Have you ever craved a side dish that combines the rich flavor of perfectly roasted potatoes with an irresistible crunch? Crispy smashed potatoes deliver just that! Each bite bursts with buttery goodness and a delightful crunch that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this delectable dish is sure to impress.
Imagine gathering around the table, the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the air as you serve up these golden delights. They’re versatile enough to pair with almost any main course—grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. The anticipation builds as you watch everyone eagerly dig in, their eyes lighting up at the first crispy bite. In just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that brings joy and satisfaction to every meal.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Perfectly Crunchy Texture: The unique smashing technique creates an irresistible surface area that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Flavorful Seasoning: You can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences—experiment with garlic powder, rosemary, or even chili flakes.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a fantastic side dish.
- Great for Meal Prep: These potatoes reheat well in the oven or microwave, making them an excellent option for leftovers or meal prep.
Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Small Potatoes: Choose about 2 pounds of small Yukon Gold or red potatoes for optimal creaminess and flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to add richness while helping achieve that golden crispiness.
- Salt: A generous sprinkle enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes; sea salt is a great choice.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds depth; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Chopped parsley or rosemary provides a burst of freshness; feel free to mix and match your favorites.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) ensuring it’s hot enough for perfect crispness.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place the small potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Drain the boiled potatoes and let them cool slightly. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, use a potato masher or fork to gently smash each potato until it’s about half an inch thick.
Step 4: Season Generously
Drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on top before adding any fresh herbs if desired.
Step 5: Roast Until Golden
Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Transfer the crispy smashed potatoes onto serving plates. Garnish with additional herbs if desired for presentation.
Enjoy these delightful smashed potatoes alongside your favorite dishes!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Select Uniform Sizes: Choose similar-sized potatoes so they cook evenly during boiling.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet prevents sticking while promoting even cooking.
- Add Cheese Optional: For added indulgence, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top during roasting.
Mistakes to avoid
- Not Using the Right Potatoes: Choosing the wrong type of potato can ruin your crispy smashed potatoes. Opt for starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. These potatoes have the perfect texture to achieve that desired crispiness. Waxy potatoes, such as red or new potatoes, tend to retain moisture and won’t create the ideal crunch. Always pick a good quality potato to start your recipe off right.
- Skipping the Boiling Step: Some might think they can skip boiling their potatoes before smashing them, but this is a critical step. Boiling softens the potatoes, allowing them to cook evenly and absorb flavors. If you skip this step, your smashed potatoes may end up dry or unevenly cooked. Take the time to boil them until fork-tender for the best results.
- Not Preheating Your Oven: A common mistake is placing your smashed potatoes in a cold oven. To achieve that perfect crispy exterior, preheat your oven well before baking. The hot air helps create a golden crust while keeping the insides fluffy and tender. Always remember to allow adequate preheating time for consistent cooking results.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: When it comes to baking your crispy smashed potatoes, space matters! Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than roasting, preventing that desirable crunch from forming. Arrange your smashed potatoes in a single layer with enough room for air circulation. This way, you’ll ensure each potato gets maximum exposure to heat and achieves that crispy finish.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your crispy smashed potatoes properly can lead to bland results. Don’t just rely on salt; use herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or fresh rosemary for an extra flavor boost. Season generously before and after baking to enhance their taste and make sure each bite bursts with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Crispy Smashed Potatoes is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled Chicken: The crispiness of the potatoes complements the juicy flavor of grilled chicken, making it a perfect side dish for any barbecue or outdoor gathering.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: For a vegetarian option, serve these crispy delights alongside a colorful vegetable stir-fry. The crunchiness of the potatoes adds texture to the meal.
- Steak: Pairing crispy smashed potatoes with a perfectly seared steak creates a satisfying dinner that balances rich flavors with crunchy textures.
FAQs
What are Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are small, whole potatoes that undergo a unique cooking process. First, they are boiled until tender. Then, they are lightly smashed and roasted in the oven until golden and crispy. This method enhances their flavor and provides a delightful crunch. These potatoes can be seasoned in various ways, including garlic, herbs, or cheese, making them an adaptable side dish for many meals.
How do I achieve maximum crispiness with my Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
To achieve maximum crispiness with your Crispy Smashed Potatoes, ensure that you boil them until just tender but not falling apart. After smashing them, drizzle with olive oil and season generously before roasting at a high temperature. Flipping them halfway through cooking will also help achieve an even crispiness on both sides. Remember to spread them out on the baking sheet to avoid overcrowding.
Can I make Crispy Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes ahead of time. Boil and smash them as directed but do not roast immediately. Store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply spread them on a baking sheet and roast as instructed. This method allows you to enjoy freshly baked crispy potatoes without the hassle on busy days.
What variations can I try with my Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
There are numerous delicious variations you can try with Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Consider adding different herbs such as rosemary or thyme for added flavor. You can also sprinkle cheese like parmesan or cheddar on top during the last few minutes of roasting for an extra savory touch. Additionally, adding spices like paprika or chili powder can give your potatoes a delightful kick.
Conclusion for Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Smashed Potatoes offer an irresistible combination of tender insides and crunchy outsides that elevate any meal. By following simple steps—boiling, smashing, and roasting—you create a dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. With endless seasoning possibilities and perfect pairings like grilled chicken or vegetable stir-fry, these potatoes fit seamlessly into any dining occasion. Whether served at family gatherings or intimate dinners, they never fail to impress guests and family alike!
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a delightful blend of soft, buttery insides and a satisfying crunch that makes them the perfect side dish for any meal. This recipe transforms simple small potatoes into golden, crispy delights through a two-step cooking process: boiling and roasting. Infused with olive oil and seasoned to perfection, these smashed potatoes can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Whether served alongside grilled meats, fresh salads, or hearty casseroles, they promise to elevate your dining experience. With their irresistible texture and flavor, Crispy Smashed Potatoes are bound to become a family favorite that impresses at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds small Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or rosemary)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- On a lined baking sheet, gently smash each potato to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season generously with salt and pepper. Add fresh herbs if desired.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
