Easy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Smashed potatoes
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Smashed potatoes are a twist on the classic mashed potatoes but with a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, creamy interior.

They’re the perfect side dish for any meal and so easy to make! If you’re looking to step up your potato game, this recipe will definitely impress your friends and family.

It’s simple but packs a ton of flavor, making it an ideal option for a quick dinner or a special holiday gathering.

What makes smashed potatoes so great is how they combine the best of both worlds: the fluffiness of mashed potatoes and the crunchy goodness of roasted ones.

When you bake the potatoes, the edges become wonderfully crispy while the insides remain soft and pillowy. Plus, you can flavor them however you like, from herbs to cheese, making them incredibly versatile.

If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s satisfying and simple, smashed potatoes are the way to go. This is a recipe that’s perfect for cozy nights in or to impress at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Smashed potatoes are so fun to make, and they taste amazing! They have a crispy crust that gives a satisfying crunch with every bite, but the inside remains smooth and creamy.
  • You’ll love how easy it is to customize the flavor, too. Whether you like garlic, cheese, or a sprinkle of herbs, there’s an option for everyone.
  • What’s even better is how quickly they cook. You can prep them in no time and pop them in the oven to bake while you finish up the rest of your meal.
  • They’re the perfect side dish that everyone will rave about! And best of all, they’re super easy to make, even for beginners in the kitchen.

Ingredient List

For the Potatoes:

  • 1 ½ pounds of small baby potatoes (about 10-12)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Toppings (Optional):

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Feel free to play around with these ingredients! You can add different herbs, spices, or even bacon bits to make this dish your own. Now, let’s move on to the fun part—making these delicious smashed potatoes!

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Kitchen Tools Needed

To make these delicious smashed potatoes, you’ll need a few simple kitchen tools:

  • Large pot for boiling the potatoes
  • Baking sheet for roasting the potatoes in the oven
  • Fork or potato masher for smashing the potatoes
  • Knife and cutting board for chopping garlic (if using)
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy clean-up (optional)
  • Large spoon for spreading oil and seasonings

Cooking Instructions

1 Boil the Potatoes:

  • Start by placing the baby potatoes in a large pot.
  • Fill it with water until the potatoes are fully submerged.
  • Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender (you should be able to easily poke a fork through the potatoes).

2 Preheat the Oven:

  • While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleaning up easier.

3 Smash the Potatoes:

  • Once the potatoes are cooked and drained, transfer them to the baking sheet.
  • Use a fork or potato masher to gently smash each potato down to about half its original size.
  • You want them to stay in one piece but with some cracks for extra crispiness.

4 Season and Roast:

  • Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  • If you’re using garlic, minced garlic, butter, or any optional toppings, add those now.
  • Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.

5 Serve and Enjoy:

  • Once they’re crispy and golden, remove them from the oven.
  • Sprinkle chopped parsley or your favorite herbs on top, and if desired, top with shredded cheese.
  • Serve hot as a side dish and enjoy!

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smashed potatoes 1

Tips and Tricks for Success

  1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, are perfect for smashing. They’re small and have a creamy texture that holds up well when roasted.
  2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the potatoes enough space on the baking sheet so that they crisp up evenly. If you cram too many potatoes together, they’ll steam instead of roast.
  3. Get Creative with Toppings: Try adding different seasonings and toppings to make the dish your own. You can go for a cheesy version with cheddar or parmesan, or add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory twist.
  4. Make It Extra Crispy: For extra crispiness, you can broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
  5. Serve with Dips: If you’re serving this as an appetizer or side dish, consider pairing it with a creamy dip like sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  1. Potatoes: While baby potatoes work best, you can use other types of potatoes like russets or fingerlings. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may yield slightly different textures when mashed and roasted.
  2. Olive Oil: You can substitute olive oil with melted butter or vegetable oil if you prefer a different flavor. Coconut oil is also an option for a more unique taste.
  3. Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Try rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic twist. Smoked paprika gives the potatoes a smoky flavor, but regular paprika works just fine too.
  4. Toppings: Instead of cheddar cheese, you can use mozzarella, Parmesan, or crumbled feta for a different cheesy finish. For a dairy-free version, try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  5. Garlic: If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can leave it out, or use garlic powder as a milder alternative.
  6. Add-ins: For added protein, try topping the smashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits, sautéed onions, or even grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.

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Serving Suggestions

Smashed potatoes make a fantastic side dish to a variety of main courses. Here are some serving ideas:

  • With Meat: Serve alongside roasted chicken, steak, or pork chops for a complete meal.
  • With Vegetables: Pair the potatoes with a fresh vegetable salad or roasted veggies like asparagus, carrots, or broccoli.
  • For a Comfort Meal: Smashed potatoes are great with hearty dishes like beef stew or a creamy chicken casserole.
  • As a Snack: These potatoes can also be served as an appetizer or snack, especially with a dipping sauce like ranch, sour cream, or a spicy aioli.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage:

  • Let the smashed potatoes cool down to room temperature before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing:

  • You can freeze the smashed potatoes if you want to make them in advance. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
crispy smashed potatoes

Reheating:

  • For the best texture, reheat your smashed potatoes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. If they are frozen, you can reheat them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispiness. For the crispiest result, consider popping them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after microwaving.

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FAQ

1. Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe? Yes, you can use larger potatoes like russets, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Boil them longer (about 20-30 minutes) until they are fork-tender. You may also want to cut them into smaller pieces before smashing them.

2. Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the potatoes ahead of time by boiling and smashing them, then storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast them. Just add the oil and seasonings before baking.

3. How do I make the potatoes extra crispy? To achieve extra crispiness, make sure to space the potatoes out on the baking sheet and don’t overcrowd them. You can also broil the potatoes for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking to get an extra crispy finish.

4. Can I make this dish vegan? Yes! Simply substitute the butter for vegan butter or olive oil, and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The potatoes are naturally vegan as long as you stick to plant-based ingredients.

5. Can I add cheese to the smashed potatoes? Absolutely! You can top your smashed potatoes with shredded cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan, or mix the cheese into the potatoes before roasting them for an even melt.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

Smashed potatoes

Easy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

What makes smashed potatoes so great is how they combine the best of both worlds: the fluffiness of mashed potatoes and the crunchy goodness of roasted ones. When you bake them, the edges become wonderfully crispy while the insides remain soft and pillowy.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking Sheet
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Knife and Cutting Board
  • Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil optional
  • Large spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Potatoes:

  • 1 ½ pounds of small baby potatoes about 10-12
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Toppings (Optional):

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional

Instructions
 

Boil the Potatoes:

  • Start by placing the baby potatoes in a large pot.
  • Fill it with water until the potatoes are fully submerged.
  • Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender (you should be able to easily poke a fork through the potatoes).

Preheat the Oven:

  • While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleaning up easier.

Smash the Potatoes:

  • Once the potatoes are cooked and drained, transfer them to the baking sheet.
  • Use a fork or potato masher to gently smash each potato down to about half its original size.
  • You want them to stay in one piece but with some cracks for extra crispiness.

Season and Roast:

  • Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  • If you’re using powder garlic, minced garlic, butter, or any optional toppings, add those now.
  • Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Once they’re crispy and golden, remove them from the oven.
  • Sprinkle chopped parsley or your favorite herbs on top, and if desired, top with shredded cheese.
  • Serve hot as a side dish and enjoy!

Notes

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180-220
  • Carbohydrates: 35-40g
  • Protein: 3-4g
  • Fat: 5-8g
    • Saturated Fat: 0.5-1g (if using olive oil)
  • Fiber: 3-4g
  • Sugar: 1-2g
  • Sodium: 400-500mg (depending on the salt used)
  • Potassium: 600-700mg
(These values are approximate and based on the ingredients provided without optional toppings like cheese or butter. For more accurate nutritional data, consider checking specific ingredient labels.)
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!
 
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword potato recipes, smashed potatoes

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