Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are the perfect combination of crispy, golden edges and soft, fluffy insides. This side dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it ideal for any meal. With baby potatoes, olive oil, and your favorite seasonings, these smashed potatoes are roasted to crispy perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack, they are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The ingredients are simple, and the preparation requires minimal effort, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
• Perfectly Crispy: The ultimate contrast between crispy edges and soft, pillowy centers ensures that every bite is a treat.
• Versatile: Customize the flavors with a variety of seasonings, fresh herbs, or cheeses to match your taste preferences.
• Great for Any Occasion: These potatoes are perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or as an indulgent side at a special celebration.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs (900 g) baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the baby potatoes thoroughly, ensuring any dirt is removed. Place them into a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring the water to a boil, and let the potatoes cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. This ensures the potatoes will cook evenly and become soft enough for smashing.

Smash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and allow them to cool slightly for a few minutes. Arrange the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Using a fork, potato masher, or even the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until it is flattened but still intact. Be careful not to press too hard; you want the potatoes to retain their shape while creating a beautiful, crispy edge.

Season and Oil: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, ensuring each piece is well coated. This helps create that crispy texture during baking. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and feel free to add garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, sprinkle them over the potatoes for an aromatic touch. Toss the potatoes gently to coat both sides with the seasoning and oil mixture.

Bake: Now, it’s time to roast these potatoes to crispy perfection! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, flip the potatoes to ensure both sides are evenly roasted and golden brown. The result will be a delightful mix of crunchy edges and soft centers.

Add Finishing Touches: During the last 5 minutes of baking, you can add grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the potatoes for a savory and cheesy finish. If you prefer, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the potatoes once they are out of the oven for a burst of color and added freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: For an even richer dish, top your smashed potatoes with shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese. The melted cheese will create a gooey, indulgent layer on top.
• Spicy Twist: Add a bit of heat by sprinkling paprika, chili flakes, or even Cajun seasoning to give your smashed potatoes a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Use fresh dill, chives, or basil for a refreshing herbal touch that complements the rich flavor of the potatoes.
• Vegan Option: Skip the cheese and substitute with nutritional yeast to give your potatoes a cheesy flavor while keeping the dish vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy them later as a quick snack or side dish.
• Reheating: Reheat the potatoes in a 375°F (190°C) oven or in an air fryer for 5-10 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them as the texture can become soggy.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as the texture of the potatoes will change upon thawing. They are best enjoyed freshly made or within a few days of cooking.

FAQs

What type of potatoes work best for smashed potatoes? Baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choices for this recipe. Their small size makes them easy to smash, and they roast evenly, creating that perfect crispy texture. You can also use red potatoes for a slightly different taste and texture.

Can I boil the potatoes ahead of time? Yes! You can boil the potatoes up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply smash and roast them to get that perfect crispy texture.

How do I make them extra crispy? To ensure the potatoes become extra crispy, be sure they are well-coated with olive oil. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can prevent the potatoes from crisping up. Use a hot oven and flip the potatoes halfway through cooking for an even roast.

Can I use other oils? Absolutely! While olive oil is the most commonly used for this recipe, you can substitute it with avocado oil or even melted butter. Each oil will provide a slightly different flavor, but the end result will still be delicious.

Are smashed potatoes gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I make these in an air fryer? Definitely! If you prefer a quicker method, air frying the smashed potatoes works great. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

What dips pair well with smashed potatoes? These crispy potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Try serving them with sour cream, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a spicy ketchup for a flavorful twist.

Can I add bacon to this recipe? Yes! You can sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon on top of the smashed potatoes for a savory, smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.

How do I avoid breaking the potatoes while smashing? To avoid breaking the potatoes, apply gentle and even pressure when smashing. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher will help distribute the force evenly, preventing the potatoes from splitting too much.

Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe. However, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can affect the crispiness of the potatoes. If necessary, roast the potatoes in batches to ensure they all become golden and crispy.

Conclusion

Smashed potatoes are a versatile, crispy, and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with nearly any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a light snack, a hearty appetizer, or as a side dish to complement a main course, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With endless customization options and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Give it a try today and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and comforting flavors!

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Smashed Potatoes

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These crispy, golden smashed potatoes are an easy and delicious side dish, ideal for any meal. They combine a perfectly soft interior with a crunchy exterior for a satisfying texture in every bite.

Author: Beth
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4-6
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasted
Cuisine: American

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