Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner? Smashed Garlic Butter Potatoes are savory, crispy, and bursting with flavor. This dish is easy to make and sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a side that steals the show. Join me as we dive into a step-by-step guide to this delightful recipe. Let’s turn simple potatoes into something extraordinary!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1.5 pounds baby potatoes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Smashed garlic butter potatoes are all about simple, tasty ingredients. You need baby potatoes for the best texture and flavor. The melted unsalted butter gives richness, while minced garlic adds a punch. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish, making it look and taste fresh.
Smoked paprika adds a lovely warmth and depth. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. A touch of lemon zest brings a bit of brightness that cuts through the richness. If you want extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top in the last few minutes of baking. This adds a nice cheesy crust.
These ingredients work together to make your smashed potatoes crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are perfect for sharing at dinner or a picnic. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
– Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
– In a large pot, add 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes. Fill with water.
– Place the pot on medium-high heat. Bring the water to a boil.
– Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
Smashed Potatoes Technique
– Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander.
– Let them cool for a few minutes until safe to touch.
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Place the cooled potatoes on the baking sheet.
– Smash each potato gently with a sturdy glass or masher.
– Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness.
Making Garlic Butter Mixture
– In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup melted butter and 6 minced garlic cloves.
– Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and the zest of 1 lemon.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Mix until everything is well combined.
– Coat the smashed potatoes generously with the garlic butter mixture.
Roasting the Potatoes
– Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
– Roast for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are golden brown.
– In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top.
– This will give a deliciously melted topping.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best smashed garlic butter potatoes, start with baby potatoes. They have a nice size and creamy texture. Look for potatoes that are firm and smooth. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes.
Boiling is key. Cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. This means a fork should easily pierce them. Once boiled, let them cool a bit. Then, smash them gently to about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost the flavor, think about adding more herbs. Fresh thyme or rosemary works well with garlic butter. You can also try adding a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
When seasoning, be careful with salt. Start with a little, then taste. You can always add more, but you cannot take it out. The balance of flavors makes all the difference in your dish.
Presentation Tips
For a beautiful display, serve the potatoes on a large platter. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter over the top. This adds shine and flavor.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. You can also add lemon slices around the platter. This makes the dish look vibrant and inviting.
Variations
Seasoning Alternatives
You can change the flavor of your smashed garlic butter potatoes easily. Use different spices or herbs to fit your taste. For a fresh twist, try adding rosemary or thyme. You can also use garlic herb butter for a more intense garlic flavor. If you like heat, mix in some chili flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper. Each option can change your dish from simple to exciting.
Dietary Adjustments
These potatoes can fit many diets! If you want a vegetarian version, just skip the cheese. For a vegan option, use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. You can also leave off the cheese entirely to keep it vegan. If gluten is a concern, this recipe is already gluten-free since it does not use any wheat products.
Different Potato Types
The type of potato you use can change the texture. Baby potatoes are great, but you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier feel. If you want to try something sweeter, use sweet potatoes. They give a nice twist to the dish while still being delicious. Each potato type adds its own special taste to your meal.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your smashed garlic butter potatoes fresh, start by letting them cool completely. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have more, consider freezing them.
For freezing, allow the potatoes to cool fully. Then, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about 2 hours until solid. After that, transfer the frozen potatoes to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they won’t stick together. They can last for about 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to eat, reheating is key. You want to keep that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness.
To avoid sogginess, do not cover the potatoes while reheating. This allows steam to escape. You can also reheat them in an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for a quick and tasty option. Enjoy those delicious smashed potatoes again!
FAQs
How long do smashed garlic butter potatoes last?
Smashed garlic butter potatoes can last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Just store them in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze them. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool them completely before freezing. When you are ready to eat them, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make smashed potatoes ahead of time. Prepare them up to the roasting step. After boiling and smashing, coat them with the garlic butter mixture. Then, cover and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to serve, just pop them in the oven. This saves time and makes serving easy.
What can I serve with smashed garlic butter potatoes?
These potatoes pair well with many dishes. You can serve them with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal. They also go well with roasted veggies for a lighter option. Try them with a fresh salad for a balanced plate. For a cozy dinner, serve with your favorite soup. The options are endless!
This post guided you through making delicious smashed garlic butter potatoes. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfect texture and flavor. You learned about variations to suit different diets and potato types.
Now you can enjoy creating this dish and impress your guests. Keep experimenting with spices and presenting them beautifully. Smashed garlic butter potatoes are sure to be a hit at any meal!
