If you are searching for a side dish that is irresistibly crispy, bursting with flavor, and easy to prepare, then you must try this Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe. These golden, tender potatoes smothered in savory Parmesan and paired with a zesty garlic dip create an irresistible combo that feels like a culinary hug in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining friends, this recipe transforms humble baby potatoes into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe is in its simplicity. You only need a handful of basic ingredients that come together to create bold flavors, pleasing textures, and vibrant colors. Each addition plays a vital role—from the creamy sour cream in the dip to the fresh parsley that adds a pop of green and freshness at the end.
- 1 ½ pounds baby yellow potatoes: Choose tender baby potatoes for perfect smashing and even roasting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the potatoes perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild heat that balances the richness of Parmesan.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses extra garlicky goodness into the potatoes themselves.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a salty, crispy, golden crust that is simply divine.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch and a lovely visual contrast.
- ½ cup sour cream: The creamy base of the garlic dip that cools the palate.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Packs the garlic dip with punchy, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dip with a fresh, tangy note.
- Salt to taste: Finishes the dip by balancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start off by boiling your baby yellow potatoes in salted water until they are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is key for achieving that luscious, fluffy inside that contrasts beautifully with the crisp outside after baking.
Step 2: Prepare for Smashed Potatoes
Once drained, lay the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently flatten each potato to about half an inch thick. The gentle smash is what allows the edges to become perfectly crispy while maintaining tender centers.
Step 3: Season and Add Parmesan
Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and that glorious grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese creates an irresistible, golden crust when baked, turning humble potatoes into something special.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Bake the potatoes at 425°F (220°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for golden, crisp edges – that’s the sign they’re ready! The high heat ensures a perfect crunch while the inside stays creamy and tender.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Dip
While the potatoes roast, whip up your garlic dip by mixing sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This dip is tangy, creamy, and absolutely essential for dipping those crispy smashed potatoes.
How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a splash of color and a hint of herbal brightness that complements the rich Parmesan perfectly. If you like a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes are a fantastic garnish to elevate the flavor profile.
Side Dishes
These Parmesan smashed potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, seared steak, or roasted veggies. They can be the star side dish for practically any meal, adding comfort and crunch alongside your protein and greens.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the potatoes stacked on a platter with small bowls of the garlic dip spread throughout for easy dipping. Another idea is to drizzle a little extra olive oil and sprinkle more Parmesan at the table for guests to customize their servings with an extra cheesy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover Parmesan smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the garlic dip separately to maintain its fresh, creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, you can freeze the cooked, unsmashed boiled potatoes before baking. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking tray first, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. Bake them from frozen when ready, though freshly baked yields the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the potatoes in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes to bring back that crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible as it tends to make them soggy. The garlic dip is best served chilled or at room temperature and can be stirred before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby yellow potatoes work beautifully for their size and texture, you can use baby red potatoes or fingerlings. Just ensure they’re cooked until tender before smashing.
Is there a vegan way to make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe?
Yes! Substitute vegan Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative in the garlic dip to keep it plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?
Ensure the potatoes are dried well after boiling and use enough olive oil when drizzling. Baking at a high temperature and spreading them out on the baking sheet without overcrowding also helps crisp them up perfectly.
Can I prepare the garlic dip ahead of time?
Definitely. The garlic dip can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What dishes go well with these Parmesan smashed potatoes?
They make a wonderful side for grilled meats, roasted chicken, and even vegetarian mains like stuffed peppers or sautéed mushrooms. Their crispy texture adds a delicious contrast to many meals.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the simplicity and comfort of Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with savory, garlicky flavor, this side dish is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen. I encourage you to grab those baby potatoes and get smashing—your next meal just got a whole lot tastier!
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Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a crispy, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. Boiled baby potatoes are gently smashed, seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, then baked until golden and crispy. Served with a creamy garlic dip made from sour cream, garlic, and lemon juice, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 ½ pounds baby yellow potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Garlic Dip
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the potatoes.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the baby yellow potatoes in a large pot of salted water and boil for 15–20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape. Drain well.
- Smashed Potatoes: Arrange the boiled potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently flatten each potato to about half an inch thick, being careful not to break them apart.
- Season Potatoes: Drizzle the smashed potatoes evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese to enhance flavor.
- Bake Potatoes: Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare Garlic Dip: While the potatoes bake, mix sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the crispy smashed potatoes with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside the garlic dip.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan Parmesan and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the potatoes or dip for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
