If you love crispy potatoes and the bold, tangy flavors of a classic Caesar salad, you’re in for a treat! These Crispy Caesar Smashed Potatoes take bite-sized mini potatoes, smash them to perfection, and coat them with creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese for an irresistible, golden-baked crunch. The result? A snackable, cheesy, and flavor-packed side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal or serves as a delicious appetizer on its own.
The best part? No peeling, no boiling—just a simple, oven-baked method that delivers crispy edges and a fluffy potato interior every time. Serve these up with extra dressing for dipping, and you’ve got a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try them for your next dinner or gathering, and watch them disappear in minutes!
Full Recipe:
- 1 1/2 pounds small mini potatoes (about the size of a ping-pong ball)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing, divided, plus more as desired
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
- Wash and dry the potatoes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly, then space them 1/2 inch apart. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven. Use the flat bottom of a drinking glass to gently smash them. Spray the bottom of the glass with cooking spray as needed to prevent sticking.
- Brush 2 tablespoons of Caesar dressing onto the smashed potatoes using a pastry brush. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and immediately brush on the remaining 2 tablespoons of Caesar dressing. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if using.
- Serve hot with extra Caesar dressing on the side for dipping.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 206 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings
Crispy Caesar Smashed Potatoes – A Flavorful and Easy Side Dish
When it comes to side dishes, few things are as universally loved as crispy, golden potatoes. But what if you could take that classic crispy potato texture and elevate it with the rich, tangy flavors of Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese? Enter Crispy Caesar Smashed Potatoes, a recipe that combines everything you love about roasted potatoes with the creamy, umami-packed goodness of a Caesar salad. This easy-to-make dish requires just three main ingredients, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even as an appetizer for your next gathering.
What Makes These Potatoes Special?
Unlike traditional smashed potatoes, which often require boiling before roasting, this recipe simplifies the process by baking the potatoes straight from the start. This method not only cuts down on prep time but also helps preserve the natural flavors and textures of the potatoes. Once they are roasted to tenderness, they are smashed flat to create a surface area that crisps up beautifully in the oven. The addition of Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese takes these potatoes to the next level, infusing them with creamy, cheesy goodness and a slightly tangy, garlicky flavor.
The result? A dish that is crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with bold, savory flavors. Whether you serve these potatoes as a side dish to your favorite protein, as a fun appetizer with extra dressing for dipping, or even as a standalone snack, they are sure to be a hit.
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
This recipe was inspired by the recent trend of Caesar salad and fries, a combination that has taken social media by storm. The contrast of crispy fries with the creamy, salty Caesar dressing creates a delicious pairing that people can’t get enough of. Instead of using traditional fries, this recipe swaps them out for smashed mini potatoes, which provide an extra crispy texture while absorbing the dressing and cheese beautifully.
Moreover, Caesar dressing is already a well-loved condiment that adds depth of flavor to almost anything. Pairing it with roasted potatoes seemed like a natural step, and the result is a dish that is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and full of delicious contrasts—crispy yet creamy, cheesy yet tangy.
The Best Potatoes to Use for Smashed Potatoes
The key to achieving the best texture in smashed potatoes lies in choosing the right variety. For this recipe, mini Yukon Golds or baby red potatoes work best because they have thin skins and a creamy interior. The skin crisps up beautifully in the oven while the inside remains soft and fluffy.
It’s important to select potatoes that are about the size of a ping-pong ball for even cooking. If you use larger potatoes, they will take longer to roast and may not smash as evenly. Smaller potatoes create the perfect bite-sized portion, making them great for both individual servings and party platters.
Tips for the Crispiest Smashed Potatoes
If you want extra-crispy smashed potatoes, there are a few simple tricks that can help:
- Use a hot oven: Baking at 450°F (232°C) ensures the potatoes get crispy without drying out. A lower temperature might not give you the same crunchy texture.
- Give them space: When placing the potatoes on the baking sheet, make sure they are spread out with enough room between them. Overcrowding can trap steam and prevent crispiness.
- Smash them evenly: Use the flat bottom of a drinking glass to press down on the potatoes. A flat surface ensures even contact with the baking sheet, helping them crisp up properly.
- Spray the glass: Lightly spraying the bottom of your glass with cooking spray prevents sticking and keeps the potatoes intact.
- Double bake for extra crunch: The first bake softens the potatoes, and the second bake crisps them up after they are smashed and topped with dressing and cheese.
Choosing the Right Caesar Dressing
Not all Caesar dressings are created equal, and the one you choose can make a big difference in the flavor of your smashed potatoes. A thick, creamy Caesar dressing works best because it sticks to the potatoes and doesn’t get lost in the baking process.
For store-bought options, Ken’s Creamy Caesar is a top choice because it has a rich, tangy flavor and a thick consistency that coats the potatoes well. If that’s not available, Kraft Classic Caesar is another great alternative. For a vegan version, Daiya Creamy Caesar offers a delicious dairy-free option with a flavor profile that mimics traditional Caesar dressing.
Of course, if you prefer a homemade touch, you can whip up your own Caesar dressing using ingredients like mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Homemade dressing allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking and create a fresher, more personalized taste.
Ways to Customize This Recipe
One of the best things about Crispy Caesar Smashed Potatoes is how easy they are to customize. Here are some creative ways to change things up:
- Add bacon crumbles for a smoky, salty kick.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a slightly sweet contrast.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty, citrusy boost.
- Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.
No matter how you customize them, these potatoes will always be full of flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
These smashed potatoes are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for serving them:
- As a side dish for grilled chicken, steak, or fish
- Alongside a fresh Caesar salad for a double Caesar-themed meal
- As an appetizer with a small bowl of extra dressing for dipping
- Topped with a fried egg for a delicious brunch option
- Served next to a juicy burger for an alternative to fries
They’re also a great addition to holiday spreads, game-day snacks, or casual family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love Crispy Caesar Smashed Potatoes:
✔ Easy to make with minimal ingredients
✔ No peeling or boiling required
✔ Extra crispy texture with a creamy inside
✔ Bold, tangy flavors from Caesar dressing and Parmesan
✔ Pairs well with a variety of main dishes
✔ Customizable with different toppings and seasonings
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight side dish or an exciting new appetizer, these potatoes check all the boxes.
Conclusion
Crispy Caesar Smashed Potatoes are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and tangy flavors, making them an irresistible addition to any meal. With minimal ingredients and a simple baking process, this recipe is both effortless and rewarding. By skipping the traditional boiling step and letting the oven do the work, you get crispy-edged potatoes that absorb the rich Caesar dressing and Parmesan perfectly.
With plenty of ways to customize them and endless serving possibilities, these potatoes are guaranteed to become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, one thing is certain—once you try them, you won’t be able to stop eating them!