If you’re searching for the perfect combination of crunchy edges and tender, fluffy insides, this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is going to steal your heart. These golden, flavorful bites bring simple ingredients together in a way that feels both comforting and gourmet. Whether you’re craving a satisfying snack or a show-stopping side dish, this recipe promises an irresistible texture with every bite and a burst of herbal, garlicky goodness that’s hard to beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the magic. Each element in this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe plays a vital role—from the tender baby potatoes that soak up flavors, to the fragrant herbs and spices that elevate the dish to something truly special.
- 2 pounds baby potatoes: Small and tender, they cook evenly and create the perfect canvas for crisping up.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Helps the potatoes get that gorgeous golden crust while adding rich flavor.
- Salt to taste: Essential for bringing out all the natural and seasoned flavors.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds a subtle kick and depth to balance the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic boost that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smoky sweetness and a touch of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a woodsy, herbal note that pairs perfectly with roasted potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds piney, fragrant undertones that make this recipe extra special.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the potatoes get that intense heat they need to crisp up beautifully while baking.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place your baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them completely with water. Bring the water to a boil, then let the potatoes cook for 15-20 minutes until they’re tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. This softness on the inside is crucial for that perfect, fluffy texture once smashed.
Step 3: Drain and Cool
Drain the hot water from the potatoes and allow them to cool just enough so you can handle them safely. This little pause makes smashing easier without the risk of burning yourself.
Step 4: Smash with Care
Place each potato on a cutting board or a sturdy surface, then gently press down with a fork to flatten it without breaking it apart completely. The goal is to keep the potato in one piece while increasing its surface area to maximize crispiness later on.
Step 5: Seasoning Magic
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Each spoonful of this fragrant mixture will soak into every crevice of your smashed potatoes, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 6: Arrange and Brush
Lay the smashed potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced out just enough to crisp on all sides. Then, generously brush your seasoned oil mixture over each piece, coating surfaces evenly for that perfect golden finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the potatoes in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the edges should turn a beautiful golden brown and crisp up delightfully, making the kitchen smell like pure comfort.
Step 8: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, serve your crispy smashed potatoes immediately for the best texture and flavor. They’re perfect as a side or even as a finger food for gatherings.
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh pop of color and brightness. For a little extra indulgence, a light dusting of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream can take these potatoes over the top. Garlic lovers might also enjoy a drizzle of garlic aioli as a dipping sauce.
Side Dishes
These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a juicy steak. They also make a fantastic partner for a crisp green salad, balancing hearty and fresh flavors in every meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, consider serving your crispy smashed potatoes on a rustic wooden board alongside assorted dips and garnishes. Another idea is to stack them in a mini tower and drizzle with a spicy yogurt sauce for a trendy, restaurant-style touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After they’ve cooled, place leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Re-crisping later is easy and just as delicious.
Freezing
While these are best fresh, you can freeze the cooked potatoes raw before smashing. Simply boil, cool, and freeze in a single layer. When ready, thaw, smash, season, and bake as usual. Keep in mind that freezing might slightly affect texture.
Reheating
To bring back the crispiness, reheat the potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes or until hot and crunchy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just remember, larger potatoes will take longer to boil and may need to be cut into smaller chunks before smashing for even cooking and crisping.
What can I substitute for olive oil in the recipe?
You can use melted butter or avocado oil for a slightly different flavor and crispiness. Both options complement the herbs and spices well.
How do I ensure my potatoes stay crispy?
Make sure they’re well spaced on the baking sheet and that the oven is fully preheated. Also, brushing them generously with oil helps promote that golden-crisp texture.
Can I bake these potatoes without garlic or herbs?
Yes, you can customize the flavor to your liking! Garlic and herbs add depth, but a simple salt and pepper seasoned version is still delicious.
Is this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! They make a great side dish to prepare ahead and reheat. Just follow proper storage and reheating tips to keep them tasty.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about these crispy smashed potatoes that feels both homey and special. This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe combines straightforward steps with a flavor-packed result you’ll want to return to again and again. So grab some baby potatoes, get smashing, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite side dish.
Print
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish featuring tender boiled baby potatoes smashed and baked with a flavorful olive oil and herb mixture until golden and crispy.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
Seasoning Mix
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the potatoes to a crispy finish.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender, indicating they are cooked through but still hold their shape.
- Drain and Cool: Drain the water from the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle for smashing.
- Smash Potatoes: Place each potato on a cutting board and gently press down with a fork to flatten slightly, increasing the surface area for crisping during baking.
- Prepare Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to create a flavorful brush-on dressing for the potatoes.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the smashed potatoes in a single layer to allow even cooking.
- Coat Potatoes: Brush the seasoned olive oil mixture generously over each smashed potato, ensuring they are evenly coated to enhance flavor and promote crispiness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes develop a golden brown, crispy exterior while remaining soft inside.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the crispy smashed potatoes hot as a savory and satisfying side dish to any meal.
Notes
- Use baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes for best results, as they hold their shape well when boiled and smashed.
- Adjust garlic and herbs in the seasoning mix according to your taste preference.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or halved depending on serving requirements.
- Leftover potatoes can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness rather than microwaving.
