Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Chop the Potatoes:

Start by peeling the russet potatoes and chopping them into even-sized chunks. This helps ensure they cook evenly and mash smoothly.

2. Boil the Potatoes:

Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.

3. Drain and Mash:

Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. You can add 1 tablespoon of butter at this stage for extra richness, though this is optional.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

1. Add Garlic and Spices:

To the mashed potatoes, add minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir everything together until the seasonings are evenly distributed.

2. Mix in Parmesan:

If you’re using Parmesan cheese, fold it into the mashed potatoes. The Parmesan adds a delicious savory flavor and helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven.

3. Taste and Adjust Seasonings:

Taste the mashed potato mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or paprika depending on your preference.

Step 3: Prepare the Skull Molds

1. Grease the Skull Molds:

Lightly grease your skull-shaped silicone molds with a bit of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This helps ensure the potatoes release easily once baked.

2. Fill the Molds:

Spoon the seasoned mashed potatoes into each skull mold, pressing down to fill the mold evenly. Make sure to pack the potatoes firmly so they hold their shape once removed.

3. Optional Cheese Filling:

For an extra cheesy surprise, press a small piece of cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the center of each skull mold, then cover it with more mashed potato. The cheese will melt as the potatoes bake, creating a gooey center.

Step 4: Bake the Skull Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the filled skull molds on a baking sheet to make it easier to transfer them in and out of the oven.

2. Bake the Potatoes:

Bake the skull potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy on the outside. The edges should be slightly browned, and the potatoes should hold their shape when removed from the molds.

3. Cool Slightly:

Allow the potatoes to cool in the molds for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them. This gives them time to set, making it easier to pop them out of the molds without breaking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with Parsley:

Once the potatoes are out of the molds, transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

2. Serve with Dipping Sauces:

Serve your Spooky Halloween Skull Potatoes with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sour cream, ketchup, or spicy aioli. These sauces add an extra layer of flavor and make the dish even more fun to eat.

3. Optional Lemon Drizzle:

For a tangy twist, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the skull potatoes before serving. The acidity of the lemon complements the richness of the potatoes and adds a refreshing contrast.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Spooky Halloween Skull Potatoes

These crispy, spooky potatoes are sure to be a hit at your Halloween party or family gathering! Serve them hot and watch as your guests delight in their festive appearance and delicious flavor.