Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

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Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, and if you haven’t tried them yet, you’re in for a delightful treat. Imagine creamy, tender potatoes that are beautifully golden and crispy on the outside, loaded with cheese and crispy bacon. This dish is not just perfect for a cozy family dinner; it shines at potlucks, brunches, or any occasion where comfort food is welcomed. The best part? It’s easy to make and budget-friendly!

Why you’ll love this dish

This recipe is a magical combination of flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. You’ll appreciate the creamy richness of the sharp cheddar cheese mingling with the smoky, crunchy bits of bacon. Plus, who can resist those glorious smashed potatoes? Even picky eaters are sure to devour these like they’re going out of style.

One of my favorite things about Cheesy Smashed Potatoes is how versatile they are. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick yet satisfying. Whether served alongside grilled chicken or set as a centerpiece for friends and family, they never disappoint.

"I made these for a family gathering, and they were gone in minutes! Everyone kept asking for the recipe. Thanks for such a delicious dish!" – Happy Cook

Preparing Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

This recipe for Cheesy Smashed Potatoes is straightforward and user-friendly. The entire process takes about an hour, but most of that time involves letting the potatoes boil and bake while you stretch your legs. Here’s how it goes down:

1. Start with baby potatoes coated in flavorful vegetable broth.
2. Pick crisp, smoky bacon that will elevate each bite.
3. Combine these elements with garlic, spices, and rich cheddar cheese, and get ready to bake!

What you’ll need

To bring these scrumptious Cheesy Smashed Potatoes to life, gather the following ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (rinsed)
• 32 ounces vegetable broth (plus water, if needed to cover the potatoes)
• 5 strips bacon (cooked until crispy and crumbled)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)

Feel free to experiment with the cheese varieties or swap out the bacon for a vegetarian option.

Step-by-step instructions

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1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
2. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed baby potatoes with vegetable broth, adding water if necessary to cover them.
3. Boil the mixture over medium heat until the potatoes are fork-tender, usually around 15-20 minutes.
4. Drain the potatoes and place them on a cutting board or baking sheet to cool slightly.
5. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy, then crumble it and set it aside.
6. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, and seasonings until well combined.
7. Toss the warm potatoes in the oil mixture, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated.
8. Arrange the potatoes on the lined baking sheet. Cover them with a piece of parchment paper, then place another baking sheet on top. Use it to smash each potato to about ½ inch thick.
9. Remove the top baking sheet and parchment paper, and pour the leftover olive oil mixture over the smashed potatoes.
10. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Flip the potatoes over and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
11. Top the potatoes with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon, then return to the oven for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts.
12. Serve hot, adding any of your favorite toppings!

Best ways to enjoy it

Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with a variety of mains, such as:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• A fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette
• Steamed veggies for a healthier twist

Consider adding a dollop of sour cream, fresh chives, or even jalapeños for a kick!

Storage and reheating tips

Storing Cheesy Smashed Potatoes is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick fix. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly after freezing.

Pro chef tips

• Uniform potatoes: Choosing similarly sized baby potatoes ensures even cooking.
• Crispy bacon: For the best flavor, use thick-cut bacon. You can also bake it in the oven for a mess-free way of cooking.
• Extra flavor: Try adding sautéed onions or fresh herbs into the olive oil mixture for added depth!

Creative twists

Want to put a new spin on this classic recipe? Here are some fun variations:

• Cheesy Buffalo Smashed Potatoes: Mix in some hot sauce with the olive oil and top with bleu cheese.
• Italian Flair: Swap out the cheddar for mozzarella and add Italian seasoning.
• Vegan Version: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to make Cheesy Smashed Potatoes?
From prep to finish, this recipe takes about 1 hour.

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while baby potatoes are great, you can use other types like Yukon Gold or Red potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time according to their size.

How do I ensure they turn out crispy?
Make sure to spread them out evenly on the baking sheet and allow enough roasting time. Flipping them halfway through helps get that desired crunch!

With these tips and tricks, you’re all set to create your own savory and satisfying Cheesy Smashed Potatoes! Get ready for compliments from family and friends at your next meal!