Crispy smashed potatoes are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine golden, crispy edges giving way to soft, fluffy centers that practically melt in your mouth. The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to make even the most disciplined dieter weak at the knees. This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or just because you deserve a treat!
I remember the first time I made crispy smashed potatoes. My friends were skeptical at first—until they took one bite and their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. The laughter, compliments, and requests for seconds were music to my ears. I knew I had found a recipe that would be part of our lives forever.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These crispy smashed potatoes are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for any weeknight meal
- The flavor profile balances buttery richness with savory herbs for an irresistible taste
- With their golden-brown crispiness and pillowy interior, they will steal the spotlight on any dinner table
- Plus, they are versatile enough to pair with almost any main dish!
My family couldn’t stop raving about these when I served them at our last game night.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Baby Potatoes: Choose small ones for better crispiness; they’ll cook faster and have a delightful texture.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for drizzling; it enhances flavor and helps achieve that golden crust.
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Garlic Powder: A must-have to elevate the flavor; it adds depth without overpowering the potatoes’ natural taste.
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Fresh Rosemary or Thyme: Choose whichever you prefer; both herbs add aromatic notes that pair wonderfully with potatoes.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; don’t be shy with them—they bring all the flavors together beautifully!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). While waiting for it to heat up, wash your baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, place them in a large pot filled with cold water—this is vital as starting with cold water ensures even cooking.
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat and let those little gems cook until fork-tender—about 15 minutes should do it! You want them tender but not falling apart. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Next up, arrange your cooked potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until it’s about half an inch thick. This step creates more surface area for that glorious crispiness!
Drizzle olive oil generously over each smashed potato. Sprinkle garlic powder, chopped rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper evenly across them. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty here; rub those spices in for maximum flavor!
Now comes the best part—pop those bad boys in your preheated oven! Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy on the edges. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make your neighbors jealous.
Once out of the oven, let them rest for just a couple of minutes before serving; this allows those flavors to settle in beautifully. Serve hot alongside your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish to complement any main course!
Enjoy your crispy smashed potatoes while basking in the glory of your culinary triumph!
You Must Know
- Crispy smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy edges with a fluffy interior
- The aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen is irresistible
- Plus, they make an excellent side dish for any meal, or you can snack on them alone
Perfecting the Cooking Process
The key to crispy smashed potatoes lies in boiling them first until tender, then smashing and roasting at high heat to achieve that golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with toppings like cheese, bacon bits, or fresh herbs. Adding a drizzle of truffle oil takes them to a gourmet level!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 375°F until crisp again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For extra crispiness, ensure your potatoes are thoroughly dried before roasting
- Using a high-quality olive oil enhances flavor significantly
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each potato space to breathe and crisp up beautifully
My first attempt at making crispy smashed potatoes led to a house full of friends praising my culinary skills—talk about a confidence boost!
FAQ
How do I achieve extra crispy edges on my potatoes?
Roast them at 425°F for maximum crispiness, ensuring there’s enough space between each potato.
Can I make crispy smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and refrigerate, then reheat in the oven before serving for best results.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes are perfect due to their texture and flavor profile.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy smashed potatoes are your new go-to comfort food, offering a delightful combination of golden-crisp edges and fluffy centers. This simple yet indulgent dish is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot of cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
- Arrange the cooked potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently smash each potato to about half an inch thick.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle with garlic powder, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato (approximately 70g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
