If you have been searching for the perfect balance of golden crispiness and fluffy potato goodness, look no further than this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s that magical comfort food that effortlessly turns simple potatoes into a crunchy, flavorful treat that everyone will adore. Whether you’re serving them as a side or enjoying them as a snack, these crispy smashed potatoes make for an irresistible dish that’s packed with texture and a subtle punch of garlic and seasoning. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new favorite way to prepare potatoes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a few humble ingredients, this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe comes together quickly and simply. Each ingredient plays an essential role in crafting perfectly crispy skin, tender interiors, and that mouthwatering golden finish.
- 1 pound small Yukon Gold or red potatoes: Uniform size ensures even cooking and smashing so every bite is consistent.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This adds rich flavor and helps create that irresistible crisp crust on the outside.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle garlic kick that complements the potatoes without overpowering them.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors and seasoning the dish perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground: Adds just the right touch of warmth and complexity.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a hot 450°F, which is key for achieving that golden, blistery exterior. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This small setup step ensures even cooking and prevents your potatoes from sticking, so none of that precious crispy layer gets left behind.
Step 2: Boil Potatoes Until Tender
Place your small potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook them gently until they are fork-tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Salting the water seasons the potatoes from the inside, enhancing their natural flavor and preparing them perfectly for smashing.
Step 3: Smash Each Potato Carefully
Once the potatoes have cooled enough to handle, carefully flatten each one with a masher or the bottom of a sturdy glass until they are about half an inch thick. The goal is to create a slightly crushed potato with cracks and crevices, which will transform into crispy bits when baked. Be gentle to keep them intact but smashed just enough to expose more surface area to the heat.
Step 4: Drizzle, Season, and Bake to Perfection
Arrange the smashed potatoes on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown and crispy. The aroma at this point is absolutely intoxicating, promising a delightful bite every time.
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
These crispy smashed potatoes are a perfect canvas for all kinds of toppings. Freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or even some flaky sea salt can elevate the dish and add a touch of freshness or savory complexity. Try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives for even more flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with just about anything. Think alongside roasted meats like chicken or steak, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. Their rustic charm and crispy texture make them a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these potatoes stacked like a mini tower, layering with melted cheese or a drizzle of spicy aioli. They also shine as an appetizer—just add toothpicks and offer a variety of dipping sauces like garlic mayo, spicy ketchup, or tangy ranch. Presentation is a great way to make this recipe even more irresistible and conversation-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The potatoes will retain much of their flavor, though the crispness might soften slightly. Don’t worry—we have tips to bring back that crunch!
Freezing
While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked and cooled smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your crispy smashed potatoes and recapture that crunch is in the oven or an air fryer. Skip the microwave as it tends to make them soggy. Reheat at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp on the outside. You’ll be surprised at how close to freshly baked they taste!
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold or red potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be smashed and baked the same way. Just keep in mind they may need a slightly different cooking time due to their moisture content and sweetness, but the results are deliciously crispy and sweet.
What if my potatoes fall apart when I try to smash them?
This usually happens if the potatoes are overcooked or too soft. To avoid this, boil them until just fork-tender—soft enough to pierce but still firm. Letting them cool slightly before smashing also helps maintain their shape.
Is there a way to make these potatoes extra crispy?
Using a high oven temperature, plenty of olive oil, and ensuring the potatoes are spaced out on the baking sheet will all contribute to extra crispiness. Flipping them halfway through baking can also help crisp both sides evenly.
Can I add fresh herbs before baking?
Fresh herbs tend to burn in a hot oven, so it’s best to add them after baking for a fresh burst of flavor. Rosemary, thyme, or parsley sprinkled on top right before serving can make a wonderful difference.
Are these potatoes gluten-free?
Yes! This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe uses only naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. Just be sure your seasonings and oil are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is such a simple yet extraordinary way to enjoy one of the most beloved comfort foods. Crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside, with a perfect punch of seasoning—what’s not to love? I can’t wait for you to try this at home and discover just how easy it is to turn everyday potatoes into a spectacular dish that your family and friends will beg you to make again and again.
Print
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a simple yet delicious side dish featuring tender boiled potatoes that are smashed and baked to a golden, crunchy perfection. Seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, these potatoes make a perfect accompaniment to any meal, offering a delightful contrast of textures and rich flavor with the use of extra virgin olive oil.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 pound small Yukon Gold or red potatoes, uniform size
Seasonings and Oil
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the small potatoes in salted water and cook them until they are fork-tender, meaning you should be able to easily pierce them with a fork. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Smash the Potatoes: On the prepared baking sheet, gently flatten each cooled potato using a masher or the bottom of a glass until they are about ½ inch thick. Be careful not to break them apart.
- Season and Bake: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper evenly over them. Bake in the preheated oven until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy, about 20-25 minutes.
Notes
- Use uniform-sized small potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- Allow potatoes to cool slightly before smashing to prevent them from falling apart.
- For extra crispiness, flip potatoes halfway through baking.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
