Name: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds baby potatoes; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances crunch and fluffiness? Let me introduce you to crispy smashed potatoes—a culinary delight that brings joy with every bite. Imagine biting into a golden-brown exterior that gives way to soft, buttery goodness inside; it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Crispy smashed potatoes are ideal for any occasion. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, these potatoes promise to elevate your meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious side dish that pairs well with meats or veggies. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Irresistible Flavor: These crispy smashed potatoes boast rich flavors enhanced by seasonings like garlic and rosemary. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—the crisp outer layer combined with the tender inside makes for an exquisite experience.

Easy Preparation: Making crispy smashed potatoes requires minimal effort and time. You can prepare them in just a few simple steps, making this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings without sacrificing quality.

Versatile Side Dish: This recipe is incredibly versatile and complements various main courses. Whether you’re serving grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables, these smashed potatoes will add an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Crispy smashed potatoes are sure to impress guests at any event. Their unique presentation and mouthwatering taste create an unforgettable dining experience that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Baby Potatoes: Use small baby potatoes for the best results; they cook evenly and have a creamy texture.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps achieve that perfect crispiness on the outside.
Garlic Powder: This seasoning infuses the potatoes with aromatic flavor; fresh garlic can also be used for added depth.
Fresh Rosemary: Chopped fresh rosemary elevates the flavor profile; you can substitute it with other herbs like thyme if desired.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will ensure that your potatoes become beautifully crisp.

Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot of salted water, add the baby potatoes. Bring them to a boil and cook until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Slightly Smash the Potatoes: Once boiled, drain the water and let them cool slightly. Use a fork or potato masher to gently press down on each potato until they are flattened but not completely broken apart.

Add Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the smashed potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated in all flavors.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Arrange the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they develop a golden brown crust.

Transfer to plates and enjoy your crispy smashed potatoes as an unbeatable side dish!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Selecting Potatoes: Opt for waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red baby potatoes; they hold their shape better during cooking compared to starchy types.

Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure your olive oil is hot before placing in the oven; this will help achieve maximum crispiness on the outside of each potato.

Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: For cheesy goodness, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top of your smashed potatoes during the last few minutes of baking.

Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to try different herbs or spices based on your personal preference; smoked paprika or Italian seasoning can add exciting flavors!

Enjoy making these crispy smashed potatoes—your next meal will never be bland again!

Mistakes to avoid

Not using the right potatoes

Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for achieving the best crispy smashed potatoes. Waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes are ideal, as they hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture inside. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets, which can turn mushy when smashed. A good rule of thumb is to select medium-sized waxy potatoes that are uniform in size for even cooking. This ensures each piece gets that perfect crispy exterior while remaining tender within.

Skipping the boiling step

Boiling your potatoes before smashing them is an essential step that many overlook. This process softens the potatoes, allowing you to achieve that desired texture. If you skip this step, you risk ending up with hard centers that do not crisp up properly during baking. Boil your potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. This ensures that when you smash them, they spread out nicely and create more surface area for crispiness while baking.

Overcrowding the baking sheet

When preparing crispy smashed potatoes, give them enough space on your baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, resulting in soggy potatoes rather than crispy ones. Spread out the smashed potatoes on a large baking sheet so there is ample room between each piece. Aim for a single layer without overlapping; this allows hot air to circulate around each potato, promoting even browning and crunchiness on all sides.

Neglecting seasoning

Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of your crispy smashed potatoes. Many people make the mistake of under-seasoning or skipping it altogether, leading to bland results. Before baking, generously sprinkle salt and pepper over the smashed potatoes, as well as any additional herbs or spices that suit your taste. Consider using garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor depth. Proper seasoning will elevate your dish and make those crispy edges truly irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

This Crispy Smashed Potatoes is versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent choice alongside barbecued chicken or steak. The crunchy exterior of the potatoes complements the juicy texture of grilled proteins, enhancing the entire meal. Serve these potatoes at your next summer cookout, and watch them disappear quickly from the table.

You can also enjoy Crispy Smashed Potatoes as a delightful side dish for roasted vegetables. The crispy texture offers a satisfying contrast to softer sides like roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts. Adding fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme can elevate this combination, making it a flavorful and colorful addition to your dinner plate.

For a cozy family meal, serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes with a rich gravy or creamy sauce. This pairing works particularly well during colder months when comfort food takes center stage. A drizzle of homemade garlic sauce or mushroom gravy will make these potatoes irresistible.

Lastly, consider using Crispy Smashed Potatoes as a base for toppings like sour cream, chives, or cheese. Transform them into loaded smashed potatoes for an indulgent snack or appetizer. These toppings not only add flavor but also create visual appeal on your serving platter.

FAQs

What are Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

Crispy Smashed Potatoes are small, boiled potatoes that undergo smashing before being baked until crispy. This method creates a delightful texture contrast between the soft interior and the crispy exterior. They are seasoned to perfection and often served as a side dish in various meals.

How do I achieve the perfect crispiness?

To achieve perfect crispiness with your Crispy Smashed Potatoes, ensure they are well-boiled until fork-tender before smashing them flat. Use enough oil when baking to promote browning and crisping. Bake at high temperatures around 425°F (220°C) for optimal results.

Can I prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes ahead of time by boiling and smashing them earlier in the day. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them for about 25-30 minutes at 425°F (220°C). This method ensures they stay crispy and delicious when served.

What seasonings work best with Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

Crispy Smashed Potatoes lend themselves well to various seasonings. Classic options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor profile further. Feel free to experiment with spices that suit your taste preferences!

Conclusion

Crispy Smashed Potatoes offer an exciting twist on traditional potato dishes with their delightful crunch and soft interior. Ideal for any meal, they pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and rich sauces. Their versatility allows you to serve them in various ways—whether loaded with toppings or enjoyed simply seasoned. Preparing these potatoes is straightforward; just boil, smash, and bake. By following our tips for achieving maximum crispiness and experimenting with seasonings, you can create a side dish that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this delicious recipe at your next gathering!