Smashed Cheesy Roasted Potatoes: The Ultimate Recipe

Smashed cheesy roasted potatoes: Prepare to meet your new favorite side dish! Imagine crispy, golden-brown potato edges giving way to a fluffy interior, all smothered in a blanket of melted, bubbly cheese. This isn’t just a potato recipe; it’s an experience. I’m going to show you how to make these incredibly addictive potatoes that will disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

While the exact origins of smashed cheesy roasted potatoes are a bit hazy, the concept of smashing potatoes to increase surface area for maximum crispiness has been around for ages. Think of it as a delicious evolution of classic roasted potatoes, taken to a whole new level with the addition of cheese. Potatoes themselves have a rich history, originating in the Andes Mountains and becoming a staple in cuisines worldwide. The addition of cheese, a beloved ingredient across cultures, elevates this simple dish into something truly special.

What makes these potatoes so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy edges provide a satisfying crunch, while the fluffy interior offers a comforting softness. The melted cheese adds a creamy, savory element that complements the earthy flavor of the potatoes perfectly. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a delicious side dish for a weeknight dinner, or a show-stopping addition to your holiday table, these smashed cheesy roasted potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit.

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, small to medium size, scrubbed
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, sour cream, chives, bacon bits

Preparing the Potatoes:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those potatoes nice and crispy!
2. While the oven is preheating, prepare the potatoes. Since we’re using Yukon Golds, there’s no need to peel them. Just give them a good scrub under cold water to remove any dirt.
3. Now, we need to parboil the potatoes. This step ensures they’re tender on the inside before we roast them. Place the scrubbed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add about a teaspoon of salt to the water – this helps season the potatoes from the inside out.
4. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork but not completely falling apart. You want them to be slightly undercooked, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
5. Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle.

Roasting and Smashed Potatoes:

1. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, place them on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Using the bottom of a glass, a potato masher, or even a sturdy spatula, gently smash each potato. You want to flatten them slightly, but not completely flatten them into pancakes. Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme. This aromatic mixture will infuse the potatoes with incredible flavor.
4. Brush each smashed potato with the garlic-herb oil mixture. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies!
5. Season the smashed potatoes generously with sea salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy – this is where the flavor really comes to life.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.

Adding the Cheese and Final Roasting:

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Now comes the best part – the cheese!
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the smashed potatoes. Make sure each potato gets a good amount of cheese.
3. Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese-covered potatoes. This will help the cheese melt evenly and add a rich, buttery flavor.
4. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.

Serving:

1. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth!
2. Garnish the smashed cheesy roasted potatoes with your favorite toppings. Chopped fresh parsley, sour cream, chives, and bacon bits are all great options.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! These potatoes are best served hot and fresh.

Tips and Variations:

• Potato Variety: While Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for this recipe, you can also use red potatoes or even russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that russet potatoes may require a slightly longer parboiling time.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack would all be delicious.
• Herb Variations: If you’re not a fan of rosemary or thyme, you can substitute other herbs like oregano, basil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Garlic Lovers: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two to the garlic-herb oil mixture.
• Make Ahead: You can parboil the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before smashing and roasting.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic-herb oil for a spicy kick.
• Add Some Veggies: Roast some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms alongside the potatoes for a more complete meal.
• Serving Suggestions: These smashed cheesy roasted potatoes make a great side dish for grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They’re also delicious as a snack or appetizer.

Enjoy your delicious Smashed Cheesy Roasted Potatoes!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These smashed cheesy roasted potatoes are truly a game-changer. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor – everything you could possibly want in a side dish (or even a light meal, let’s be honest!). But beyond the incredible taste, what makes this recipe a must-try is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to achieve potato perfection. The steps are straightforward, the ingredients are readily available, and the results are consistently amazing.

I know what you might be thinking: “Another potato recipe? What’s so special?” Trust me on this one. The smashing technique creates maximum surface area for that golden-brown crispiness we all crave, while the cheese melts into every nook and cranny, creating a symphony of textures and flavors. It’s a far cry from your average boiled or baked potato.

And the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. While I’ve shared my go-to method, feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the melted butter before drizzling it over the potatoes. If you’re a garlic lover (like me!), toss in a few cloves of minced garlic along with the herbs. Want to make it a complete meal? Top the smashed potatoes with some grilled chicken or steak for a hearty and satisfying dinner.

Serving suggestions are endless! These smashed cheesy roasted potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or even a simple salad. They’re also fantastic served with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh chives. For a vegetarian option, try serving them alongside grilled halloumi cheese and a vibrant vegetable medley.

Consider these variations to elevate your potato game:

* Mediterranean Twist: Use feta cheese instead of cheddar and add a sprinkle of oregano and a drizzle of olive oil.
* Bacon Bliss: Crumble crispy bacon over the potatoes after they come out of the oven.
* Spicy Fiesta: Top with salsa, guacamole, and a dollop of sour cream for a Mexican-inspired treat.
* Herb Garden: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to create unique flavor profiles.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with it! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly forgiving and adaptable to your own personal preferences.

But seriously, don’t just take my word for it. You absolutely have to try this recipe for yourself. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Imagine the satisfying crunch as you bite into a perfectly crispy potato, followed by the creamy, cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth. It’s a culinary experience you won’t soon forget.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create some potato magic! I’m confident that these smashed cheesy roasted potatoes will become a new family favorite.

And once you’ve tried them, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. Let me know what variations you tried and how they turned out. I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how you’re making this recipe your own. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see your potato masterpieces!