Imagine biting into a crispy, golden potato that's smashed to perfection, loaded with cheesy goodness, and completely plant-based. These Vegan Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes are about to become your new obsession – a dish so delicious, you won't believe it's entirely dairy-free! Whether you're a committed vegan, a curious foodie, or just someone who loves mind-blowing side dishes, this recipe will transform your meal game and leave everyone at the table begging for more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup vegan cheese shreds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12-15 minutes until they are fork-tender but not falling apart.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly for 2-3 minutes. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer the potatoes to the prepared baking sheet. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato to flatten them, creating a rustic, smashed appearance. Be careful not to completely break them apart.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed potatoes, ensuring each potato is lightly coated. Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper evenly across the potatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle nutritional yeast and vegan cheese shreds over the hot potatoes.
- Return to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, enjoying the cheesy, flavorful vegan potatoes.
Tips
- Choose small, uniform baby potatoes for the best smashing results and even cooking.
- Make sure to thoroughly dry the potatoes after boiling to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Don't be too gentle when smashing – you want those deliciously crispy edges!
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or your favorite herb blend before baking.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly before smashing to prevent burning your hands.
- For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the potatoes for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the potatoes at their crispy, cheesy best.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
