Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that instantly wins over a crowd with maximum flavor and texture, look no further than Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip. This spectacular side takes humble baby potatoes, crisps them to golden perfection, and pairs them with a cool, creamy dip packed with real garlic flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday table, a casual family dinner, or just want a snack that feels indulgent but incredibly easy to make, these smashed potatoes deliver every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip lies in its everyday ingredients, all coming together for something greater than the sum of their parts. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to play up crunch, creaminess, and bright, herby notes, resulting in a seriously addictive bite every single time.
- Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes (1 ½ pounds): Choose these for their buttery texture and perfect smashable size.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Not only aids in crisping but infuses the potatoes with delicious richness.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances every ingredient and balances flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and earthiness to each bite.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Provides an aromatic, savory base for the potatoes.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Lends a subtle, smoky flair and gorgeous color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts into a salty, crisp crust that makes these potatoes irresistible.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a pop of green and fresh flavor to finish.
- Sour cream (½ cup): The creamy backbone for the garlic dip, giving it a tangy bite.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Adds smoothness and richness to the dip.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): For that bold, robust flavor in every dunk.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the dip and ties together all the creamy flavors.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the dip just right.
How to Make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper, which makes cleanup a breeze. Place your baby potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring them to a boil. Let them cook for 15–20 minutes, or until they’re easily pierced by a fork. Don’t rush this step; soft, tender potatoes are the secret to satisfying, creamy insides after smashing.
Step 2: Drain and Cool
After boiling, drain the potatoes and let them cool just enough to handle. This brief rest helps steam evaporate, which means crispier results once you bake them.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Spread the potatoes on your prepared baking sheet, then use the bottom of a sturdy glass or measuring cup to gently press down on each one, flattening without breaking them apart entirely. This is the fun part: the more nooks and crannies you create, the crunchier your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip will be!
Step 4: Drizzle and Season
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over all the smashed potatoes, making sure each one gets its fair share of crispy potential. Next, sprinkle on the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Finish by showering them with grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt and create a beautifully savory crust as they bake.
Step 5: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Pop the tray into your hot oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, watching for the edges to turn deep golden and irresistibly crisp. For the ultimate texture, you can broil the potatoes for an extra 2–3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye so they don’t scorch.
Step 6: Make the Garlic Dip
As the potatoes bake, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, freshly minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. This dip is creamy, tangy, garlicky, and exactly what crispy potatoes dream about. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed, then pop it into the fridge to let the flavors meld.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove your gloriously golden Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip from the oven and, if desired, scatter fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve while piping hot, with the creamy garlic dip on the side. Watch them disappear!
How to Serve Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip

Garnishes
While a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a classic finishing touch, feel free to get creative. Try shaved Parmesan, chives, or even a light dusting of extra smoked paprika; each brings a new layer of flavor and a pop of color to your plate of Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip.
Side Dishes
These potatoes are wonderfully versatile, pairing seamlessly with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or a hearty vegetarian main. For a casual spread, serve them alongside a crisp green salad and your favorite roasted vegetables. Don’t forget: Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip also belong center stage at any appetizer table.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, pile the smashed potatoes on a wooden board with a bowl of garlic dip in the center—people love the rustic look! Or, for a fun twist, skewer the potatoes and dip for a hands-off, buffet-friendly snack. However you serve them, Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip keep beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply store the potatoes in an airtight container, and place the garlic dip in a separate covered bowl. This keeps everything fresh and the potatoes from losing their crispness.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze the smashed potatoes, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. The dip is best made fresh, but the potatoes will reheat deliciously for quick sides or snacks.
Reheating
To recapture the signature crispy edges, reheat your potatoes in a 425°F (220°C) oven for about 10–12 minutes, or until hot and crisp. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven is your friend for that fresh-from-the-pan crunch you want in Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Large Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be cut into chunks before boiling and smashing. Just aim for similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and crisping for your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip.
What can I substitute for Parmesan if I’m dairy-free?
Try using your favorite plant-based Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. Both options will add that savory, cheesy hit while keeping your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip dairy-free.
Can I make Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip ahead for a party?
Definitely! Smash, season, and bake the potatoes a day ahead. When ready to serve, simply reheat on a baking sheet in a hot oven for ultimate crispness. The garlic dip can be made a day in advance as well; in fact, its flavor deepens overnight.
How do I keep the potatoes from falling apart when smashing?
Let the potatoes cool slightly after boiling; this helps them hold their shape. Use gentle, even pressure to flatten them, aiming for about half an inch thick. The starchier texture of Yukon Golds naturally keeps them together for luscious Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip.
Is there a lighter version of the garlic dip?
Yes! You can swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt, or use light mayonnaise. The result is a tangy, equally delicious partner for dipping your Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with potatoes all over again, give this recipe a try! Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip combines craveably crisp edges, clouds of fluff inside, and the bold punch of garlicky dip—perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself. I can’t wait for you to make it your new favorite side dish!
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Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these crispy Parmesan smashed potatoes served hot with a flavorful garlic dip. This easy-to-make side dish is a perfect complement to any meal.
Ingredients
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes:
- 1 ½ pounds baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Garlic Dip:
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Boil the potatoes: Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
- Flatten the potatoes: Place potatoes on the baking sheet and gently press each with the bottom of a glass to flatten.
- Season: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Make the dip: Whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Serve: Serve hot potatoes garnished with parsley, alongside the garlic dip.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the potatoes for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- You can use Greek yogurt in the dip for a tangy twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg