsley—is essential in crafting the perfect balance of texture, taste, and visual charm that makes these Parmesan smashed potatoes shine.
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon gold): These small potatoes are charmingly tender and perfect for smashing without falling apart.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds crispiness and a rich, fruity undertone that helps those edges get irresistibly golden.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle garlic flavor that infuses the potatoes evenly without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors, giving the potatoes a savory boost.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings just the right amount of warmth and depth.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that adds nuttiness and a crispy crust when baked.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish with a pop of green and fresh aroma.
- For the garlic dip: 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Creaminess with a slight tang that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Balances richness for the dip and adds smooth texture.
- 1 clove garlic, minced or grated: Infuses bold garlicky flavor for the dip.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds a fresh, zingy brightness to make the dip lively.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dip just right.
How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating the oven to a sizzling 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius), and line a baking sheet with parchment or just grease it lightly. This kickstarts the process to get your potatoes that perfect crispy finish.
Step 2: Boil the Baby Potatoes
Pop the baby potatoes into salted boiling water and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until you can easily pierce them with a fork. This step is crucial because the right tenderness inside ensures your smashed potatoes won’t be gummy or underdone.
Step 3: Smash ’Em Down
Drain the potatoes and let them cool just a bit. Then place them spaced out on your baking sheet and gently press down on each with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup until they’re about half an inch thick. This smashing creates all those glorious nooks and crannies.
Step 4: Season and Add Parmesan
Drizzle each smashed potato with olive oil, then sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. This layer is where the magic happens—the cheese melts and crisps for that addictive golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake everything in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges turn beautifully crispy and golden. If you’re craving extra crunch, a quick 2 to 3-minute broil at the end takes these to the next level of delicious.
Step 6: Make the Garlic Dip
While the potatoes bake, whip up the garlic dip by mixing sour cream or Greek yogurt with mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Chill it until you’re ready to serve—it’s the perfect cooling companion to those crunchy Parmesan smashed potatoes.
How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the finishing touch, adding a lively green color and herbaceous freshness that balances the rich potatoes and dip beautifully. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top right out of the oven also adds flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or steak, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp salad. It’s versatile enough to complement everything from casual weeknight dinners to celebratory feasts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the smashed potatoes on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of the garlic dip and additional seasonings like crushed red pepper flakes or flavored salts. It makes for a charming sharing platter that’s sure to be a conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic dip separate to maintain its fresh taste and texture.
Freezing
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze the cooked and cooled potatoes before baking. Arrange them on a sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To bring leftover smashed potatoes back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until hot and crisp again, about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular large potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut larger potatoes into evenly sized chunks before boiling and smashing. Baby potatoes just cook more evenly and quickly, which is why they’re preferred.
What makes this garlic dip so special?
The combination of sour cream or Greek yogurt with mayo creates a creamy, tangy base that complements the roasted potatoes perfectly, while fresh garlic adds a bright punch that elevates the whole dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can! Swap Parmesan cheese for a vegan cheese alternative and use plant-based sour cream and mayonnaise for the garlic dip, maintaining the same delicious flavor profile.
Is there a way to make these potatoes extra crispy?
Yes, broiling them for 2 to 3 minutes right at the end of baking gives them an irresistible crust. Also, be generous with the oil and Parmesan to help crisp up the edges.
How long can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can boil and smash the potatoes a few hours ahead of time, then refrigerate them on the baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you want a side dish that feels soulful and special all while being incredibly easy to prepare, this Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe is your new best friend. It’s that perfect crowd-pleaser that brings joy to the table every time, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again.
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Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip are crispy, golden baby potatoes baked to perfection and served with a creamy, tangy garlic dip. This easy appetizer or side dish combines tender boiled potatoes smashed thin, coated with olive oil, garlic seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, then baked until crisp. Paired with a flavorful sour cream and mayonnaise-based garlic dip, it’s perfect for gatherings or a comforting snack.
Ingredients
For the potatoes:
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon gold)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
For the garlic dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced or grated
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Boil the potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a pot of salted water and boil for 15–20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain the water and allow the potatoes to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
- Smash the potatoes: Transfer the boiled potatoes to the baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down each potato until it is about 1/2-inch thick, being careful not to completely mash them.
- Season and cheese: Drizzle the smashed potatoes evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over them, then generously top with grated Parmesan cheese to ensure a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Bake the potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the potato edges turn crispy and golden brown.
- Prepare the garlic dip: While the potatoes bake, combine sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well, then refrigerate until serving.
- Serve: Once baked, garnish the smashed potatoes with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot alongside the chilled garlic dip for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the potatoes for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the potatoes or dip for a spicy kick.
- Use flavored Parmesan cheese, such as garlic or smoked Parmesan, for additional flavor variations.
- These potatoes are best enjoyed immediately for the crisp texture but can be reheated in the oven to refresh crispness.
