Are you ready to elevate your side dish game? There’s nothing quite like the deliciousness of Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! This delightful recipe combines crispy textures with creamy, cheesy goodness, making it a favorite for family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these smashed potatoes are sure to impress everyone at your table.
Moreover, the versatility of this dish allows for endless creativity. You can customize the cheese, sprinkle in your favorite herbs, or even add a drizzle of savory sauce to take it up a notch. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as a hearty snack, roasted smashed potatoes with cheese promise a satisfying bite that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients for Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE!:
To create these delectable smashed potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs. small red potatoes
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped chives
– ¾ cup freshly grated Monterey Jack or Colby cheese
These ingredients come together to form a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. First, you’ll find the small red potatoes create a creamy texture when smashed. The combination of olive oil and butter adds richness, while the garlic and Old Bay seasoning provide a burst of flavor. Chives bring a fresh touch, and the melted cheese makes it distinctly luscious.
For additional side dish inspiration, check out this Easy Crispy Potato Cheese Croquettes recipe. It’s another fantastic way to savor the magic of potatoes and cheese!
How to prepare :
Get ready to savor the simplicity of Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub 1.5 lbs. of small red potatoes, then place them in a pot of water. Boil these spuds until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly before transferring to a baking sheet.
Next, gently smash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over them, ensuring they are well coated. Season with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Now, sprinkle ¾ cup of freshly grated Monterey Jack or Colby cheese on top. Don’t forget to add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 3 cloves of minced garlic for extra flavor!
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Finally, garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped chives for a fresh touch. For a delightful side, serve these smashed potatoes alongside an elevated dish like grilled filet mignon with garlic butter. Enjoy your cheesy potato feast!
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Smashed Potatoes:
To create mouthwatering Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE!, it’s essential to start with the right potatoes. Choose small, waxy varieties like Yukon Gold for their creamy texture. Begin by boiling them until tender. This method ensures they cook evenly without becoming mushy. Once boiled, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few moments.
Next, preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, gently smash each potato with the back of a fork, creating a delightful texture. Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashes and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cheese of your choice for that melty goodness.
For extra flavor, consider experimenting with spices, like those found in our Easy Crispy Potato Cheese Croquettes. Finally, bake them until golden, following more tips from the experts at 365 Days of Baking. Enjoy your cheesy potato masterpiece!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE!:
These cheesy, crispy potatoes make a wonderful side dish, but they can also be a delightful main attraction when paired with the right accompaniments. Serve your Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! alongside grilled meats, like a succulent Grilled Filet Mignon with Garlic Butter, for a luxurious dinner. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider a comforting Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole. The creamy textures of the smashed potatoes will balance beautifully with the savory flavors of the casserole.
For a vegetarian option, why not enjoy them with a refreshing salad? A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the potatoes perfectly. If you crave something unique, check out my recipe for Date Syrup Glazed Roasted Veggies, which offers a sweet touch to contrast with the savory notes of the cheesy smashers. No matter how you serve them, these Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! are sure to impress!
Variations to Try with Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE!:
Transforming your traditional Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! is easy and delicious with a few simple changes. Start by experimenting with different cheese varieties. For a sharp flavor, try using aged cheddar or a creamy texture by opting for gouda. Additionally, you can mix in garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for added depth.
For a fun twist, pair your smashed potatoes with flavorful Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole as a hearty side dish, creating a comforting meal that delights the palate. You could also drizzle a spicy aioli over the top for some heat, or add crispy bacon bits for crunch. Lastly, consider topping your cheesy potatoes with sour cream and chives for a classic touch. These variations elevate the flavor profile while maintaining the essence of the original dish, making each bite an exploration of taste!
Storage tips for Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE!:
To keep your scrumptious Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for that crispy texture. For an exciting twist, try pairing them with dishes like the Easy Sausage Stuffing for a flavor-packed meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What makes Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! so special?
The unique blend of crispy texture and creamy, cheesy goodness elevates these smashed potatoes. Roasting them enhances their natural flavor, making them a perfect side dish for any meal.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan to create your ideal cheesy flavor combination.
How long should I roast the potatoes?
For perfect results, roast the smashed potatoes for about 25-30 minutes at 425°F. This ensures they are golden brown and irresistibly crunchy.
What are some delicious pairings for these potatoes?
These cheesy smashed potatoes pair wonderfully with meats such as grilled filet mignon or roasted chicken. You can also enjoy them alongside vibrant dishes like date syrup-glazed roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Can leftovers be stored?
Yes! Any leftover smashed potatoes can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
Are these potatoes suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! are perfect for meal prep. Prepare them in advance, and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
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Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE! Irresistibly Cheesy
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes with CHEESE are the ultimate comfort food side dish, perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, topped with delicious melted cheese and garlic flavors.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs. small red potatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped chives
¾ cup freshly grated Monterey Jack / Colby cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil the small red potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes or until tender.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly, then gently smash each potato with a fork or the bottom of a glass.
- In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the smashed potatoes in the olive oil mixture until well coated.
- Arrange the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven, sprinkle the grated cheese over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped chives before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite spices or using a different type of cheese. These potatoes are best served immediately for optimal crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Easy Roasted Smashed Potatoes, Smashed Potatoes, cheesy potatoes, roasted potatoes, comfort food