Description
Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes with Garlic combine tender red potatoes smashed and roasted to a golden crisp, infused with fresh garlic, topped with smoky turkey bacon and melted plant-based cheese for a flavorful and satisfying snack or side dish. Easy to prepare and packed with contrasting textures and bold tastes, this recipe is perfect for any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds small to medium red potatoes
- 4–5 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prep and Boil the Potatoes: Wash the red potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender but still hold shape, about 15-20 minutes.
- Smash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and arrange them gently on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or measuring cup, press each potato down until about half an inch thick to increase surface area for crisping.
- Season and Add Garlic: Drizzle olive oil evenly over the smashed potatoes. Toss minced garlic in the oil then brush or sprinkle all over the potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste for enhanced flavor.
- Roast to Perfection: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast potatoes for 25 minutes until edges are crispy and golden. Flip potatoes halfway through for even crisping.
- Add Smoked Turkey Bacon and Plant-Based Cheese: While roasting, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle bacon and shredded plant-based cheese on potatoes when nearly done. Return to oven for 5 more minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use small, evenly sized potatoes for best cooking and crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd baking sheet to prevent steaming.
- Brush olive oil generously for golden, crunchy crust.
- Fresh garlic provides more vibrant flavor than powder.
- Allow plant-based cheese to reach room temperature before melting for even coverage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes, red potatoes, garlic potatoes, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, easy side dish, roasted potatoes