Smashed potatoes are fluffy, buttery, and slightly crispy treats that make a perfect side dish! They’re easy to make and absolutely comforting.
What’s not to love about these little gems? I like to load them up with garlic, cheese, or herbs for a tasty twist. They bring smiles to the dinner table every time! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold and red potatoes are great for this dish due to their creamy texture. If you have russet potatoes, they can work too, though they may become fluffier when smashed.
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances the flavor, but avocado oil or melted butter serves as a good alternative if you want a different taste.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These spices add nice depth. Feel free to use fresh garlic and onion instead; just sauté them briefly before adding to the potatoes. You can also swap these for garlic salt or onion flakes, if necessary!
Dried Thyme: Fresh thyme is my favorite choice if you can find it. Alternatively, you might use oregano or rosemary if you want a different flavor profile.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely flavor, but you can replace it with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do I Get My Smashed Potatoes Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that crunchy exterior is the heart of this recipe! Here’s how:
- After boiling the potatoes, let them cool slightly. This keeps them from becoming too soft when smashed.
- Smash them gently; don’t go overboard. Aim for about ½ inch thick so they can get crispy without falling apart.
- Drizzle enough oil over them to coat well, but don’t drown them! Use a brush or your hands to spread it evenly.
- Roast the potatoes in a hot oven (450°F is key) and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow steam to escape.
How to Make Smashed Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds small to medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh thyme or chives
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 40-45 minutes, including 15-20 minutes for boiling the potatoes and another 20-25 minutes for roasting them in the oven. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Next, wash the potatoes thoroughly under cool running water to clean them. Place the potatoes into a large pot and cover them with water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
2. Draining and Cooling:
Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes. You want them cool enough to handle but still warm.
3. Crushing the Potatoes:
Grab a large baking sheet and drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over it, spreading it around to coat the surface. Place the cooked potatoes on the baking sheet, then use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently smash each potato until they are about ½ inch thick. Don’t worry if they break apart a bit; that’s okay!
4. Seasoning and Roasting:
Next, drizzle the remaining olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle the tops with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Now, it’s time to roast them! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
5. Adding the Finishing Touches:
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of roasting for an extra boost of flavor. Once they’re done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Before serving, garnish the crispy smashed potatoes with fresh thyme or chives if desired. Enjoy your delicious smashed potatoes warm and crispy, perfect as a side dish for any meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and red potatoes are fantastic choices, you can also use fingerling or even small russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may have slightly different cooking times, so be sure to check for fork-tenderness.
Can I Make Smashed Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time! Boil and smash the potatoes, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before roasting. When you’re ready to bake, drizzle with olive oil and season as directed, then roast in the oven until crispy!
How to Store Leftover Smashed Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Substitute Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Yes, you can! If you have fresh herbs like thyme or chives, use about three times the amount of fresh compared to dried, as fresh herbs have a milder flavor. Just chop them and sprinkle them on before roasting or for garnish after baking!
