Name: Smashed Potato Tacos: 5 Simple Steps to Deliciousness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups of boiled potatoes; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 teaspoon of pepper; 1 teaspoon of paprika; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup of shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro; 1 avocado, sliced

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Oh my goodness, have you ever tried smashed potato tacos? They are truly a game changer! Imagine crispy, golden-brown smashed potatoes nestled in warm tortillas, topped with fresh veggies and creamy avocado. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth! I remember the first time I made these; my friends couldn’t get enough. They’re so versatile, too! You can customize them with whatever toppings you love—whether it’s a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of salsa, or a handful of cilantro. Trust me, once you try these smashed potato tacos, you’ll be hooked and coming back for more!

smashed potato tacos - detail 1

Ingredients List

To whip up these delicious smashed potato tacos, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

2 cups of boiled potatoes (make sure they’re tender!)
1 tablespoon of olive oil for that crispy goodness
1 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor
1/2 teaspoon of pepper for a little kick
1 teaspoon of paprika for a smoky touch
8 small corn tortillas to hold all those tasty fillings
1 cup of shredded lettuce for crunch
1/2 cup of diced tomatoes for freshness
1/4 cup of chopped cilantro for that burst of flavor
1 avocado, sliced for creaminess

These ingredients create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings too!

How to Prepare Smashed Potato Tacos

Making smashed potato tacos is super easy and oh-so-satisfying! Let’s dive into the steps to create these crispy, tasty delights. First, we’ll start with boiling the potatoes until they’re perfectly tender. Once they’re ready, we’ll smash them gently and season them for that added flavor. Finally, it’s all about pan-frying them to golden brown perfection! Are you ready? Let’s go!

Boiling the Potatoes

Start by boiling 2 cups of peeled potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. You can check their tenderness by poking them with a fork; they should easily give way. Once done, drain and let them cool slightly before smashing!

Preparing the Smashed Potatoes

When the potatoes have cooled a bit, grab a fork and gently smash each potato. You want them to break apart but not turn into mush—aim for a nice, chunky texture. Then, drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to coat each piece!

Cooking the Tacos

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add the smashed potatoes, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. While they’re cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan for about 30 seconds on each side. Once everything’s ready, pile those crispy potatoes into the warmed tortillas and get ready to dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Flavorful: The combination of crispy potatoes seasoned to perfection makes each bite a delight.
Customizable: You can switch up the toppings to match your mood—add cheese, salsa, or any of your favorite veggies!
Vegetarian-friendly: These tacos are a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week!

Tips for Success

To make your smashed potato tacos truly shine, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to fit your taste—if you love heat, toss in some cayenne pepper or chili powder! You can also experiment with different toppings; cotija cheese adds a wonderful creaminess, while pickled jalapeños bring a zesty kick. If you want an extra layer of flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice right before serving. And remember, letting the potatoes cool slightly before smashing helps them hold their shape better. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you’ve got any smashed potato tacos left over (which is rare, trust me!), you’ll want to store them properly to keep that deliciousness intact. Place the cooled tacos in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, don’t just microwave them—give them a little love! Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re crispy again. You could also pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy that crispy goodness!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a heads up—nutritional information can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided a rough estimate, it’s always a good idea to check the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate data. Happy cooking and enjoy your smashed potato tacos!

FAQ Section

Can I use other types of potatoes? Absolutely! While I love using regular potatoes, you can try sweet potatoes or even Yukon gold for a different flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for corn tortillas? If you’re not a corn tortilla fan, feel free to use flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!

How do I serve these tacos? You can serve smashed potato tacos with a side of creamy avocado dip, a refreshing salsa, or even a zesty lime wedge to squeeze on top for extra flavor.

Can I make them ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the smashed potatoes and store them in the fridge, then just fry them up when you’re ready to assemble the tacos!