When you think about crispy smashed potatoes, your mind might drift to straightforward mains like roasted chicken or grilled steak, but don’t stop there. This dish is surprisingly versatile. Picture a vibrant summer barbecue with friends and family, or perhaps a cozy dinner with your loved ones.
Imagine crispy smashed potatoes served alongside juicy burgers, fresh from the grill. Or pair them with a herb-infused salmon, the spices of the salmon contrasting perfectly with the crispy potatoes.
You could also opt for a garden-fresh salad drenched in zesty vinaigrette—a delightful balance of warmth and crunch. The options are nearly endless, creating a dish that truly elevates any meal.
Crispy smashed potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and texture. This simple yet innovative method of preparing potatoes ensures each bite offers an irresistible crunch followed by a soft, creamy interior. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!
If you’ve ever found yourself rummaging through your pantry, unsure of what to prepare, this recipe has your back. These potatoes check all the boxes: they’re easy to make, allow for personalization, and are always a crowd-pleaser.
What is the Smashed Potatoes Recipe?
Crispy smashed potatoes consist of whole or halved potatoes that are boiled until tender and then flattened before a quick roast in the oven. The result is a crispy exterior, packed with flavor and a soft, fluffy center.
You will also like the following Side Dishes recipes!
Why This Recipe Works
1. Simplicity in Preparation
You don’t need to be a culinary genius to whip up crispy smashed potatoes. They involve a handful of ingredients and a straightforward process. If you can boil water, you can make this dish.
2. Flavor Explosion
The combination of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of salt amplifies the natural taste of the potatoes. The drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds richness, making each bite a delight.
3. Versatile Pairing Options
Whether it’s meat, fish, or veggies, these potatoes adapt to any meal. You can serve them at a casual family dinner or fancy gathering without breaking a sweat. They cater to both simple and elaborate cuisines.
4. Texture that Excites
Smashed potatoes offer that coveted contrast: a crispy shell with a tender, creamy interior. This blend of textures is what keeps eaters coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Gathering ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create these crispy smashed potatoes:
- 1–1.2 kg / 2–2.4 lbs medium potatoes (about 6–8), peeled and quartered if large
- 700g / 1.4 lbs baby potatoes (about 12–14), whole or halved depending on size
- ¾ tsp fine sea salt (for seasoning)
- 1 tbsp coarse salt (for boiling water)
- 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter, gently melted
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
How To Make This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the process! This is where the magic happens.
Step 1: Choose Your Potatoes
Whether you opt for medium potatoes or baby potatoes, they should be firm and free from blemishes. Their size will dictate the overall cooking time—just keep that in mind!
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Fill a large pot with water, adding a tablespoon of coarse salt. Bring it to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. You want them soft enough to smash, but not so soft that they fall apart.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While your potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). A hot oven means crispy potatoes. If you want to add a little flair, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 4: Smash the Potatoes
Once boiled, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a minute. Using the bottom of a sturdy cup or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it flattens to about half an inch thick. Be careful not to obliterate them; you want that delightful texture!
Step 5: Season the Potatoes
Place the smashed potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. In a bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this seasoned mixture generously over each potato. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Now comes one of the most crucial parts. Roast the potatoes in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to flip them halfway through to ensure even crispiness. Watch them like a hawk; nobody likes burnt potatoes!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once they’re golden and crisp, serve your crispy smashed potatoes hot. Enjoy with friends, family, or even all by yourself. I won’t tell!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some additional insights to help you nail this recipe:
- Choose the Right Potato: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape better, while starchy potatoes like Russets yield a fluffier interior.
- Don’t Skip the Soaking: If you have extra time, soaking the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes can help remove excess starch, leading to crispier results.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to mix and match spices like Italian seasoning, onion powder, or even chili flakes for a little kick.
- Keep Them Hot: If you’re making these for a gathering, keep the potatoes warm in the oven on a very low setting until it’s time to serve.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each potato enough space to breathe on the baking sheet. This ensures they don’t steam but rather crisp up beautifully.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition per serving (assuming six servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
Note that nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities used.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Leftover crispy smashed potatoes, if you have any (which is debatable), can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain that crispy texture. Microwaving is convenient but know that the crunchiness will be compromised.
What Sides Would Compliment Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
Crispy smashed potatoes can amplify any meal. Here are a few sides to consider:
1. Grilled Chicken Thighs
Juicy, succulent chicken thighs marinated in herbs or barbecue sauce pair perfectly with the crunchy potatoes. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a delightful experience.
2. Roasted Asparagus
This green veggie adds a fresh, vibrant touch to your plate. Drizzle with lemon juice for an extra zing. The contrast between the hot, crispy potatoes and the tender asparagus is quite the dynamic duo.
3. Classic Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons make for a refreshing side. The richness of the salad balances the potatoes’ texture, making every mouthful a pleasure.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Sometimes you don’t have every ingredient at hand. Here are some swaps that’ll work just as well:
1. Different Types of Potatoes
If you don’t have baby potatoes or medium ones, sweet potatoes can work too. They cook similarly and add a nice sweetness to your dish.
2. Olive Oil Swap
Feel free to substitute olive oil with avocado oil or melted coconut oil, which add different flavors but maintain healthy fat content.
3. Seasoning Variations
If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh minced garlic will do just fine. Chop it up fine and toss it in. If paprika isn’t available, try cayenne pepper for a distinct kick.
4. Vegan Option
For a plant-based version, substitute butter with vegan butter or omit it entirely. The olive oil alone will still lend rich flavor.
Smashed Potatoes
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 –1.2 kg / 2–2.4 lbs medium potatoes about 6–8, peeled and quartered if large
- 700 g / 1.4 lbs baby potatoes about 12–14, whole or halved depending on size
- ¾ tsp fine sea salt for seasoning
- 1 tbsp coarse salt for boiling water
- 30 g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter gently melted
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Step 1: Choose Your Potatoes
- Whether you opt for medium potatoes or baby potatoes, they should be firm and free from blemishes. Their size will dictate the overall cooking time—just keep that in mind!
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
- Fill a large pot with water, adding a tablespoon of coarse salt. Bring it to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. You want them soft enough to smash, but not so soft that they fall apart.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- While your potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). A hot oven means crispy potatoes. If you want to add a little flair, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 4: Smash the Potatoes
- Once boiled, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a minute. Using the bottom of a sturdy cup or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it flattens to about half an inch thick. Be careful not to obliterate them; you want that delightful texture!
Step 5: Season the Potatoes
- Place the smashed potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. In a bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this seasoned mixture generously over each potato. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Now comes one of the most crucial parts. Roast the potatoes in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to flip them halfway through to ensure even crispiness. Watch them like a hawk; nobody likes burnt potatoes!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once they’re golden and crisp, serve your crispy smashed potatoes hot. Enjoy with friends, family, or even all by yourself. I won’t tell!
Notes
- Choose the Right Potato: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape better, while starchy potatoes like Russets yield a fluffier interior.
- Don’t Skip the Soaking: If you have extra time, soaking the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes can help remove excess starch, leading to crispier results.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to mix and match spices like Italian seasoning, onion powder, or even chili flakes for a little kick.
- Keep Them Hot: If you’re making these for a gathering, keep the potatoes warm in the oven on a very low setting until it’s time to serve.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each potato enough space to breathe on the baking sheet. This ensures they don’t steam but rather crisp up beautifully.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prep these potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! You can boil and smash the potatoes a day ahead. Store them in the fridge, then finish the roasting step just before serving.
2. Can I freeze smashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Make sure they’re fully cooled then place them in a freezer bag. Bake them from frozen; just add about 10 minutes to the cooking time.
3. How do I make them crispy without an oven?
You can use an air fryer instead! Cook for about 15-20 minutes at 200°C (392°F), flipping them halfway through.
4. What about adding cheese?
Top the potatoes with cheese a few minutes before they’re done roasting. Cheddar, parmesan, or feta would work wonders.
5. Are there any health benefits?
Potatoes are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and potassium. They’re also filling, making them great for satisfying hunger.
6. Can they be made spicy?
For a spicy twist, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle your favorite hot sauce on them after roasting!
Conclusion
Crispy smashed potatoes have a special place in any kitchen. This recipe serves up satisfaction with minimal stress. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying dinner at home, these potatoes will shine on your table.
As you roll up your sleeves and embark on this culinary adventure, remember: experimentation is key. Taste, tweak, and make it your own. After all, there’s nothing quite like a dish that brings everyone together, garnished with love and laughter. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!