Cheesy Crash Hot Potatoes

Enjoy Cheesy Crash Hot Potatoes—easy to make, with crispy edges and fluffy centers. Loaded with cheese and loved by kids, they're perfect for any meal. Try this family favorite!

Cheesy Crash Hot Potatoes are the perfect combination of simplicity and mouth-watering flavor, making them an absolute favorite for families everywhere. This dish starts with humble baby potatoes, which are boiled until tender, then gently smashed and topped with a rich mixture of cheese, garlic, and herbs before being baked to golden, crispy perfection.

The process is straightforward and doesn't require any specialized culinary skills.

The process is straightforward and doesn't require any specialized culinary skills, making it accessible even for novice home cooks. Prepping the potatoes involves minimal effort, and the oven does most of the work, freeing you up to prepare other elements of your meal or to simply relax with your family.

Cheesy Crash Hot Potatoes delivers a delightful experience

When it comes to taste, Cheesy Crash Hot Potatoes delivers a delightful experience that young and old alike can't resist. The crispy edges contrast beautifully with the soft, fluffy potato interior, all smothered in melted cheese that adds a comforting, savory richness.

Kids, in particular, adore these potatoes for their fun texture and cheesy goodness,

Kids, in particular, adore these potatoes for their fun texture and cheesy goodness, often requesting them as a repeat favorite for dinner or special occasions. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile; it pairs well with a variety of main courses like grilled meats and roasted vegetables or even as a hearty snack on its own. Loved by kids and adults alike, these cheesy, crispy potatoes exemplify how simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Serves 4

Ingredients

1 lb. small red potatoes
5 T. unsalted butter, cut into small chunks
4 oz. aged Asiago cheese, freshly grated
3 T. fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 T. fresh thyme, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Potato Crushers Here..

Tip: If you do not have a potato masher, you can flatten the potatoes using the bottom of a heavy coffee mug or soup bowl. (Choose a sturdy item that won’t crack from the pressure of pressing down on the boiled potatoes.)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 450°F and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil

Boil a large pot of salted water and add potatoes. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are fork tender. Drain pot and set potatoes aside to cool.

Once cool enough to handle, place potatoes on prepared baking sheet and mash with a potato masher until flat. Leave room between potatoes so they are not overcrowded.

Top each potato with butter and half the Asiago cheese and fresh parsley. Place in pre-heated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are nicely browned.

Remove from oven and top with remaining cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Here are some helpful tips and variations for making Cheesy Crash Hot Potatoes:

Tips:

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, use baby or new potatoes; they are small and cook evenly.
2. Boil Until Just Tender: Boil the potatoes until fork-tender but not too soft to prevent them from falling apart during smashing.
3. Use a Baking Sheet: A large, flat baking sheet allows for even spacing and crisping.
4. Apply Even Pressure: Gently press down on each potato with a potato masher or the bottom of a sturdy glass, ensuring an even smash.
5. Generously Oil the Potatoes: Brush or drizzle olive oil liberally over the smashed potatoes to enhance crispiness.
6. Season Well: Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before baking to maximize flavor.
7. Bake at High Temperature: Roast the potatoes in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes to achieve a crispy exterior.
8. Monitor for Doneness: Watch the potatoes to ensure they don’t burn, and adjust the time as needed based on their size and your specific oven.

Variations:

1. Different Cheeses: Experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyere for unique flavors.
2. Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or chives instead of, or in addition to, parsley.
3. Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before baking for a spicy kick.
4. Bacon Bits: Sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon over the cheese before baking for added savory flavor.
5. Garlic Lovers: Infuse your olive oil with minced garlic or use garlic-infused olive oil for an extra garlic punch.
6. Loaded Potatoes: After baking, top with sour cream, green onions, and even a drizzle of ranch dressing for a loaded potato experience.
7. Healthier Options: Use sweet potatoes as a nutrient-dense alternative with a slightly sweet taste.
8. Cheese Alternates: Try vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version to get a cheesy flavor still.

These tips and variations can help you customize and perfect your Cheesy Crash Hot Potatoes to suit your family's tastes and create a versatile, delicious dish every time!

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