Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe for Perfect Crunch

Name: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds baby potatoes; 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme); Optional: garlic powder for added flavor

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

March 3, 2025

Updated:

March 3, 2025

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Have you ever craved the perfect potato side dish? Crispy smashed potatoes offer a delightful combination of crunch and fluffiness that will elevate any meal. Imagine biting into a golden-brown exterior that gives way to a creamy interior, all while being infused with aromatic spices and herbs. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also appeals to your senses with its inviting aroma and beautiful presentation.

Crispy smashed potatoes are ideal for family gatherings, barbecues, or even casual weeknight dinners. They are simple to prepare yet impressively delicious. With their satisfying crunch and endless customization options—from garlic and rosemary to Parmesan cheese—these potatoes can easily adapt to suit any palate or occasion. Join me on this culinary adventure as we explore how to make these incredible crispy smashed potatoes that promise to be the star of your next meal.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Incredible Texture: The contrast between the crispy crust and fluffy interior creates a delightful eating experience that everyone will love.
Versatile Flavor Options: These potatoes can be customized with various seasonings and toppings, making them suitable for any cuisine or preference.
Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious potatoes ready in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, crispy smashed potatoes fit seamlessly into any meal.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potatoes

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

Baby Potatoes: Try using small baby potatoes for the best texture; they’re tender and cook evenly.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps achieve that golden crispiness while adding flavor.
Salt: Use coarse salt for seasoning; it enhances the flavor of the potatoes beautifully.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds depth and spice to the dish.
Fresh Herbs (like rosemary or thyme): Fresh herbs provide aromatic notes that elevate the dish’s overall flavor profile.

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) so it’s hot enough to crisp up the potatoes perfectly.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Carefully place boiled potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a flat-bottomed glass or potato masher to gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.

Step 4: Season Generously

Drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Transfer the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Transfer to plates and garnish with extra herbs if desired for an attractive finish.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

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

Use Small Potatoes: Smaller baby potatoes yield better texture since they cook evenly throughout.
Boil Before Baking: Boiling ensures that the insides are tender before they get that desirable crunch from baking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each potato enough space on the sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.

Enjoy making these crispy smashed potatoes as they promise not only flavor but also an enjoyable cooking experience!

Mistakes to avoid

Not Choosing the Right Potatoes: Selecting the wrong type of potatoes can greatly affect your crispy smashed potatoes. For the best results, opt for starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. These potatoes provide a fluffy interior and crisp outer layer when cooked. Avoid waxy potatoes, such as red or fingerling varieties, as they won’t yield the same crispy texture. Always pick fresh potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes.
Overcooking or Undercooking the Potatoes: The cooking time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your crispy smashed potatoes. If you overcook them, they will become mushy and difficult to smash. Conversely, if you undercook them, they won’t be tender enough to achieve that desired crispiness. Boil your potatoes until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. This balance ensures a delightful crunch when baked.
Skipping the Cooling Step: Patience is key when making crispy smashed potatoes. After boiling and smashing your potatoes, let them cool for a few minutes before baking. This step allows the surface moisture to evaporate, leading to a better crunch during baking. Skipping this step may result in soggy potatoes instead of the crispy texture you desire.
Not Preheating Your Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can significantly impact how well your crispy smashed potatoes turn out. A hot oven ensures that the oil heats up quickly, helping to create that sought-after golden crust. Set your oven temperature high enough—around 425°F (220°C)—to promote optimal browning and crispiness. Take this extra step for perfectly roasted sides every time.
Using Too Little Oil: To achieve that irresistible crunch, don’t skimp on oil! Generously drizzling olive oil or melted butter over your smashed potatoes before baking is essential for flavor and texture. Insufficient oil can lead to dry or unevenly cooked potatoes. Make sure each potato is well-coated for maximum crispiness.

Ingredients

To create delicious Crispy Smashed Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

– 2 pounds of baby potatoes

– 4 tablespoons of olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme

– Optional: garlic powder for added flavor

These simple yet flavorful ingredients will help you achieve the perfect crispy texture while maintaining a fluffy interior.

Instructions

Making Crispy Smashed Potatoes is easy and rewarding. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).

2. Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.

3. Once boiling, reduce heat and let them simmer for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender.

4. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly before smashing each one with the back of a fork or a potato masher.

5. Arrange the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Drizzle olive oil over them, ensuring each potato gets coated. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired.

7. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Smashed Potatoes are versatile and pair wonderfully with:

Grilled meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
Salads: They complement fresh garden salads perfectly, adding texture and flavor.
Dips: Enjoy them with sauces like aioli or ranch dressing for an appetizer.

FAQs

What are Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

Crispy Smashed Potatoes are small potatoes that are boiled until tender, then smashed flat and baked until golden brown and crispy. This cooking method results in a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft interior, making them an irresistible side dish.

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of potatoes to make Crispy Smashed Potatoes. While baby potatoes work best due to their size and tenderness, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also yield excellent results. The key is to ensure they are boiled until tender before smashing.

How can I store leftover Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

To store leftover Crispy Smashed Potatoes, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about three days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

You can enhance the flavor of Crispy Smashed Potatoes by adding various spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for heat. Cheese lovers might enjoy sprinkling parmesan on top before baking or mixing in some crumbled feta afterward for added richness.

Conclusion for Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Crispy Smashed Potatoes offer an enjoyable twist on traditional roasted potatoes, combining simplicity with incredible flavor. The process involves boiling small potatoes until soft, smashing them flat, then roasting them until they’re irresistibly crispy. These potatoes can accompany various main dishes or serve as a fantastic snack on their own with dips. By using simple ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs, you achieve a gourmet taste without much effort. Don’t hesitate to try different variations by incorporating spices or cheeses to suit your palate! Enjoy your cooking adventure!