Quick and Easy, Delicious and Cheesy Fried Smashed Potatoes
When it seems like winter will never end, I look for warm, filling twists on my favorite comfort foods. This recipe from Better Homes and Gardens combines two of my favorites: potatoes and cheese! A fun change from simple mashed potatoes, it’s sure to make the whole family happy.
Ingredients:
– 12 small red potatoes (1-1/2 to 2 inches in diameter; 1-1/2 to 2 pounds total)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
Directions:
- Scrub the potatoes and set aside overnight.
- Combine the grated cheese and parsley in an airtight container and cover. Chill for up to 24 hours.
- Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with at least 1 inch of water.
- Add salt to the water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes or until potatoes are very tender.
Drain the potatoes. - Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a 15 x 10 inch baking with foil and transfer the potatoes to the pan, letting them cool for 10 minutes.
- Use a potato masher or your hand to press each potato until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. Keep each potato in one piece, and be careful not to burn your hand!
- Brush half the olive and sprinkle half the salt and pepper onto the potatos.
- Bake, uncovered, for 10 to 15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly browned and crisp.
- Turn the potatoes. Brush on the rest of the olive oil, and sprinkle the rest of the salt and pepper.
- Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the potatoes are crisp and lightly browned.
- Combine the cheese and parsley in a bowl. Sprinkle on the potatoes and bake for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.