You know that moment when you take a bite of something so delicious it feels like a warm hug from the inside? That’s exactly how smashed potatoes make me feel. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and drizzled with olive oil and spices that dance on your taste buds like they just won a talent show. These little wonders should be illegal. They are that good.
Picture this: It’s a cozy Sunday afternoon, family gathered around the table, laughter echoing in the air, and there I am, proudly serving a heaping platter of smashed potatoes. The smell wafts through the room, pulling everyone closer—because who can resist the siren call of perfectly roasted potatoes? Trust me; these beauties will become your new go-to comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Smashed potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- Their delightful flavor profile combines crispy edges and fluffy insides that create an irresistible contrast
- The vibrant golden color makes them visually appealing on any dinner plate
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with almost any main dish or serve as a snack
I’ll never forget the look on my friend Sarah’s face when she first tried these smashed potatoes. Her eyes lit up like fireworks on the Fourth of July, and I knew I was onto something special.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Baby Potatoes: Choose small, firm potatoes for optimal smashing—these will roast beautifully.
-
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil adds rich flavor and crispy texture; don’t skimp here.
-
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for elevating all flavors; season generously!
-
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme work wonders; use fresh herbs for that garden-fresh aroma.
-
Garlic Powder: Adds depth to your potatoes without any chopping; simply sprinkle it in!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Potatoes: Begin by washing about two pounds of baby potatoes thoroughly under cool water to remove dirt. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they roast nicely.
Boil Those Babies: Place your cleaned potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a gentle boil and cook until fork-tender—roughly 15-20 minutes works wonders.
Smashed to Perfection: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Use a potato masher or fork to gently smash each potato until they’re about half an inch thick—don’t worry about perfection here!
Add Some Flavor: Drizzle olive oil over your smashed potatoes and sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your choice of fresh herbs. Toss gently until evenly coated.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange the seasoned smashed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for around 25-30 minutes until golden-brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy!: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them just as they are—pure bliss!
You Must Know
- Smashed potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a flavor explosion!
- The crispy edges and fluffy centers will make your taste buds do a happy dance
- Perfect for any meal, these potatoes can steal the show or complement your main dish beautifully
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve heavenly smashed potatoes, start by boiling them until tender, then gently smash and roast for crispy perfection. This two-step cooking method ensures you get that delightful crunch while keeping the insides fluffy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to sprinkle in herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting for an aromatic twist. You can also drizzle with garlic-infused oil or melted butter for extra flavor and richness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose waxy potatoes for smashing; they hold their shape better
- Avoid over-boiling, as this leads to waterlogged potatoes that won’t crisp up nicely
- When smashing, use a fork or potato masher to control texture and avoid a mushy mess
Cooking smashed potatoes reminds me of family gatherings where my cousin tried to impress us with his “chef skills” but ended up creating an epic potato disaster instead—let’s just say we all enjoyed the takeout that day!
FAQ
What type of potatoes are best for smashed potatoes?
Waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for achieving optimal texture and flavor.
Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and reheat them before serving for convenience.
How do I ensure my smashed potatoes are crispy?
Roasting them after smashing creates that perfect crispy exterior everyone loves!
Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together crispy edges and fluffy interiors for a flavor experience that feels like a warm hug. With a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs, these delightful little bites are perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to casual gatherings with friends. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, smashed potatoes will quickly become your go-to side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme (chopped)
Instructions
- Wash and dry 2 pounds of baby potatoes.
- Place in salted water and boil for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and let cool slightly; smash each potato to about half an inch thick.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs; toss gently.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 25-30 minutes until golden-brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
