Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups Recipe
If you have a soft spot for crispy, cheesy, and downright addictive snacks, then you are going to love the Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups. These little golden treasures are smashed baby potatoes baked in muffin tins with a generous sprinkle of parmesan and garlic. The result is a perfect crispy shell that’s flavorful and satisfying enough to enjoy as an appetizer, snack, or a delightful side. Thanks to their share-worthy charm and luscious texture, Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups have taken Pinterest by storm, and once you try them, you’ll understand why they are a total sensation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but essential to create that irresistible blend of crispy texture and rich flavor. Each element plays a crucial role in building the perfect potato cups that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Baby Potatoes: Smaller size means the perfect cup shape once smashed and baked.
- Grated Parmesan: This adds a nutty, salty crunch that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Olive Oil: Helps to crisp the potatoes and add a subtle fruity flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses the cups with aromatic garlicky goodness without overpowering.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors of the potatoes and cheese.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups
Step 1: Boil and Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by boiling your baby potatoes until they are tender but not falling apart. This step is crucial because it ensures your potatoes will be soft enough to smash yet firm enough to hold their shape in the muffin tin later on.
Step 2: Grease Your Muffin Tin
Once your potatoes are ready and cooled slightly, generously grease your muffin tin with olive oil. This prevents sticking and adds an extra layer of crispiness to the edges of your smash cups.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes into the Cups
Place each boiled potato into a muffin cup and gently press it down using the back of a spoon or your fingers. You want to flatten it just enough to cover the base and sides like a little bowl without breaking it apart.
Step 4: Season and Add Parmesan
Drizzle a touch of olive oil over each potato cup, then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your taste. Finally, divide the grated parmesan evenly on top. This layer is what gives the cups their golden, crispy crust that everyone loves.
Step 5: Bake Until Deeply Golden
Pop the muffin tin into a preheated oven at 220°C (425°F), and bake for about 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the cups should develop a gorgeous, deep golden color and crispiness that signals they’re ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups
Garnishes
To elevate your Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups, consider topping them with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley, or some crispy bacon bits. These garnishes add color, flavor, and a hint of freshness that perfectly complements the warm, cheesy crunch.
Side Dishes
These cups shine as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables. Their savory and crispy nature also pairs well with fresh salads or a tangy coleslaw, perfect for balancing out meals at a casual dinner or weekend BBQ.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups in mini muffin tins or on a rustic wooden board for a beautiful party appetizer display. For a fun twist, fill the cups with different toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, or even a drizzle of spicy aioli to cater to varied tastes and impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, you might want to separate layers with parchment paper.
Freezing
These potato cups freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and keep for up to 2 months. This makes a handy snack you can heat up anytime.
Reheating
To bring back the crispy magic, reheat your frozen or refrigerated cups in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make them soggy and dull the Parmesan crisp.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, but smaller potatoes are easier to smash into neat cups and cook more evenly. If using regular potatoes, cut them into smaller pieces before boiling to maintain the shape.
Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan is key for that crispy, flavorful crust. While you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino, Parmesan provides the best texture and taste balance.
Can I add other seasonings or herbs?
Absolutely! Feel free to add rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika for a twist. Just be mindful not to overpower the delicate potato and cheese flavors.
Are these potato cups gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it a safe and tasty option for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the muffin tin?
Generously greasing the muffin tin with olive oil before smashing the potatoes is essential. You can also use non-stick spray or brush with melted butter for extra assurance.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Crispy Parmesan Potato Smash Cups that makes them a crowd-pleaser every time. Their crunchy, cheesy exterior paired with soft, fluffy potato interiors hits all the right notes for comfort food lovers and snack enthusiasts alike. I can’t recommend enough that you give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a staple for gatherings, family dinners, or whenever you crave a little crispy potato magic.
