Smashed potatoes are the perfect blend of crispy and creamy goodness, promising a delightful explosion of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them solo, these little gems shine on any dinner table.
Picture this: a cozy family gathering, laughter filling the air, and the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the kitchen. Suddenly, someone brings out a platter of golden-brown smashed potatoes, and it’s game over for any diet plans. Trust me; these spuds will have everyone begging for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These smashed potatoes are incredibly easy to make, ensuring you can whip them up in no time
- Their flavor is a delightful mix of buttery richness and herbaceous zest
- The visual appeal is stunning with their crispy edges and fluffy interiors, making them perfect for any occasion
- Versatile enough to pair with almost any main dish, they’ll become your go-to side!
I still remember the first time I made smashed potatoes for my family; the kids went wild, declaring them “the best potatoes ever.” Watching their faces light up was priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Small Potatoes: I prefer using baby Yukon Golds for their buttery flavor and smooth texture when smashed.
-
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it adds richness and depth to the flavor.
-
Fresh Garlic: Opt for fresh cloves over powdered; nothing beats that aromatic kick in your potatoes!
-
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme work wonders here; they elevate the taste and aroma significantly.
-
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip this step if you want flavor-packed potatoes!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Boil the Potatoes: Begin by placing your small potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Drain and Cool: Once cooked, drain the potatoes using a colander and let them cool slightly. You want to handle them without burning your fingers—ouch!
Smashed Goodness Time!: Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact. Think rustic charm rather than perfection.
Add Flavor Galore!: Drizzle olive oil generously over each potato, followed by minced garlic and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. The aroma should be divine at this point.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Season & Serve!: After baking, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or just as they are—delicious!
Now you have an irresistible plate of smashed potatoes ready to impress! Enjoy every delectable bite.
You Must Know
- Smashed potatoes are not just delicious; they’re an upgrade to your typical spuds
- Their crispy edges and fluffy interiors create a delightful contrast that makes everyone swoon at the dinner table
- Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare and customize!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, then gently smash them before roasting for crispy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add garlic, fresh herbs, or cheese to elevate the flavor profile of your smashed potatoes.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for crispy results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor and creamy texture
- Avoid overcooking them; you want fluffy, not mushy
- Don’t skip the roasting step for maximum crispiness!
Cooking smashed potatoes always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingled with delicious aromas. My cousin once claimed these were better than his mom’s mashed potatoes—a compliment that made my heart swell!
FAQ
What type of potatoes are best for smashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes provide great flavor and texture for smashed potatoes.
Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and reheat them just before serving.
How can I make smashed potatoes vegan?
Simply use olive oil instead of butter for a delicious vegan-friendly option.
Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Smashed potatoes are a delightful fusion of crispy and creamy textures, guaranteed to elevate any meal. These golden-brown beauties are perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. With a buttery flavor enhanced by fresh garlic and herbs, they’re sure to impress your guests. Easy to prepare and customizable, smashed potatoes quickly become a favorite side dish that complements almost any main course.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby Yukon Gold potatoes
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Gently smash each potato using a potato masher or glass bottom until flattened.
- Drizzle olive oil over each potato, sprinkle with minced garlic and herbs.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding cheese or other herbs like parsley or oregano. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.