2tablespoonsfresh herbsrosemary, thyme, or parsley – Adds brightness.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste.
For Dietary Restrictions:
Dairy-free option: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Vegan option: Use nutritional yeast and add 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure Parmesan is free from gluten-containing anti-caking agents.
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes:
Place baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt.
Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, until tender but firm.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Smash and Season:
Drain potatoes and let them dry for about 5 minutes.
Transfer to the baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Using a potato masher or flat-bottomed glass, gently press each potato to about 1/2-inch thickness.
In a small bowl, mix olive oil and minced garlic. Brush this mixture over each potato.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
First Roast:
Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until edges start to turn golden.
Remove from oven and sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over each potato.
Final Roast:
Return to oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes, until potatoes are deeply golden and crispy, and cheese is melted and starting to brown.
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Serve:
Let potatoes cool for 2-3 minutes to allow the crust to set.
Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot.
Notes
Variations:
Mediterranean: Add 1/4 cup crumbled feta, chopped kalamata olives, lemon zest, and fresh oregano.
Loaded Baked Potato Style: Top with shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and sliced green onions.
Truffle Herb: Drizzle with 1 tablespoon truffle oil before final roast, then garnish with chopped chives and flaky sea salt.
Spicy Southwest: Mix 1 teaspoon chipotle powder into olive oil mixture, use Cotija cheese, and garnish with cilantro and lime.
Seasonal Herb Garden: Use herb combinations like dill and chives in spring, basil and oregano in summer, sage and thyme in fall, and rosemary and parsley in winter.
Asian-Inspired: Brush with sesame oil and minced garlic, skip Parmesan, and finish with everything bagel seasoning, sliced scallions, and sriracha mayo.
Meal Prep Tips:
Boil and smash potatoes ahead of time; refrigerate until ready to roast.
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.