Ingredients:
• 1.5 pounds small Yukon Gold potatoes
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
o Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the Potatoes:
o Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt.
o Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
o Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter:
o In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Smash the Potatoes:
o Arrange the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
o Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato to flatten it to about 1/2-inch thickness. Be careful to keep them intact.
5. Season the Potatoes:
o Brush the tops of the smashed potatoes generously with the garlic herb butter mixture, ensuring even coverage.
6. Bake:
o Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
7. Add Parmesan Cheese:
o Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
o Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is slightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
o Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
o Serve immediately as a side dish or appetizer.
Additional Tips:
• Potato Selection: Using small, waxy potatoes like baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes ensures a creamy interior and crispy exterior.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as oregano or basil to suit your taste preferences.
• Serving Suggestions: These potatoes pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can be enjoyed on their own with a dipping sauce like aioli.
Enjoy your Crispy Garlic Smashed Yukon Gold Potatoes!