Smashed potatoes are a fun twist on regular mashed potatoes. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, bringing happiness to any meal. Add butter and herbs for extra flavor!
Who knew smashing could make food so tasty? I love preparing these as a side dish, and they always get a big thumbs-up at my dinner table. It’s hard to eat just one! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes are the best choices due to their creamy texture. If you can’t find them, try using small white potatoes or fingerling potatoes instead. They’ll give a nice bite too!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with crisping. You can swap it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different taste. Keep in mind that each has its unique flavor profile.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These spices really enhance the flavor. If you don’t have them, consider using fresh minced garlic and onion instead. Start with one clove of garlic and 1/4 of a small onion, finely chopped.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are my favorites for garnishing. If you need a substitution, parsley or chives can work well too, adding a fresh touch without overpowering.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a delicious cheesy layer. You can also use nutritional yeast if you want a dairy-free option while still getting a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Achieve Crispy, Smashed Potatoes?
Getting those deliciously crispy edges is all about the preparation and baking process. Here are my tips to make sure your smashed potatoes turn out perfectly:
- **Boiling:** Cook the potatoes until fork-tender but not mushy. This will allow them to hold shape during smashing.
- **Flat and Spaced:** When smashing the potatoes, aim for about 1/2 inch thickness. This ensures they roast evenly. Don’t overcrowd them on the baking sheet. Give them space to breathe!
- **Oil Mixture:** Brush on the oil and butter mixture generously; it’s key to crispy results. Flip them halfway through baking to get both sides evenly crispy.
- **Baking Temperature:** Keep your oven temperature high (450°F) to achieve that wonderful crispiness. Preheating the oven is essential!
With these tips, you’re all set to enjoy some crispy smashed potatoes that are full of flavor!
How to Make Delicious Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
For the Seasoning:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or rosemary
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smashed potatoes recipe will take you about 40-50 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes boiling and preparing the potatoes, plus another 20-25 minutes baking them to crispy perfection. It’s a perfect side dish that’s both quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is key to getting those potatoes nice and crispy!
2. Boil the Potatoes:
Take your baby potatoes and wash them thoroughly. Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Don’t forget to add a generous pinch of salt for flavor! Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
3. Flatten the Potatoes:
Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes. When they’re cool enough to handle, gently flatten each potato by pressing down with a fork or the bottom of a glass. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick for that perfect smash!
4. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture is what will make your potatoes irresistible! Brush this mixture generously over each smashed potato, making sure they’re well-coated.
5. Bake the Potatoes:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your smashed potatoes on it. Make sure to leave some space between each one. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
6. Optional Cheese Topping:
If you’re a fan of cheese, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the smashed potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking for a deliciously cheesy twist!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the potatoes are out of the oven, garnish them with fresh thyme or rosemary for a touch of flavor and color. Serve them hot and enjoy your tasty smashed potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and red potatoes work best for their creamy texture, you can also use other waxy potatoes like fingerling or new potatoes. Just make sure they are similar in size so they cook evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you’re looking to cut back on calories, try reducing the amount of butter or using a heart-healthy oil like avocado oil instead of olive oil. You can also skip the cheese or add a light sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the fat.
Can I Prepare the Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes in advance! After boiling and smashing them, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, brush on the oil mixture and bake directly from the fridge; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How to Store Leftover Smashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture, or microwave them for a quicker option. They can lose some crunch in the microwave, though!
