FIRST STEP: COOK THE POTATOES

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Since baby potatoes have thin skins, there’s no need to peel them. Cut any large potatoes in half so that they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
2. Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes as they cook. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Test by inserting a fork into a potato—if it slides in easily, they are ready.
3. Drain and Dry the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them sit for a few minutes to steam off any excess moisture. This step is crucial to ensuring that the potatoes don’t become soggy.

SECOND STEP: CRUSH AND SEASON THE POTATOES

1. Preheat the Oven: While the potatoes are draining, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help achieve the crispy exterior on the potatoes.
2. Smash the Potatoes: Transfer the cooked potatoes to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it flattens, but still holds its shape. You want them to be smashed, not completely mashed, for that satisfying crispy texture.
3. Season the Potatoes: In a small bowl, melt the butter and olive oil together. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh herbs (if using), salt, and pepper. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the smashed potatoes, ensuring that each one is well-coated. You can also use a brush to make sure every potato gets the right amount of flavor.

THIRD STEP: ROAST THE POTATOES

1. Roast the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy on the edges. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure they crisp evenly.
2. Check for Crispiness: After the potatoes have had time to roast, check for golden, crispy edges. If they’re not crispy enough, you can let them roast for an additional 5-10 minutes until you reach your desired level of crunchiness.

FINAL STEP: GARNISH AND SERVE

1. Add Final Touches: Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra layer of flavor. You can also drizzle more melted butter for added richness.
2. Garnish: Top the potatoes with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy accompaniment.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the smashed potatoes to a serving platter and enjoy them hot, crispy, and utterly delicious. Serve them as a side dish to complement your favorite main course or enjoy them on their own as a snack.