Smashed potatoes are like the fun-loving cousin of the traditional mashed variety, bursting with personality, flavor, and a delightful texture that invites you to dig in. Imagine crispy edges giving way to fluffy insides, all lovingly seasoned and drizzled with olive oil. Every bite is an irresistible combination of crunch and creaminess that will have your taste buds doing a little happy dance.
Growing up, smashed potatoes were the star at family gatherings. Picture my grandmother in her apron, juggling pots and pans, sharing stories while we eagerly awaited these golden beauties. Whether it was a Sunday dinner or a holiday feast, they always brought everyone together, creating memories that linger long after the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Smashed potatoes are simple to prepare, making them perfect for any weeknight dinner
- Their irresistible flavor profile combines crispy, buttery goodness that pleases everyone
- Visually stunning, they bring a rustic charm to your table with their unique shape
- These versatile potatoes pair excellently with various proteins or can be enjoyed solo as a tasty snack
I still remember the time I tried to impress my friends with my cooking skills by making smashed potatoes for a gathering; let’s just say they were devoured in minutes.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Yukon Gold Potatoes: These have creamy flesh that’s perfect for smashing; their buttery flavor elevates every bite.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste and health benefits; it adds depth without overwhelming the dish.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic richness; roasting them enhances their sweetness and mellows out the flavor.
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Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary): Fresh herbs add an aromatic touch; they brighten up the dish and make it feel gourmet.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; season generously but adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil Those Potatoes: Begin by washing 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Prep the Garlic: While the potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel 4 cloves of garlic and place them on a baking sheet with a drizzle of olive oil. Roast for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
Slam Those Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them sit for a few minutes to dry out slightly. Transfer them to a greased baking sheet and gently smash each potato with a fork or potato masher until flattened but still intact.
Add Flavor Explosion: Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes while they’re still warm. Sprinkle roasted garlic cloves on top followed by fresh herbs, salt, and pepper to taste.
Bake Until Perfectly Crispy: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown on the edges. Keep an eye on them so they don’t get too carried away!
Savor every moment as those tantalizing aromas fill your kitchen. The joy of serving smashed potatoes is not just in their crispiness but also in how they can transform any meal into something special. So gather around the table, share some laughter, and enjoy these delicious bites that bring everyone together!
You Must Know
- Smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy edges with creamy centers
- They are perfect for any meal and a great way to use leftover potatoes
- Plus, their playful presentation makes them a hit at dinner parties and gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling potatoes until tender, then drain and let them steam dry. Smash them gently before roasting for that ideal crispy texture on the outside while keeping them fluffy inside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with toppings like cheese, herbs, or bacon bits. Swapping in sweet potatoes creates a delicious twist, adding natural sweetness and vibrant color to your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warm and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect texture, avoid over-boiling your potatoes; they should be tender but not falling apart
- Use a flat surface to smash them evenly for uniform cooking, ensuring every bite is deliciously crispy
- Add garlic or herbs for an extra flavor boost!
Cooking smashed potatoes reminds me of family dinners where laughter echoed as we fought over the last crispy piece. Sharing these moments makes cooking even more special.
FAQ
What type of potatoes are best for smashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best due to their buttery flavor and creamy texture.
Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them earlier; just reheat in the oven before serving.
Is there a vegan option for smashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of traditional butter for vegan smashed potatoes.
Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Smashed potatoes are a fun twist on traditional mashed potatoes, offering a delightful combination of crispy edges and fluffy interiors. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, these irresistible bites are seasoned to perfection and drizzled with olive oil, making them the ultimate comfort food. Enjoy them as a side dish or a savory snack that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
- 4 cloves garlic
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Wash and place the Yukon Gold potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel the garlic cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and roast on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Smash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and let them sit for a few minutes. Transfer to a greased baking sheet and gently smash each potato with a fork or masher.
- Add Flavors: Drizzle warm smashed potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle roasted garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, experiment with toppings like cheese or bacon bits. - Sweet potatoes can be used for a vibrant twist. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.