Smashed potatoes are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, combining the comforting creaminess of the classic dish with a rustic, crispy texture that elevates any meal. This recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect side dish for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The preparation involves boiling small potatoes until tender, then smashing them lightly and roasting them to create a crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior. This unique cooking method allows the potatoes to soak up flavors from seasonings and toppings, resulting in a dish that’s both savory and comforting. With just a few ingredients, you can achieve a sophisticated yet approachable side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even a hearty salad. Whether you are entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy family meal, smashed potatoes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are numerous reasons why smashed potatoes will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. First and foremost, the taste is truly remarkable. The crispy edges provide a satisfying crunch, while the fluffy interior offers a comforting creaminess that appeals to both children and adults alike. The ability to infuse them with flavors from herbs, garlic, and cheese means you can tailor them to suit any palate or occasion.

Another appealing aspect of this recipe is the ease of preparation. Unlike traditional mashed potatoes, which can require extensive whipping and mixing, smashed potatoes are straightforward. The cooking process involves minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy a moment of relaxation while they roast in the oven.

Visually, smashed potatoes are a feast for the eyes. Their rustic charm, with uneven edges and a golden-brown hue, adds a touch of elegance to any plate. When garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese, they become a centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in. This combination of taste, ease, and aesthetic appeal makes smashed potatoes a standout recipe that deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

To prepare these scrumptious smashed potatoes, you will need the following ingredients, which are easily accessible and can be adjusted to suit your flavor preferences:

2 pounds of small to medium-sized potatoes: Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamy texture. These varieties hold their shape well during cooking and provide a lovely, buttery flavor.
1/4 cup of olive oil: This will be used to roast the potatoes, imparting a rich flavor and helping to achieve that desired crispiness. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best taste.
4 cloves of garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced or smashed, will enhance the flavor profile significantly. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to the potatoes.
Salt: Kosher or sea salt is ideal for seasoning. It helps to bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides a hint of spice and complements the other flavors perfectly.
Fresh herbs: Optional, but highly recommended. Chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley can be added for an aromatic touch.
Grated cheese: Optional, but for those who love cheesy smashed potatoes, consider adding grated Parmesan or aged cheddar just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

These ingredients come together beautifully, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that make smashed potatoes a must-try recipe. You can also experiment with the quantities based on your taste preferences and the number of servings you need.

How To Make Smashed Potatoes?

Creating the perfect smashed potatoes is an enjoyable process that involves several simple steps. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your potatoes turn out irresistibly delicious:

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that crispy exterior.
Next, wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin adds flavor and texture.
Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water, ensuring there is enough water to submerge the potatoes completely. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork, but they should not be falling apart.
Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them rest for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This step is crucial for achieving crispiness during roasting.
On a large baking sheet, drizzle about half of the olive oil (2 tablespoons) and spread it evenly across the surface. This will help the potatoes crisp up nicely.
Carefully transfer the drained potatoes to the baking sheet. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher, gently smash each potato to flatten it slightly. Aim for a thickness of about half an inch; you want them to remain intact but with a good surface area for crisping.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and black pepper evenly across the surface. If you’re using fresh herbs, now is the time to add them as well.
Using a spoon or your hands, gently toss the potatoes on the baking sheet to ensure they are well coated with the oil and seasonings.
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Once roasted, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle grated cheese over the hot potatoes just before serving, allowing it to melt slightly.
Serve the smashed potatoes warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!

With these detailed instructions, you can confidently create a batch of smashed potatoes that will impress family and friends alike. The combination of boiling and roasting ensures a delightful texture that is both crispy and fluffy, making every bite a pleasure.

Tips For Variations:

One of the greatest aspects of smashed potatoes is their versatility. You can customize them in numerous ways to suit your taste preferences or to use up ingredients you have on hand. Here are some creative ideas for variations:

Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to infuse the potatoes with unique flavors. Consider using dill, chives, or even basil for a fresh twist. You can add these herbs to the oil before drizzling it over the potatoes or mix them into the smashed potatoes before roasting.
Creamy Additions: For a richer flavor, mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the smashed potatoes before roasting. This will give them an extra creamy texture and enhance their taste.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the oil mixture. This will give your smashed potatoes a delightful spicy edge that pairs well with many main dishes.
Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses to elevate your smashed potatoes. Try crumbled feta for a tangy flavor or shredded mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture. Mixing in cheese before roasting can create a wonderfully cheesy dish.
Seasoning Blends: Play around with various seasoning blends to create a unique flavor profile. Consider using garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. These seasonings can add depth and complexity to your dish.
Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate cooked vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes into the smashed potatoes before roasting. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the nutritional value of the dish.
Budget-Friendly Options: If you’re looking to cut costs, consider using less expensive potatoes or even substituting with cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative. Cauliflower can be boiled and smashed in a similar way, offering a different but equally satisfying texture.

These variations allow you to explore new flavors and textures while keeping the essence of smashed potatoes intact. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

Serving Suggestions:

With Roasted Meats: Smashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, beef, or lamb. Their crispy edges and fluffy interiors complement the richness of roasted meats beautifully.
As a Base for Sauces: Serve smashed potatoes as a base for flavorful sauces, such as mushroom gravy or a rich pan sauce. The potatoes will soak up the sauce, enhancing every bite.
With Grilled Vegetables: For a lighter option, serve smashed potatoes alongside a medley of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. The combination of flavors will create a colorful and satisfying meal.
In a Salad: Transform leftover smashed potatoes into a hearty salad. Toss them with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a delightful twist on a traditional salad.
As a Snack: Serve smashed potatoes as a fun appetizer or snack. Top them with a dollop of sour cream and fresh chives for a classic flavor combination that’s sure to impress guests.
With a Fried Egg: For a cozy breakfast or brunch option, serve smashed potatoes topped with a perfectly fried egg. The runny yolk adds richness and pairs beautifully with the crispy potatoes.

These serving suggestions highlight the versatility of smashed potatoes and showcase their ability to complement a variety of dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, smashed potatoes are sure to impress.

FAQ:

Can I prepare smashed potatoes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare smashed potatoes in advance. Boil and smash the potatoes, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before roasting. When ready to serve, simply drizzle with oil and seasonings, then roast as instructed.

What type of potatoes are best for smashing?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal for smashed potatoes. They hold their shape well and have a creamy texture that enhances the dish’s overall flavor.

Can I freeze smashed potatoes?

While it’s possible to freeze smashed potatoes, they may lose some texture upon reheating. If you choose to freeze them, ensure they are well-wrapped and consume them within a month for the best quality.

How can I make my smashed potatoes even crispier?

To achieve extra crispiness, ensure the potatoes are well-drained after boiling, and don’t overcrowd them on the baking sheet. You can also broil them for a few minutes at the end of cooking for a golden-brown finish.

What can I serve with smashed potatoes?

Smashed potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and even fried eggs. They can also be topped with sauces or served as part of a salad for a hearty meal.

Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, combining creaminess with a crispy texture.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Side

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

Large Pot
Baking Sheet
Colander
Potato Masher
Sturdy Glass

Ingredients

Potatoes

2 pounds small to medium-sized potatoes Yukon Gold or red potatoes recommended for creaminess.

Oil

1/4 cup olive oil Extra virgin olive oil recommended.

Garlic

4 cloves garlic Minced or smashed for flavor enhancement.

Seasoning

to taste salt Kosher or sea salt recommended.
to taste black pepper Freshly ground for best flavor.

Herbs

optional fresh herbs Chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley recommended.

Cheese

to taste grated cheese Parmesan or aged cheddar recommended.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water.
Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and let them rest for a few minutes.
Drizzle half of the olive oil on a baking sheet.
Transfer the potatoes to the baking sheet and gently smash each potato.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
Toss the potatoes to coat them evenly with oil and seasonings.
Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and sprinkle with cheese if desired.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.