Smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Imagine golden, crispy edges giving way to fluffy interiors, all topped with a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of melted butter. It’s a dish that hugs you from the inside out.
These potatoes aren’t just food; they’re memories waiting to happen. Picture a family gathering—laughter filling the air as everyone digs into these irresistible gems. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, smashed potatoes steal the show every time, promising flavor and warmth in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Smashed potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any skill level in the kitchen
- Their rich, buttery flavor paired with crispy edges creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist
- Visually appealing, they can elevate any meal with their delightful presentation
- You can customize toppings and seasonings, making them versatile enough for any occasion!
Ingredients for Smashed Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Small Yukon Gold Potatoes: These creamy potatoes are perfect for smashing due to their buttery texture. Aim for about 2 pounds to feed your hungry crowd.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor while helping achieve that delicious crispiness on the outside.
Salt: Use sea salt or kosher salt to bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes. Don’t be shy—season generously!
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A must-have for adding depth; freshly ground makes all the difference in taste.
Fresh Herbs (like rosemary or thyme): Chopped herbs add freshness and an aromatic quality that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Smashed Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place your small Yukon gold potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Drain and Cool
Once your potatoes are perfectly tender, drain them in a colander and let them cool for about five minutes. This helps them firm up slightly so they smash better.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
While your potatoes cool down, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Step 4: Smash Those Potatoes
Now comes the fun part! Place each potato on the baking sheet and use a flat-bottomed glass or potato masher to gently smash each one until it’s about half an inch thick. Don’t worry about perfection; rustic is charming!
Step 5: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle olive oil generously over each smashed potato, ensuring they get nice and crispy when roasted. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs of your choice.
Step 6: Bake Until Crispy
Pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them; we want crispy but not charred!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Add more fresh herbs if desired or even some grated cheese for an extra indulgent treat!
Now go ahead—enjoy those smashed potatoes while basking in compliments from friends and family!
You Must Know
- These smashed potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a culinary hug on a plate
- Crisp on the outside and fluffy within, they’re perfect for any meal
- Plus, they’re easy to make, making them a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your potatoes until tender. Drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, gently smash each potato with a fork or spatula before roasting in olive oil until golden brown and crispy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Toss in garlic powder, fresh herbs, or even some cheese for extra flavor. You can also use sweet potatoes for a colorful twist on classic smashed potatoes.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F to regain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly smashed potatoes, always choose waxy varieties like Yukon Golds; they hold their shape best
- Don’t skip the resting time after boiling; it helps them crisp up beautifully when roasted
- Finally, feel free to experiment with toppings like sour cream or chives for added flair
Sometimes I think my friends keep coming over just for these smashed potatoes! They’ve become an essential part of every gathering, and I love seeing everyone’s faces light up when they take that first crispy bite.
FAQs:
What are Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are a delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes. They involve boiling potatoes until tender, then smashing them into flat discs before baking or frying. This method creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and flavorful. You can season smashed potatoes with herbs, garlic, cheese, or any other toppings you desire, making them a versatile side dish perfect for any meal.
How do you make Smashed Potatoes crispy?
To achieve crispy smashed potatoes, start by boiling them until fork-tender. Drain and allow them to dry slightly to remove excess moisture. Next, gently flatten each potato with a fork or your palm, and drizzle with olive oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This technique ensures that they develop a golden-brown, crunchy texture while maintaining a soft interior.
Can I prepare Smashed Potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare smashed potatoes in advance! Boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply take them out, drizzle with oil and seasoning, and roast them in the oven until crispy. This makes smashed potatoes an excellent choice for meal prep or holiday gatherings when you want to save time in the kitchen.
What are some topping ideas for Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. You can try classic options like sour cream and chives or go bold with bacon bits and cheddar cheese. For a gourmet touch, consider adding roasted garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Drizzling melted butter or even truffle oil over the top elevates the dish further, allowing you to customize your smashed potatoes to suit any palate.
Conclusion for Smashed Potatoes:
Smashed potatoes offer a unique blend of textures and flavors that elevate any meal. With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they stand out as a delightful side dish. Preparing them is simple: boil, smash, season, and bake. Enjoy experimenting with various toppings to create your perfect version of smashed potatoes. Whether served at family dinners or holiday feasts, these tasty morsels will surely impress your guests every time.
Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together crispy edges and fluffy interiors for a delightful experience. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make potatoes are seasoned with fresh herbs and olive oil, creating an irresistible side dish that complements a variety of meals. Enjoy them at family gatherings or cozy dinners, and watch as they quickly become a favorite among guests.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs small Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Place Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and boil until fork-tender (15-20 minutes).
- Drain and Cool: Drain the potatoes in a colander and let cool for about 5 minutes.
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Smash the Potatoes: Arrange each potato on the baking sheet and gently smash them to about half an inch thick.
- Season and Drizzle: Drizzle olive oil over each potato, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Bake Until Crispy: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 smashed potato (100g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
