Why You’ll Love This smashed potatoes

Ease of preparation: This smashed potatoes recipe is straightforward and quick, requiring just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients. With a total prep and cook time of about 45 minutes, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you want a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing side dish.

Health benefits: Packed with fiber and essential vitamins from nutrient-rich yellow potatoes, this dish promotes digestive health and provides important minerals like potassium. Using olive oil and fresh herbs adds heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, making smashed potatoes a wholesome, satisfying option.
Versatility: Flexible to suit various dietary needs, this smashed potatoes recipe is naturally gluten-free and easily adapted for vegan diets simply by omitting cheese or substituting with plant-based alternatives. You can adjust seasonings and toppings to keep calories low or enhance flavors for special occasions.

Distinctive flavor: The combination of a creamy interior and crispy, golden brown edges, achieved by smashing and roasting small yellow potatoes, creates a delightful contrast. Fresh herbs, garlic, and optional Parmesan add bursts of aroma and savory richness, making this dish stand out as a deliciously textured side.

Essential Ingredients for smashed potatoes

2 pounds small yellow potatoes (about 2 inches in diameter) – chosen for their creamy texture and crispy roasting ability
2 teaspoons salt, divided (1 teaspoon for boiling, 1 teaspoon for seasoning) – essential for seasoning during cooking and finishing

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing – imparts flavor and helps create crispiness
1½ teaspoons garlic powder – adds aromatic, savory notes
¾ teaspoon onion powder – provides subtle sweetness and depth
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – balances and enhances flavors

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and/or dill) – optional, for freshness and aroma
Flaky sea salt – optional, for finishing with texture and brightness
Parmesan cheese – optional, for added savory richness

Special Dietary Options:

Vegan: Use plant-based olive oil and omit cheese or substitute with vegan Parmesan alternatives.

Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free, perfect for those avoiding gluten.
Low-calorie: Use less olive oil and skip cheese for a lighter version.

How to Prepare the Perfect smashed potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Prepare the potatoes

Start by washing the small yellow potatoes thoroughly. Place them whole in a large pot and cover with water, adding 1 teaspoon salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until just tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Be careful not to overcook they should hold together when smashed.

Second Step: Preheat and prepare baking sheets

While the potatoes are cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously oil two rimmed baking sheets using olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage crispiness during roasting.

Third Step: Drain and cool the potatoes

Drain the cooked potatoes and let them cool slightly until safe to handle. This cooling helps them firm up a bit for smashing and prevents breaking apart too much.

Fourth Step: Smash the potatoes

Transfer the potatoes to the prepared baking sheets. Using the bottom of a measuring cup or a large fork, gently press each potato until it’s approximately ¼-inch thick. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the pieces intact but thin enough to crisp up in the oven.

Fifth Step: Let potatoes steam dry

Allow the smashed potatoes to rest on the sheets for about 5 minutes, which lets moisture evaporate and leads to crispier edges when baked.

Sixth Step: Season and roast

Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add melted butter mixed with olive oil for richness. Roast the potatoes in the oven for 25 to 35 minutes, turning the pans halfway through for even browning. Avoid flipping the potatoes to maintain crispness on the bottom.

Final Step: Garnish and serve

After roasting, season the smashed potatoes with flaky sea salt, fresh herbs, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy centers and crispy, golden edges.

The secret to irresistible smashed potatoes lies in the steam drying and roasting steps, which create those coveted crispy edges while keeping the inside tender and buttery.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your smashed potatoes

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Swap Yukon Gold or yellow potatoes with other small waxy potatoes such as red potatoes or fingerlings for seasonal variations.

Consider adding plant-based proteins like roasted chickpeas or sautéed tempeh as a hearty topping for a vegan-friendly meal.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Use seasonal vegetables such as roasted asparagus, sautéed kale, or grill-marked zucchini alongside for diverse textures and nutrients.
Add flavor with varying herbs like rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika to suit personal tastes or dietary restrictions.

Swap Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if vegan or dairy-free preferences are needed.
Incorporate garlic-infused oil or compound herb butters for richer flavor without compromising dietary goals.

Mastering smashed potatoes: Advanced Tips and Variations

Tip	Details
Pro cooking techniques	Boil potatoes whole with skins on for better moisture retention and to prevent them from falling apart while smashing.
Flavor variations	Add spices like smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or toss with infused olive oil to complement different palates.
Presentation tips	Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill, and finish with flaky sea salt for visual contrast and texture.
Make-ahead options	Boil and smash potatoes ahead of time, refrigerate, and roast just before serving to save time while retaining crispiness.

How to Store smashed potatoes: Best Practices

Refrigeration: Store leftover smashed potatoes in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 days. Avoid stacking to maintain texture.

Freezing: Freeze smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to airtight containers. Keep frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes to restore crispiness rather than using a microwave, which may soften the potatoes.
Meal prep considerations: Prepare potatoes in batches, cool completely before storing, and portion according to planned meals for freshness and quality.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About smashed potatoes

Can I boil the potatoes ahead of time before smashing and baking them?

Yes, you can boil the potatoes a day in advance to save time. After boiling, drain and let them cool completely. Store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready, bring them back to room temperature before smashing and baking for the best texture.

What type of potatoes make the best smashed potatoes?

Baby potatoes and small to medium-sized potatoes work well. High-starch varieties like Russets give a fluffier interior, while waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold create creamier centers. Choose based on whether you prefer a fluffy or creamy texture.

How can I get smashed potatoes extra crispy without burning them?

To achieve crispy smashed potatoes, let the boiled potatoes steam dry before and after smashing. Use a mix of oil (like olive oil) for browning and butter added after baking for flavor, as butter alone can burn at high heat. Bake at around 200°C (390°F) without flipping them during cooking.

Can I add garlic or herbs to this recipe without burning them?

Yes, but avoid adding raw garlic or fresh herbs directly to hot oil as they can burn quickly. Instead, infuse garlic in melted butter and discard the cloves before drizzling on the potatoes. For herbs, add dried herbs to the boiling water when cooking the potatoes to release flavor without burning.

Is it necessary to peel potatoes before making smashed potatoes?

No, peeling is not required. Cooking with the skin on helps the potatoes hold their shape when smashed and adds texture and flavor. Just wash and scrub the potatoes well before boiling.

smashed potatoes

Author: Valentina Lewis
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

🥔 Discover the delightful combination of creamy interiors and crispy edges with these irresistible smashed potatoes!
🧄 Perfect as a snack or side dish, their savory flavor complements many main courses, adding a gourmet touch to any meal.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds small yellow potatoes

– 2 teaspoons salt

– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

– 1½ teaspoons garlic powder

– ¾ teaspoon onion powder

– Freshly ground black pepper

– 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs

– Flaky sea salt

– Parmesan cheese

Instructions

First Step: Prepare the potatoes Start by washing the small yellow potatoes thoroughly. Place them whole in a large pot and cover with water, adding 1 teaspoon salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until just tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Be careful not to overcook they should hold together when smashed.

Second Step: Preheat and prepare baking sheets While the potatoes are cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously oil two rimmed baking sheets using olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage crispiness during roasting.

Third Step: Drain and cool the potatoes Drain the cooked potatoes and let them cool slightly until safe to handle. This cooling helps them firm up a bit for smashing and prevents breaking apart too much.

Fourth Step: Smash the potatoes Transfer the potatoes to the prepared baking sheets. Using the bottom of a measuring cup or a large fork, gently press each potato until it’s approximately ¼-inch thick. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the pieces intact but thin enough to crisp up in the oven.

Fifth Step: Let potatoes steam dry Allow the smashed potatoes to rest on the sheets for about 5 minutes, which lets moisture evaporate and leads to crispier edges when baked.

Sixth Step: Season and roast Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add melted butter mixed with olive oil for richness. Roast the potatoes in the oven for 25 to 35 minutes, turning the pans halfway through for even browning. Avoid flipping the potatoes to maintain crispness on the bottom.

Final Step: Garnish and serve After roasting, season the smashed potatoes with flaky sea salt, fresh herbs, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy centers and crispy, golden edges.

Notes

🥔 Small yellow potatoes are best for a creamy inside and crisp exterior.
💧 Let potatoes steam after smashing to improve crunch.
💡 Prepare boiled potatoes in advance to save time later.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 1-2 potatoes
Calories: Estimated moderate amount

Keywords: Smashed Potatoes, Crispy Edges, Savory Side, Potato Snack

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