Montreal Garlic Smashed Potatoes: A Flavor Revelation

The first time I tasted Montreal steak seasoning, I was grilling with my dad, probably around 10 years old. The smell alone – that savory, peppery blend of spices – was intoxicating. He generously coated a thick-cut ribeye, and the flavor was unforgettable. But I never imagined those bold flavors could elevate something as simple as potatoes to something truly special. These Montreal Garlic Smashed Potatoes are a testament to the power of unexpected flavor combinations, a symphony of savory delight that will have you reaching for seconds.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: Approximately 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 lbs baby red potatoes, halved
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ¼ teaspoons McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon McCormick Garlic Powder
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup sour cream

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan
• Potato masher or fork
• 1 ½ quart baking dish (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by placing the halved baby red potatoes in a large saucepan. Cover them completely with water.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The fork should slide in easily with minimal resistance.
3. Carefully drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to low.
4. Add the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 ¼ teaspoons of McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of McCormick Garlic Powder to the potatoes.
5. Using a potato masher or a sturdy fork, begin to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. Some chunks are perfectly fine for a “smashed” texture.
6. Gradually add the ½ cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of butter, and ½ cup of sour cream to the potatoes. Continue mashing and stirring until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
7. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Alternatively, if you prefer, spoon the potatoes into a lightly buttered 1 ½ quart baking dish.
8. If using the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil and keep warm in a preheated 250°F (120°C) oven until ready to serve. This will prevent them from drying out.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For extra creamy potatoes, use room-temperature milk, butter, and sour cream. This helps them incorporate more smoothly.
• Don’t peel the potatoes! The skins add texture and nutrients to the dish.
• To prevent the potatoes from sticking to the saucepan, use a non-stick pan or add a tablespoon of butter to the bottom of the pan before returning the drained potatoes.
• If you don’t have a potato masher, a sturdy whisk or even an electric mixer (on low speed) can be used. However, be careful not to overmix when using an electric mixer.
• If your potatoes seem too dry, add a splash more milk. If they are too wet, cook them uncovered over low heat for a few minutes to allow some of the moisture to evaporate.
• For a richer flavor, use brown butter. Simply melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, swirling occasionally, until it turns a nutty brown color and has a fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
• To add more complexity, consider roasting a head of garlic and mashing a few cloves into the potatoes. The roasted garlic adds a sweet and savory depth of flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Montreal Garlic Smashed Potatoes are best served warm, straight from the stovetop or oven. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for added visual appeal and a fresh flavor contrast. They make a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even vegetarian entrees like lentil loaf.

Leftover potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or butter to prevent them from drying out. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture can become grainy upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	290 kcal	15%
Total Fat	13g	20%
Saturated Fat	8g	40%
Cholesterol	35mg	12%
Sodium	220mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	35g	12%
Dietary Fiber	4g	16%
Sugars	2g	4%
Protein	9g	18%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, the butter with vegan butter, and the sour cream with a plant-based sour cream alternative. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan substitute.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the potatoes for a little heat.
• Herby: Mix in some fresh chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheesy: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Gruyere, or mozzarella, in addition to or instead of the Parmesan.
• Loaded: Turn these into “loaded” smashed potatoes by topping with bacon bits, shredded cheese, green onions, and an extra dollop of sour cream.
• Sweet Potato Version: Substitute some or all of the red potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, slightly different flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular red potatoes instead of baby red potatoes?

A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to cut them into smaller, more uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the potatoes up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently before serving, adding a splash of milk or butter if needed to restore moisture.

Q: What if I don’t have Montreal steak seasoning?

A: You can make your own! Combine equal parts black pepper, coriander, dill seed, dried garlic, dried onion, paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Q: Can I use a different type of milk?

A: Absolutely! Any type of milk will work, but whole milk will give you the creamiest results.

Q: Are these potatoes gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as the Montreal steak seasoning you use is gluten-free (some brands may contain gluten).

Final Thoughts

These Montreal Garlic Smashed Potatoes are a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory Parmesan cheese, and bold Montreal steak seasoning is truly irresistible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to create your own unique version. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback! These potatoes pair wonderfully with a grilled steak or roasted chicken for a complete and delicious meal. Enjoy!