Have you ever experienced the joy of breaking into a perfectly crispy smashed potato? The crunch gives way to a fluffy interior that melts in your mouth, and the aromatic herbs elevate this simple dish to new heights. Crispy smashed potatoes are not just a side; they are a celebration of flavor and texture that can turn an ordinary meal into a feast.
Picture this: golden-brown potatoes, crackling with every bite while herbs dance on your palate with each savory morsel. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these crispy delights will steal the spotlight on your table. With their irresistible combination of crunch and fluffiness, they’re perfect for any occasion—be it weeknight meals or festive celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Texture: These potatoes deliver an addictive crunch that contrasts beautifully with their soft insides. By smashing them before roasting, you create more surface area for browning, ensuring each bite is packed with satisfying crispiness.
Flavorful Seasonings: Enhanced by olive oil and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, these smashed potatoes absorb flavors beautifully. The result is a harmonious blend of savory notes that makes them irresistible.
Versatile Side Dish: Crispy smashed potatoes pair well with various main courses—from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. Their adaptability means you can enjoy them at any meal without worrying about flavor mismatches.
Easy Preparation: Making crispy smashed potatoes is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. They are perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a simple yet impressive side dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baby Potatoes: Choose small, waxy varieties for the best texture; they hold their shape well when cooked.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it enhances flavor while helping achieve crispiness.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme work wonderfully; chop them finely to release their essential oils.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously; they enhance the natural flavors of the potatoes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature ensures that your potatoes will become perfectly crispy during roasting.
Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and scrub about two pounds of baby potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot filled with salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender but not mushy.
Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Once cooked, drain the potatoes well and let them sit for about five minutes in the pot. This allows excess moisture to evaporate—crucial for achieving that desired crunch.
Smashed Technique: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the boiled potatoes evenly spaced apart. Use a sturdy spatula or fork to gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still intact.
Season Generously: Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs. Toss gently to ensure even coating and maximize flavor absorption.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent burning.
Transfer to plates and serve hot as an irresistible side dish!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Selecting Potatoes Wisely: Opting for small waxy varieties like baby Yukon Golds ensures a creamy texture after cooking while maintaining shape during smashing.
Achieving Extra Crispiness: For even crispier results, allow your smashed potatoes to cool slightly after boiling before smashing them; this helps reduce moisture content further.
Herb Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill instead of rosemary or thyme; each brings its unique flavor profile that can enhance your dish’s taste.
Baking Sheet Matters: Using a heavy-duty baking sheet promotes better heat distribution during cooking; avoid overcrowding it as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (though unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven for optimal crispness when enjoying again.
Mistakes to avoid
Not Boiling the Potatoes Enough
One common mistake when making crispy smashed potatoes is not boiling them long enough. If you undercook the potatoes, they won’t be soft enough to smash properly. Aim for boiling them for about 15-20 minutes until fork tender. This ensures that they have the right texture for smashing and absorbing flavors later. Overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes, so keep an eye on them and test for doneness with a fork.
Skipping the Chilling Step
Many people overlook the importance of chilling their smashed potatoes before roasting. After boiling and smashing, let the potatoes cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the potatoes firm up, leading to a crispier exterior when they hit the hot oven later. Chilling also allows flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of your crispy smashed potatoes.
Not Using Enough Oil
Using too little oil can result in dry and lackluster crispy smashed potatoes. Ensure you generously coat each smashed potato with olive oil or melted butter before roasting. Aim for at least 1-2 tablespoons per pound of potatoes. The oil helps achieve that desired golden crust while preventing sticking to the baking sheet. A well-oiled surface contributes significantly to the crunchiness and flavor your dish will have.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet
Overcrowding your baking sheet is a surefire way to end up with soggy crispy smashed potatoes. When you place too many on one tray, they steam instead of roast, hindering their ability to get crispy. To avoid this mistake, arrange your smashed potatoes in a single layer with some space between them. If necessary, use two baking sheets or cook in batches to ensure they roast evenly and achieve that perfect crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Crispy Smashed Potatoes recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats. Serve them alongside juicy steak or tender chicken for a hearty meal. The crispy texture and creamy interior of the potatoes complement the protein beautifully, adding flavor and satisfaction to your dinner plate.
These potatoes also make an excellent side for roasted vegetables. The contrast between the crispy smashed potatoes and the tender, caramelized veggies enhances the overall taste experience. Consider serving them with a seasonal vegetable medley for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment.
For a lighter option, pair your Crispy Smashed Potatoes with a fresh salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the potatoes. This combination is perfect for a summer meal or any occasion where you want something light yet fulfilling.
Finally, serve these crispy delights as part of a brunch spread. They can be enjoyed alongside eggs Benedict or avocado toast, offering guests a delightful crunch that complements other brunch favorites. These potatoes will surely impress your friends and family at any gathering.
FAQs
What are Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are small, whole potatoes that are boiled until tender, then smashed flat and roasted until golden brown and crispy. This dish combines the fluffy interior of the potato with a crunchy exterior, creating an irresistible texture that enhances any meal.
Can I prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes in advance. Boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before roasting. When ready to serve, simply toss them in oil and roast until crispy for a quick and easy side dish.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or baby potatoes are ideal for making Crispy Smashed Potatoes. These varieties have a buttery flavor and creamy texture that enhance the dish’s overall taste. Their size allows for even cooking while providing enough surface area for crispiness when smashed.
How can I add flavor to Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
To elevate the flavor of your Crispy Smashed Potatoes, consider adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme before roasting. You can also sprinkle garlic powder or onion powder on top for an extra kick. Topping them with grated cheese or fresh herbs after baking adds even more deliciousness.
Conclusion
Crispy Smashed Potatoes offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that can elevate any meal. By boiling small potatoes until tender and then smashing them before roasting, you achieve a perfect balance between crunchiness on the outside and fluffiness on the inside. These versatile potatoes pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or even as part of a brunch spread. Preparing them in advance makes mealtime easier without compromising taste. Experimenting with different seasonings will allow you to customize this dish to suit your palate perfectly. Enjoy these scrumptious bites at your next gathering or family dinner!
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish that combines a crunchy exterior with a fluffy interior, perfect for any meal. This delightful recipe transforms humble baby potatoes into a flavorful sensation that is sure to impress your family and friends. After boiling the potatoes until tender, they are smashed and roasted to achieve an irresistible golden-brown crust, enhanced with olive oil and aromatic herbs like rosemary or thyme. Whether served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads, these crispy delights add texture and flavor to any plate. Plus, their straightforward preparation makes them ideal for cooks of all skill levels. Get ready to enjoy a sensational dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Boil potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and let sit for 5 minutes to evaporate moisture.
- Arrange on a baking sheet and smash each potato gently.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
