If you’re craving a dish that marries comfort with a satisfying crunch, you’ve got to try this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe. These little golden gems are perfectly tender on the inside and beautifully crispy on the outside, thanks to a simple process that transforms humble baby potatoes into a crowd-pleasing sensation. Each bite bursts with flavor from garlic, smoked paprika, and a touch of Parmesan, making this recipe an absolute game-changer for your usual potato routine. Whether as a side or a snack, these smashed potatoes bring warmth and joy to the table every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping things simple is the secret here, with ingredients that combine to create that crave-worthy texture and rich flavor. Each component plays a role, from the creamy baby potatoes to the seasoning that gives these bites their irresistible personality.
- 1½ lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes): Small size helps them cook evenly and smash perfectly.
- 2 tbsp salt (for boiling water): Essential for seasoning the potatoes right from the start.
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter: Adds richness and helps develop that golden, crispy crust.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the potatoes.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional): Adds a gentle smokiness for a subtle flavor twist.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances and enhances the overall taste.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A bright, fresh pop of color and flavor to finish.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Provides a nutty, savory kick that melts slightly on top.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt seasons the potatoes from the inside out, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Add your baby potatoes and cook them until they’re fork-tender, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it softens the potatoes just right for smashing, without falling apart.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the potatoes on a greased baking sheet, spaced evenly to allow for crisping. Using a fork or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it’s about half an inch thick. This creates more surface area to crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 3: Season & Roast
Mix together your olive oil or melted butter with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this fragrant mixture over your smashed potatoes, making sure each one is well-coated. Roast in the hot oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through to get an even golden crunch on both sides. The smoky aroma filling your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the crispy potatoes for a final burst of flavor and color. Serve them warm, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or just straight up—they’re fantastic either way and guaranteed to disappear fast.
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley brighten up the dish and add a lovely contrast to the crispy edges. Parmesan cheese melts over the top, giving a savory, slightly salty finish that elevates each bite. For an extra treat, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of garlic aioli works wonders.
Side Dishes
Crispy smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with meats like roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or even fish. They also complement vegetarian mains such as sautéed mushrooms or a hearty salad, making meals feel more complete without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these crispy delights on a rustic wooden board with ramekins of different dipping sauces—think spicy ketchup, tangy mustard, or cool ranch. Another fun idea is to top them with crumbled bacon and chives for a loaded variation that’s perfect for parties or family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s rare), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure the potatoes have cooled completely before sealing to keep that crispness as much as possible.
Freezing
While crispy smashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Arrange the cooled potatoes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months but expect a slight change in texture upon reheating.
Reheating
To revive their signature crispiness, reheat the potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soft and soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut larger potatoes into small chunks or slices and adjust boiling time accordingly. Baby potatoes are preferred because they hold their shape and smash easily without getting mushy.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can skip it or substitute with regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat. The smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky flavor but the recipe shines even without it.
Is olive oil or butter better for roasting?
Both work wonderfully—olive oil is lighter and creates a crispier texture, while butter adds richness and a deeper flavor. Feel free to choose based on your taste preference or dietary needs.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply use olive oil instead of butter and omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How do I make sure my potatoes get super crispy?
The key is proper smashing to increase surface area and roasting at a high temperature with enough oil. Also, flipping halfway through ensures even crisping. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet so air can circulate well around the potatoes.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a keeper that I promise will bring joy to your home kitchen. It’s an easy way to upgrade simple potatoes into a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. So next time you want something hearty, comforting, and perfectly crispy, give this recipe a whirl—you won’t regret it!
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Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish featuring tender boiled baby potatoes smashed to a perfect thickness, seasoned with flavorful spices, and roasted until golden and crispy. This easy-to-make recipe uses simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create a deliciously crunchy exterior with a soft interior. Garnished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese, these potatoes are perfect for any meal and pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Boiling
- 1½ lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 2 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
Seasoning and Roasting
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons of salt. Add the baby potatoes and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly to make handling easier.
- Smash the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the cooled potatoes on a greased baking sheet. Using a fork or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it is flattened to about half an inch thickness, being careful not to break them apart.
- Season & Roast: In a small bowl, combine olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the smashed potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through cooking, until they achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible side dish.
Notes
- Use baby potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Be gentle when smashing to avoid breaking the potatoes apart completely.
- Flipping halfway through roasting ensures even crispiness on both sides.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory touch.
- These potatoes can be served with aioli, ketchup, or any dipping sauce of your choice.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
