The aroma of crispy smashed potatoes wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug from your mom on a chilly day. Golden brown and irresistibly crunchy, these little gems provide the perfect crunch that makes every bite a delightful experience. You can practically hear them whispering your name as they come out of the oven, inviting you to indulge in their deliciousness.
I remember the first time I made crispy smashed potatoes; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them at our dinner party. With buttery goodness and a sprinkle of herbs, they quickly became the star of the show. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these potatoes are sure to make an appearance on your table—and steal the spotlight!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These crispy smashed potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare and offer an explosion of flavor
- Their visually appealing golden crust makes them irresistible on any plate
- Perfect as a side dish or snack, you can customize toppings based on your mood
- Plus, they’re suitable for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive gatherings!
Making crispy smashed potatoes is always a hit with my family. Everyone looks forward to digging in, eyes wide with anticipation.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baby Potatoes: Choose firm baby potatoes for optimal texture; they hold up beautifully when smashed.
- Olive Oil: A generous drizzle adds flavor and helps achieve that golden-brown crispiness.
- Salt: Kosher salt is ideal for seasoning; it enhances flavors without overwhelming.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper elevates the taste and adds a touch of warmth.
- Fresh Herbs: Use rosemary or thyme for an aromatic finish that complements the dish perfectly.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth and richness; I never skip this essential ingredient!
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): For an indulgent twist, sprinkle on some grated Parmesan before baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Potatoes: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the baby potatoes thoroughly until they shine like new pennies.
Boil Until Tender: Place the washed potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes should do.
Smashed Like You Mean It!: Drain the boiled potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Grab your trusty potato masher or even the bottom of a sturdy glass and smash each potato flat but not completely!
Add Flavor and Bake: Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs. If you fancy cheese, now’s the time! Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.
The Final Touches: Once you pull those beauties out of the oven, let them rest for just a minute before serving. They’ll be steaming hot with aromatic herbs wafting through your kitchen—your guests won’t be able to resist!
These crispy smashed potatoes bring joy not only from their taste but also from their charming personality on any platter—they practically dance off into everyone’s hearts! Enjoy making these delightful bites; they’re sure to become your new favorite side dish!
You Must Know
- Crispy smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, providing a delightful crunch and buttery softness
- Perfect for any occasion, they can elevate your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary with their irresistible flavor and texture
- Serve them with a dip or alongside your favorite main dish for a crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then smash them flat on a baking sheet. Drizzle with oil and season well before roasting for that crispy finish.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with different toppings like cheddar cheese, bacon bits, or fresh herbs to personalize your crispy smashed potatoes. These additions can transform flavors and make the dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect crispy smashed potatoes, choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds for a fluffy inside
- Always allow enough space on the baking sheet for even cooking and crispiness
- Don’t skip seasoning; salt is your best friend here!
Sharing my first attempt at crispy smashed potatoes brings back such fond memories. Friends couldn’t stop raving about them, claiming they were better than fries!
FAQ
What type of potatoes is best for crispy smashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best as they yield a fluffy interior.
Can I make crispy smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare them fully and refrigerate, then reheat before serving.
How can I ensure my smashed potatoes are extra crispy?
Use plenty of oil and bake at a high temperature for optimal crispiness.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy smashed potatoes are a must-try side dish, perfectly golden and crunchy, bursting with flavor. Simple to make, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal!
Ingredients
- Baby potatoes
- Olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and scrub baby potatoes until clean.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and let cool slightly, then smash each potato on a lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes; season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato (about 100g)
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 308mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider toppings like cheddar cheese or bacon bits. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.