Oh, let me tell you about crispy smashed potatoes! These little gems are an absolute crowd-pleaser, and they never fail to steal the show at my gatherings. The moment you pull them out of the oven, they’re golden and crunchy with just the right amount of seasoning, and trust me, the smell is simply irresistible! What I love most about this smashed potatoes recipe is how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a side dish that’s bursting with flavor. I remember serving these at a family barbecue last summer, and everyone went back for seconds—my heart swelled with joy! So, if you’re looking for a side that’s delicious and requires minimal effort, these smashed potatoes are calling your name!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients for these crispy smashed potatoes is super simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (look for firm ones, they’ll hold up best)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is my favorite for that rich flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (it adds a lovely depth without the fuss)
- Salt to taste (I usually go for a generous pinch)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is the way to go!)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (this adds a pop of color and freshness)
That’s it! Just these few ingredients will make your smashed potatoes shine!
How to Prepare Smashed Potatoes
Now, let’s get down to the fun part—preparing those scrumptious smashed potatoes! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a side dish that will wow everyone.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect crispy texture! Give it about 10 minutes to heat up while you get the rest of your ingredients ready. Trust me, you want that oven nice and hot.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Next, grab your baby potatoes and toss them into a pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender. You can check for doneness by poking a potato with a fork—if it slides in easily, you’re good to go! Drain them and let them cool for a few minutes; we want them warm, not scalding hot!
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Now comes the fun part—smashing! Place the boiled potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a fork, gently press down on each potato until it’s flattened but not completely falling apart. You want them to hold their shape while still getting that nice crispy edge when they bake!
Step 4: Season and Bake
Drizzle those smashed potatoes with olive oil, making sure each one gets a nice coating. Then, sprinkle on the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Pop them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should come out golden brown and unbelievably crispy!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving. It not only looks beautiful but adds a burst of freshness! These smashed potatoes pair perfectly with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even as a snack on their own. Enjoy every crispy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Deliciously crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
- Versatile side dish that complements any meal—grilled meats, salads, or even just on their own!
- Minimal ingredients needed, making it budget-friendly.
- Customizable with your favorite seasonings or toppings—try adding cheese or herbs!
- Always a crowd-pleaser, making it a hit at gatherings and family dinners.
Seriously, once you make these smashed potatoes, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make your smashed potatoes absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t be shy with the seasoning—taste as you go and adjust to your liking! If you love a cheesy flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar on top before baking. You can also mix things up by adding different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist. Remember, if you want extra crunch, try broiling them for the last few minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn! And trust me, leftovers can be reheated in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about smashed potatoes? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common ones I hear:
Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are perfect for this recipe, you can use larger ones. Just be sure to cut them into smaller chunks before boiling, so they cook evenly.
What can I do if my smashed potatoes aren’t crispy enough?
If they’re not crispy, it might be due to too much moisture. Make sure to drain them well after boiling and give them space on the baking sheet. You can also broil them for an extra minute or two at the end to get that delightful crunch!
Can I make smashed potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the potatoes up to the smashing point, then cover and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to bake, just drizzle with oil and season before popping them in the oven!
What are some good toppings for smashed potatoes?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Try adding crumbled feta, crispy bacon bits, or even a drizzle of sour cream. Fresh herbs like chives or dill can elevate the flavor too!
Are smashed potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, smashed potatoes are naturally gluten-free, making them a great side dish for everyone!
Nutritional Information
These crispy smashed potatoes are not only delicious but also pretty balanced! Here’s the estimated nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Total Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use or the size of your potatoes. But they’ll still be a tasty addition to your meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your crispy smashed potatoes, just let them cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it comes to reheating, I’ve found that the oven is your best friend for keeping that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the potatoes on a baking sheet, and heat them for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer if you have one—just a few minutes in there, and they’ll be as good as fresh! Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
Print
Smashed Potatoes: 5 Irresistible Steps to Perfection
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful smashed potatoes, perfect as a side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and gently smash each one using a fork.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning as per your taste.
- Try adding cheese for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: smashed potatoes, crispy potatoes, side dish
