Looking for a side dish that’s simple to make, irresistibly crispy, and downright delicious? Say hello to crispy smashed potatoes! These golden, crunchy little wonders are the ultimate combination of fluffy potato centers and perfectly crisp, crackly edges. They’re versatile, crowd-pleasing, and easy enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve at your next gathering.
Whether you’re dunking them in your favorite dip or pairing them with a hearty main like roast chicken or steak, these smashed potatoes are about to become a regular on your menu. Trust me, you’ll have a hard time sharing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to turn humble potatoes into crispy bliss:
- 1 ½ lbs small potatoes (Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme (or your favorite herb)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., sour cream, aioli, or ketchup)
With such a simple ingredient list, the magic really happens in the method.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Follow these steps and get ready to enjoy the crispiest, most addictive smashed potatoes:
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing your potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold, salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly so you can handle them safely.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the potatoes are cooling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 3: Smash Those Spuds
Now for the fun part! Using the bottom of a sturdy glass, a potato masher, or even a fork, gently press down on each potato to "smash" it. Aim for about ½-inch thickness – you want them to spread out a bit but not fall apart.
Step 4: Season Generously
Place the smashed potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil (or melted butter), making sure each potato is well-coated. Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Rub the seasoning in to ensure every potato gets love.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Pop the tray into the oven and roast the potatoes for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are beautifully golden and irresistibly crispy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the potatoes with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear!
Tips for Perfect Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Choose the right potatoes. Small, waxy potatoes like Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture.
Don’t skimp on the oil. A generous drizzle ensures maximum crispiness.
Space them out. Overcrowding the tray will make them steam rather than roast. Give them room to crisp up.
Variations and tweaks. Love spice? Add a dash of paprika or chili powder. Craving cheesy goodness? Sprinkle grated Parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy smashed potatoes are wonderfully versatile. Serve them as a side with grilled chicken, juicy steak, or even your favorite plant-based main. They’re also fantastic as party appetizers with a variety of dips like ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.
Feeling indulgent? Turn them into a loaded potato platter by adding shredded cheese, bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream. They also pair beautifully with a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Final Thoughts
Crispy smashed potatoes prove that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. Perfectly golden and irresistibly crunchy, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds). Whether for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or Friday nights in, this recipe is a must-try. Give them a go and prepare to make room in your recipe rotation for this new favorite!
Happy cooking!
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