Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic and Parmesan

Update : March 29, 2026

Baked smashed potatoes topped with garlic and parmesan cheese

why make this recipe

Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic and Parmesan are a perfect side dish for any meal. They are crispy, full of flavor, and easy to make. The combination of garlic and Parmesan adds a delicious twist to your regular potatoes. Plus, they are fun to make and look great on your dinner table. If you love potatoes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

how to make Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic and Parmesan

Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon Gold work best)
3 tablespoons olive oil (I use California Extra Virgin Oil)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt and drop in the baby potatoes. Cook them for about 15–20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
While the potatoes cool, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This prevents sticking and ensures even crisping.
Place the boiled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass, a potato masher, or even a fork, gently press each potato down until it flattens to about ½-inch thick. Don’t worry if some break apart — those crispy edges will be the best part!
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Brush this mixture generously over each smashed potato, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly on top.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes develop a deep golden-brown color and crispy edges. For extra crunch, turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

how to serve Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic and Parmesan

These potatoes make an excellent side dish for chicken, steak, or even a veggie burger. You can also serve them as a snack or appetizer with your favorite dips. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven but can also be served at room temperature.

how to store Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic and Parmesan

To store leftover smashed potatoes, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven to regain that crispy texture.

tips to make Baked Smashed Potatoes With Garlic and Parmesan

Make sure to choose small baby potatoes for even cooking.
Try adding different herbs and spices, like rosemary or thyme, to customize the flavor.
For extra crispiness, don’t skip the broiler step at the end.
If you prefer less fat, you can reduce the amount of olive oil and butter.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding cheese like cheddar or feta instead of Parmesan. You can also mix in other ingredients like chopped green onions or diced bell peppers before baking for added flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can use larger potatoes, but you’ll need to cut them into quarters and adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fork-tender.

Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can boil the potatoes ahead of time, smash them, and store them in the fridge. Just add the oil mixture and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What dipping sauces go well with these potatoes?
Some great dipping sauces include sour cream, ranch dressing, ketchup, or a spicy aioli. Choose your favorite or serve a few different options for variety!