Smashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and a little bit fancy, these smashed potatoes are just what you need! They’re the perfect blend of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Everyone loves how easy they are to whip up, and they always disappear fast!

What makes these smashed potatoes truly special is the rich garlic and herb butter that brings out all the flavors. Trust me, once you serve these at your next dinner, your friends and family will be asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can prepare these delicious smashed potatoes in under an hour—perfect for those busy evenings!
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their crispy edges and tender centers, everyone will love this delightful twist on classic potatoes.
• Versatile Side Dish: These smashed potatoes pair beautifully with any main course, making them a go-to addition to your meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the potatoes ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese creates an irresistible flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just some simple, wholesome ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful smashed potatoes:

For the Smashed Potatoes

• 1 pound baby potatoes (such as red potatoes or Yukon Gold)
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• Cooking spray

Variations

One of the best things about these smashed potatoes is how adaptable they are! Feel free to get creative with flavors and toppings. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Some Heat: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Goodness: Swap out parmesan for crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a fragrant twist.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and skip the parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Adding salt to the water helps season the potatoes from within. Once boiling, add your baby potatoes and cook them for 18-22 minutes or until they’re tender enough to easily poke with a fork. This step is crucial because it ensures your potatoes have that perfect creamy texture!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While your potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. A hot oven is key to getting those crispy edges we all love in smashed potatoes.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and ensure that your potatoes roast evenly. After draining your boiled potatoes, lay them out in a single layer on the pan.

Step 4: Smash Those Potatoes

Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, carefully flatten each potato until it’s about half an inch thick. Don’t worry about making them perfect—some irregular shapes add character! This smashing process increases their surface area so they get extra crispy during roasting.

Step 5: Make Garlic Herb Butter

In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients together allows all those lovely flavors to meld perfectly. Drizzle this mixture generously over each flattened potato.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese over all the smashed potatoes. The cheese will melt beautifully as they bake, creating a golden crust that’s simply irresistible.

Step 7: Bake Until Crispy

Pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them toward the end of cooking—you want that beautiful color without burning! Once done, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color.

And there you have it—deliciously crispy smashed potatoes that are sure to be loved by everyone at your table! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Smashed Potatoes

These smashed potatoes are sure to become a favorite, and with a few simple tips, you can make them even better!

• Choose the right potatoes: Using baby potatoes like red potatoes or Yukon Gold ensures that they are tender and creamy on the inside, which creates the perfect contrast with the crispy exterior.

• Don’t rush the boiling: Cooking the potatoes until they are tender is crucial—this guarantees they will smash easily and absorb all those delicious flavors from the garlic and herb butter.

• Be generous with butter: Drizzling enough of the garlic butter mixture over each potato not only adds flavor but also encourages that lovely golden brown crust as they roast.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or spices into the butter. Fresh rosemary or thyme can add a delightful twist that complements the potatoes beautifully.

• Let them rest before serving: Allowing your smashed potatoes to sit for a few minutes after baking lets them firm up slightly, making them easier to serve while still retaining that crispy texture.

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Presenting your smashed potatoes can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at meal time.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: These add a burst of freshness and color, complementing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crumbled feta cheese: A sprinkle of feta provides a creamy contrast and tangy flavor that elevates each bite.
• Lemon zest: A light grating of lemon zest brightens up the dish, adding a refreshing citrus note that balances out the richness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini tossed in olive oil and herbs roast beautifully alongside smashed potatoes for a colorful plate.
• Grilled chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs makes an excellent protein option that pairs well with the creamy potatoes.
• Mixed green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty smashed potatoes.
• Steamed broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also provides a nutritious side that complements this comfort dish perfectly.

Enjoy crafting these delicious smashed potatoes into your next meal; they’re bound to impress everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These smashed potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making it easy to enjoy a delicious side dish throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For a quick option, use a microwave but be aware that they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about smashed potatoes that might help you out!

Can I make smashed potatoes without cheese?

Yes! You can easily omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative to suit your dietary preferences.

How do I make perfect smashed potatoes?

To achieve perfectly smashed potatoes, ensure they are fully cooked until tender before smashing. This guarantees a fluffy interior and crispy exterior after roasting.

What can I serve with smashed potatoes?

Smashed potatoes pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or fish. They make for a versatile side dish at any meal!

Are smashed potatoes healthy?

Absolutely! Smashed potatoes made from baby potatoes are nutritious and provide fiber and vitamins. Just be mindful of portion sizes with added butter and cheese.

Final Thoughts

These smashed potatoes are truly something special, combining simplicity with fantastic flavor. I hope this recipe inspires you to create a delightful side dish that brings joy to your table. Enjoy making these crispy gems, and don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or herbs! Happy cooking!