The Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a dish that combines irresistible crispiness with gooey, melty cheesiness, look no further than The Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes. These crispy, golden bites bring together tender baby potatoes coated in savory seasonings and layered with not one but two kinds of cheese that melt perfectly in the oven. Every bite delivers a wonderful balance of texture and flavor, making it a tempting side dish or snack that will quickly become your new favorite comfort food. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something cozy, this recipe truly lives up to its name.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Great recipes start with simple, thoughtful ingredients that create magic when combined. Each item here plays a crucial role in crafting The Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes—from the creamy mozzarella that oozes on top to the baby gold potatoes that provide the perfect fluffy base beneath a crunchy exterior.

• Baby gold potatoes (1½ lbs): Small, tender, and ideal for achieving a crisp outside while staying soft inside.
• Shredded parmesan cheese (2 oz): Adds a nutty, sharp flavor that brightens every bite.
• Salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian herb seasoning (to taste): A flavorful blend that elevates the potatoes with aromatic and savory notes.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz): Melts into a creamy, bubbly topping that makes these potatoes utterly addictive.
• Optional garnish – chopped chives: Adds a fresh, mild oniony crunch and a pop of color.
• Optional garnish – chili pepper flakes: For those who love a subtle kick, these bring heat and complexity.
• Lazy Tzatziki dip: A cooling, creamy accompaniment that balances the cheesy richness beautifully.

How to Make The Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Boil the Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 425℉ and lining a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then gently add the baby gold potatoes. Once the water returns to a boil, cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, depending on their size, until they are fork tender but still hold their shape. This step is key to achieving that perfect creamy interior beneath the crispy outside.

Step 2: Cool and Prepare for Smashed Magic

After boiling, drain the potatoes and transfer them to the baking sheet to cool slightly. If some potatoes are larger, cut them in half to ensure even cooking and easier smashing later. For smaller potatoes, don’t forget to score a crisscross pattern on the top — this little trick helps them smash flatter without falling apart, creating more surface area for that glorious crispy crust.

Step 3: Layer with Parmesan and Smash

Now for the fun part: Grab about a tablespoon of shredded parmesan and spread it on the parchment paper before placing each potato on top. This creates a tasty, crispy cheese layer on the bottom as it bakes. To smash the potatoes, place a small square of parchment or wax paper over the top of each one, then gently press down with the bottom of a glass until it’s flattened but not destroyed. This barrier prevents sticking and keeps your smashed potatoes intact.

Step 4: Season and Top with Mozzarella

Once all the potatoes are smashed, sprinkle your seasoning blend generously over each one. The combination of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian herbs brings a complex, mouthwatering flavor profile. Finally, crown each smashed potato with a generous handful of shredded mozzarella, which melts beautifully and turns golden brown in the oven.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the potatoes for 15 minutes, watching as the cheese melts and bubbles into a golden, crispy blanket that makes this recipe stand out. The result is crisp, cheesy, and irresistibly tasty potatoes that are sure to steal the spotlight at any meal.

How to Serve The Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Garnishes

To enhance both the look and flavor, scatter freshly chopped chives over the potatoes after baking for a touch of bright color and fresh oniony flavor. If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of chili pepper flakes to give each bite a subtle kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheeses.

Side Dishes

The Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, roasted veggies, or even a simple fresh salad for a balanced meal. Their rich and cheesy nature makes them ideal to complement dishes with bold or smoky flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these potatoes as part of a tapas-style spread alongside dips like the Lazy Tzatziki or spicy sriracha mayo. Or present them stacked in mini towers for a striking appetizer display at your next get-together. Adding vibrant garnishes and dips invites your guests to customize and enjoy them in endless ways.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cheesy smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They will maintain much of their flavor and texture, making for a convenient next-day treat.

Freezing

If you want to freeze them, flash freeze the baked potatoes first on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen smashed potatoes keep for up to two months and are great to have on hand for quick snacks or sides.

Reheating

For the crispiest reheated potatoes, warm them in a preheated oven at 400℉ for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese bubbles back up and the edges regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this tends to make them soggy rather than delightfully crispy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While baby gold potatoes are perfect for their size and creaminess, small red potatoes or fingerlings also work well. Just adjust boiling times based on size to ensure tenderness.

What if I’m lactose intolerant or want a dairy-free version?

You can swap out mozzarella and parmesan for dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well, though the flavor and texture might vary slightly. Nutritional yeast sprinkled before baking can add a cheesy flavor too.

How spicy do the chili flakes make the dish?

The chili pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that’s easy to control — just sprinkle a small amount if you want mild heat, or more if you crave a bolder spicy punch. It’s all about your preference!

Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time before baking?

Yes, you can boil and smash the potatoes a few hours ahead, keep them covered in the refrigerator, and then add cheese and bake right before serving. This makes entertaining much easier.

Is The Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes good as an appetizer?

Definitely! Their bite-sized, crispy, cheesy nature makes them perfect finger food for parties or casual gatherings. Pair them with dips and garnishes for an easy crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

Once you try The Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes, you might find yourself calling on this recipe again and again. It brings together simple ingredients in such a delicious way that it’s sure to become a household favorite. I promise you’ll love that perfect contrast of crispy edges and cheesy, tender insides—so why wait? Give these irresistible potatoes a go, and prepare for your new favorite comfort food moment.

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