CRISPY Parmesan Herb Smashed Potatoes – Irresistible Side Dish

Golden, crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—these smashed potatoes are bursting with garlic, herbs, and salty Parmesan. Perfect with chicken, fish, or even as a snack with dip.

 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 700 g (1½ lb) baby potatoes (Yukon gold or baby red)
• 2½ tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (or 1 fresh clove, minced)
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or rosemary, finely chopped

Optional for extra crispiness

• 1 tsp cornstarch (tossed lightly after smashing)

 Instructions (Step-by-Step)

1. Boil the Potatoes

• Place potatoes in salted water.
• Boil for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender.
• Drain and let steam-dry for 5 minutes.

2. Smash

• Preheat oven to 220°C / 425°F.
• Line a baking tray with parchment.
• Place potatoes on tray and gently smash with a glass or fork.

3. Season

• Drizzle with olive oil.
• Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and herbs.
• Add Parmesan evenly over potatoes.

4. Bake

• Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway.
• Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crisp edges.

5. Finish & Serve

• Sprinkle fresh herbs.
• Serve hot and crunchy.

 Nut & Allergen Information

Nut Status

• Peanuts:  None
• Tree Nuts:  None

Other Allergens

• Dairy:  Present (Parmesan)

To make dairy-free:
Use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

 Nutrition Highlights (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: ~210
• Carbs: Moderate
• Fat: Healthy fats from olive oil
• Protein: From Parmesan
• Vegetarian-friendly

 Q & A

Q: Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 200°C / 390°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking once.

Q: Why aren’t my potatoes crispy?
Make sure:

• Potatoes are well-drained
• Enough oil is used
• Oven is fully preheated

Q: Can I prepare them ahead?
Boil and smash in advance. Refrigerate and bake just before serving.

Q: Best dips to serve with this?

• Garlic yogurt sauce
• Sour cream & chives
• Spicy mayo or aioli

• Author
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Sara Mitchell

Sara Mitchell is an expert restaurant content creator who writes easy-to-read guides about CAVA and other Mediterranean fast-casual chains in the United States. She covers locations, menus, prices, and hours, making it simple for visitors to find nearby restaurants and what to order quickly.

With years of experience in restaurant research and local SEO, Sara creates accurate, user-friendly guides that work for both people and search engines. Her goal is to help users go from search results to their nearest restaurant or menu choice with as few clicks as possible.

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