Smashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, these smashed potatoes are just the ticket! Imagine tender baby potatoes, boiled to perfection, then smashed flat and roasted until they’re gloriously crispy. Each bite bursts with flavor from the garlic and herb butter—a perfect side for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, where smiles abound every time I serve them.

The best part? They’re simple to make yet feel special enough for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or bringing a dish to share at a potluck, these smashed potatoes will surely steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can whip up these delicious potatoes in under an hour!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the crispy edges and fluffy centers—everyone will want seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them earlier in the day; they reheat beautifully if you need to get dinner on the table fast.
• Delicious Flavor: The garlic and herb butter takes these potatoes over the top, making them irresistible.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with nearly any main course—from grilled chicken to roasted veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! These smashed potatoes use simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look:

For the Potatoes

• 1 pound baby potatoes (such as red potatoes or Yukon Gold)
• Cooking spray

For the Garlic Herb Butter

• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Variations

One of the things I love about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with flavors based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy most.

• Add Some Heat: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the potatoes before roasting for a spicy kick.
• Herb Swap: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy Twist: Try adding crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese instead of parmesan for extra cheesy goodness.
• Vegan Version: Swap out the butter for olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free treat.

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Adding salt enhances the flavor of the potatoes as they cook. Once boiling, toss in your baby potatoes and let them simmer away for about 18-22 minutes until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. This step ensures that they will smash easily later on!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While your potatoes are cooking, go ahead and preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. A hot oven is key to getting those crispy edges we all love!

Step 3: Prepare Your Pan

Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and allows those delicious crispy bits to form without any fuss.

Step 4: Smash Those Potatoes!

After draining the cooked potatoes, spread them out on your prepared sheet pan in a single layer. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently flatten each potato. Don’t worry about making them perfect—some irregularity adds charm!

Step 5: Make Your Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it well so all those flavors meld together beautifully. Drizzling this rich mixture over each potato elevates their taste immensely!

Step 6: Add Cheese & Roast

Now it’s time for some cheesy goodness! Sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese over each smashed potato before popping them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for that lovely pop of color. Serve these amazing smashed potatoes alongside your favorite entrees or enjoy them all on their own—they are simply divine!

Pro Tips for Making Smashed Potatoes

Getting the perfect smashed potatoes is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines!

• Choose the right potatoes: Baby potatoes like red or Yukon Gold are ideal for smashing due to their creamy texture and ability to hold shape after boiling.

• Don’t skip the boiling step: Boiling the potatoes until tender is crucial; it ensures they are fluffy inside, making for a delightful contrast when roasted.

• Use enough butter: A generous drizzle of garlic and herb butter not only enhances flavor but also contributes to that sought-after crispy exterior when baked.

• Preheat your oven adequately: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before roasting. This helps achieve that golden brown color and crispy texture on the outside.

• Serve immediately: Smashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and crispy. They can lose their crunch if left to sit too long!

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Serving smashed potatoes can be as creative as you like! They make an excellent side dish and can be presented in various ways to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the butter.
• Crumbled feta cheese: For a tangy twist, sprinkle crumbled feta over the top just before serving. It adds creaminess that pairs beautifully with the crispy potatoes.
• Lemon zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition, creating a vibrant plate.
• Mixed greens salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the smashed potatoes, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted chicken thighs: Juicy, seasoned chicken thighs are a hearty main dish that pairs perfectly with these flavorful potatoes.
• Creamy coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture alongside smashed potatoes, while its creamy dressing complements the garlic butter flavor.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your smashed potatoes will shine on any dinner table! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and presentations—you can’t go wrong with this delicious side dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

These smashed potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy their crispy goodness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the smashed potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the potatoes completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
• Arrange the frozen or refrigerated smashed potatoes on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making smashed potatoes!

What are smashed potatoes?

Smashed potatoes are baby potatoes that are boiled until tender, then flattened and roasted with garlic butter and herbs until crispy. They offer a delightful twist on traditional mashed or baked potatoes.

Can I make smashed potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! Smashed potatoes are great for meal prep. You can prepare them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with smashed potatoes?

Smashed potatoes pair well with various dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled vegetables, roasted chicken substitutes, or your favorite plant-based protein for a lovely meal.

How do I make my smashed potatoes crispy?

To ensure your smashed potatoes turn out crispy, make sure they are well-drained after boiling and use enough melted butter before roasting. A hot oven also helps achieve that delicious crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful smashed potatoes! They’re not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying with their crispy edges and buttery flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, they’re sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me!

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