Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Name: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds small Yukon Gold potatoes; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

March 4, 2025

Updated:

March 4, 2025

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Have you ever craved a side dish that combines the perfect crunch with a fluffy interior? Look no further than crispy smashed potatoes. These delightful little morsels boast a golden exterior that shatters with each bite, revealing a soft and buttery center. The aroma of these potatoes baking in the oven is simply irresistible, making them an ideal complement to any meal.

Crispy smashed potatoes are not just tasty; they are versatile enough for various occasions. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this dish steals the spotlight. Imagine gathering around the table as everyone digs into these flavorful bites—it’s an experience worth savoring. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Irresistible Crunch: The unique smashing technique creates a perfect balance between crunchiness and tenderness that will keep you coming back for more.
Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and simple instructions, even novice cooks can master this delicious recipe without stress.
Versatile Dish: Pair these potatoes with various main courses or serve them as an appetizer at gatherings—they fit right in anywhere!

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Small Yukon Gold Potatoes: About 1-2 pounds are ideal for achieving the perfect texture; their creamy flesh makes them great for smashing.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and to help achieve that golden crispiness on the outside.
Salt: A generous sprinkle enhances the potato’s natural flavor; consider using sea salt for extra crunch.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice that elevates the overall taste profile of the dish.
Fresh Herbs (like rosemary or thyme): Chopped herbs will add freshness and aromatic flavor; feel free to experiment with your favorites.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature ensures that your smashed potatoes will turn out beautifully crispy.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place your Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Drain and Cool

Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly. This step helps them firm up before smashing.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

On a parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the cooled potatoes with some space between each one. Using a flat spatula or your palm, gently smash each potato until it’s about half an inch thick.

Step 5: Season and Drizzle

Drizzle olive oil generously over each smashed potato. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and fresh herbs evenly across all of them.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional olive oil if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Select Small Potatoes: Smaller potatoes cook more evenly and create an ideal bite-sized portion when smashed.
Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Ensure your potatoes are tender before smashing; undercooked potatoes may break apart rather than smash nicely.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to mix in garlic powder or paprika for added flavor dimensions that suit your palate.

Mistakes to avoid

Using the Wrong Type of Potato: Selecting the wrong type of potato can ruin your crispy smashed potatoes. Opt for starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. These types break down easily and become fluffy inside while achieving that golden, crispy exterior when roasted. Waxy potatoes do not yield the desired texture and will leave you with disappointing results. Always choose high-starch potatoes for the best flavor and crunch.
Skipping the Boiling Step: One common mistake is to skip boiling the potatoes before smashing them. This crucial step softens the potatoes, allowing for a perfect smash. If you go straight to roasting, you risk having hard centers that lack the creamy texture we all love. Ensure you boil until fork-tender to achieve that delightful contrast between crispy outside and fluffy inside.
Not Preheating Your Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. The key to achieving crispy smashed potatoes lies in a hot oven that creates immediate heat on the surface. This helps in forming a crisp crust while keeping the insides tender. Always preheat your oven for at least 10-15 minutes before placing your potatoes inside so they cook evenly and reach optimal crispiness.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: When making crispy smashed potatoes, giving each piece enough space is essential. Overcrowding can trap steam and result in soggy potatoes instead of crispy ones. Spread your smashed potatoes out on a baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, creating that sought-after crunch.
Neglecting Seasoning: A common oversight is not seasoning your crispy smashed potatoes adequately. Potatoes absorb flavors beautifully, so be generous with salt, pepper, and additional herbs or spices. Before roasting, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with seasonings to enhance their taste significantly. Proper seasoning elevates these simple ingredients into a delicious side dish that complements any meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Crispy Smashed Potatoes is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Grilled Chicken: The crunchiness of the potatoes complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken beautifully, creating a satisfying meal.
Steak: Serve these potatoes alongside a juicy steak for a hearty dinner. The crispy texture adds an exciting contrast to the tenderness of the meat.
Roasted Vegetables: For a vegetarian option, pair your crispy smashed potatoes with a medley of roasted vegetables. This combination offers both nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

What are Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish made by boiling small potatoes until tender, then smashing them flat and roasting them until golden brown. This cooking method creates a crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior. Seasoned with herbs and spices, these potatoes offer an irresistible crunch that enhances any meal.

How do I achieve the perfect crispiness in my Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

To achieve perfect crispiness in your Crispy Smashed Potatoes, ensure you dry them thoroughly after boiling. Use high heat when roasting and add enough oil to coat each smashed potato evenly. Flipping them halfway through the cooking process will also help to ensure all sides become beautifully golden and crispy.

Can I make Crispy Smashed Potatoes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes in advance! Boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast them at high heat until they are crispy. Just keep in mind that freshly roasted potatoes will always have the best texture.

What can I add to enhance my Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

To enhance your Crispy Smashed Potatoes, consider adding garlic powder, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even grated cheese before roasting. These additions infuse extra flavor into the dish and elevate its taste profile significantly.

Conclusion for Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Crispy Smashed Potatoes are not only easy to prepare but also deliver an incredible combination of flavors and textures. By boiling, smashing, and roasting your potatoes, you create a side dish that stands out at any meal. Pair them with grilled chicken or steak for an unforgettable dining experience. Remember to experiment with seasonings and toppings for added flair. Whether enjoyed as part of a weeknight dinner or at a festive gathering, these crispy potatoes are sure to impress everyone at your table!