Welcome to your new favorite side dish! These crispy smashed potatoes are truly irresistible. Imagine a perfect crunch with every bite, revealing a tender, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. This incredibly easy and versatile recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Get ready to elevate your potato game and discover the magic of homemade smashed potatoes!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Smashed Potatoes
You are going to adore these smashed potatoes for so many reasons! They combine simple ingredients with a method that delivers incredible results every time.
- Unmatched Crispiness: The unique smashing technique creates extra surface area, leading to an incredibly satisfying golden-brown crust.
- Tender & Fluffy Interior: Despite their crispy exterior, these potatoes remain wonderfully soft and fluffy on the inside.
- Buttery, Savory Flavor: A simple drizzle of butter and olive oil infuses them with rich, comforting taste.
- Simple Preparation: You only need a few steps to achieve gourmet-level results with minimal fuss.
- Incredibly Versatile: Serve them as a side dish, an appetizer, or even a hearty snack. They’re perfect for both quick weeknights and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 700g / 1.4 lb small potatoes (12 – 14) OR
- 1 – 1.2kg / 2 – 2.4lb medium potatoes (6 – 8)
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling)
- 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 tsp salt (for sprinkling)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Finely chopped parsley, optional garnish
Notes & Substitutions
Understanding the characteristics of different potato types can greatly enhance your culinary results. Choosing the right potato is key for the best crispy smashed potatoes. Waxy varieties like Yukon Gold, Red Bliss, or new potatoes work beautifully as they hold their shape well after boiling and smashing, contributing to that desirable fluffy interior.
The combination of melted butter and olive oil is magic; butter provides rich flavor while olive oil helps achieve maximum crispiness at high temperatures. Feel free to experiment with seasonings after baking; a sprinkle of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder can add another layer of flavor. For an aromatic twist, infuse the boiling water with a sprig of fresh rosemary or bay leaves. You can also press a clove of minced garlic into your smashed potatoes before roasting for a delicious garlic-infused version.
According to America’s Test Kitchen, selecting ideal potato varieties for mashing and roasting can significantly impact the texture and taste of your dish.
Equipment
You don’t need fancy tools to make these fantastic crispy potatoes. Gather these kitchen essentials, and you’ll be ready to go.
- Large pot
- Colander
- Baking sheet
- Potato masher or large fork
- Small bowl (for melted butter/oil)
Instructions
Let’s make some amazing smashed potatoes! Follow these easy steps for perfectly crispy results every time.
- Boil Potatoes: Grab a large pot and fill it with water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring the water to a rolling boil. Carefully add your potatoes. Cook them until they are very soft and fork-tender. Small potatoes typically take around 20 to 25 minutes, while medium ones might need about 30 minutes. It’s perfectly fine if some of the skins split during cooking; this actually helps create more crispy edges. As an alternative, you can steam or microwave them until soft.
- Preheat Oven: While your potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven. Set it to 200°C / 390°F (or 180°C if you have a fan-assisted oven). This ensures your oven is perfectly hot and ready for immediate crisping.
- Initial Steam Dry: Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them in a colander. Let them sit in the colander for about 5 minutes. This crucial step allows excess moisture to evaporate, which is essential for achieving a super crispy exterior on your delicious smashed potatoes.
- Smash Potatoes: Gently transfer the warm, dry potatoes onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a large fork or a potato masher, gently squish each potato flat. Aim to keep them mostly in one piece. Remember, thinner potatoes will result in a crisper texture, while thicker ones will have a fluffier interior. A more nubbly, uneven surface creates more little nooks and crannies for extra crunch!
- Second Steam Dry: Once smashed, leave the potatoes on the baking tray to steam dry again for another 5 minutes or so. This second drying phase is key to drawing out even more moisture, setting them up for ultimate crispiness in the oven.
- Season: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter and olive oil. Drizzle this mixture evenly over all the flattened potatoes on the baking sheet. Then, sprinkle generously with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the flavor beautifully.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45 minutes for small potatoes, or up to 55 minutes for medium potatoes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to reach a deep golden brown color and become wonderfully crispy. Resist the urge to flip them during baking, as this helps them develop a truly golden, crunchy bottom.
- Serve: Once they are perfectly golden and sizzling, remove the crispy smashed potatoes from the oven. Serve them immediately while hot. For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy your flavorful, crunchy masterpiece!
Pro Tips for the Crispiest Smashed Potatoes
Achieving that perfect crisp exterior and fluffy interior is easy with these expert tips.
- Consistent Potato Size: Select potatoes of similar size to ensure they cook evenly. This prevents some from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
- Boil Until Very Soft: Don’t undercook your potatoes. They should be tender enough to almost fall apart when pierced with a fork, making them easy to smash.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give your potatoes space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding traps steam, preventing them from crisping up properly.
- Emphasize Double Steam Drying: The two drying stages are crucial! They remove surface moisture, allowing the oil and butter to make direct contact with the potato for maximum crispiness.
- Butter & Oil Combo: Melted butter adds incredible flavor, while olive oil has a higher smoke point, helping the potatoes get super crispy without burning.
- Avoid Flipping: Once in the oven, let them bake undisturbed. This allows one side to develop a continuous, deep golden crust that is wonderfully crisp.
- Season Generously: Season before and after baking. The salt brings out the potato’s natural flavor, and a final sprinkle of flaky sea salt can enhance the crunch.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
These versatile smashed potatoes are fantastic on their own, but they also shine alongside many dishes or with creative flavor twists.
Serving Ideas
- Main Course Pairing: They make an excellent companion for roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve them with scrambled eggs, an omelet, or as part of a hearty brunch spread.
- Appetizer or Snack: Arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces like sour cream and chive, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Flavor Variations
- Garlic Parmesan: Toss with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese before baking, then a little more cheese once out of the oven.
- Rosemary & Thyme: Sprinkle with fresh or dried rosemary and thyme along with the salt and pepper for an aromatic herbaceous flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter and oil mixture if you like a little heat.
- Loaded Potatoes: Once baked, top these crispy potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, vegetarian bacon bits, and chopped chives. Return to the oven briefly to melt the cheese.
Make Ahead & Storage
You can boil and smash your potatoes a day ahead of time. Store the flattened potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, proceed with drizzling oil and baking as instructed. Leftover cooked smashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 200°C / 390°F for 10-15 minutes until crispy again. An air fryer also works wonders for reheating.
Nutrition Information
Enjoying delicious food can be part of a balanced lifestyle, and these smashed potatoes are a delightful choice. They provide a good source of carbohydrates for energy, along with some fiber and essential vitamins and minerals naturally found in potatoes. This versatile side dish is a wholesome addition to any meal.
For detailed information on the health benefits and nutrient content of potatoes, a reliable resource is available. You can find comprehensive potato nutrition facts provided by the USDA.
| Per serving (approx. 1 potato) | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85 kcal |
| Serving Size | 58 g |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate based on ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best potatoes for smashing?
Waxy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold, Red Bliss, or new potatoes are ideal. They hold their shape well after boiling and contribute to a lovely fluffy interior with a crispy exterior.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, you do not! Leaving the skin on adds extra crispiness, texture, and beneficial fiber. Just make sure to scrub them clean thoroughly before boiling.
Can I make smashed potatoes in an air fryer?
Absolutely! After boiling and smashing, toss them with oil and seasoning. Air fry at 200°C / 390°F for 15-25 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until golden and crispy.
Why aren’t my smashed potatoes getting crispy?
The most common reasons are overcrowding the baking sheet, not drying the potatoes enough after boiling, or not using enough fat (butter and oil). Ensure ample space and thoroughly dry the potatoes twice for the best results.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them on a baking sheet in a 200°C / 390°F oven or an air fryer until they are hot and crispy again.
Conclusion
You now have the secret to creating the ultimate crispy smashed potatoes right in your own kitchen! With their irresistible golden crunch and tender, fluffy centers, these flavorful potatoes are destined to become a household favorite. This recipe proves that simple ingredients and a straightforward method can yield truly spectacular results. Don’t wait to make these incredible smashed potatoes a regular part of your meal rotation. Give them a try tonight, then come back and share your experience with us. Happy smashing!
The Ultimate Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Equipment
- Pot
- Colander
- Baking Tray
- Large Fork or Potato Masher
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 700g / 1.4 lb small potatoes (12 – 14)
- 1 – 1.2kg / 2 – 2.4lb medium potatoes (6 – 8)
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling)
- 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 tsp salt (for sprinkling)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Finely chopped parsley optional garnish
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Bring salted water to a boil and cook potatoes until soft, about 20-30 minutes, or use steaming/microwaving.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F (180°C fan) while the potatoes are cooking.
- Drain the cooked potatoes and let them steam dry in a colander for about 5 minutes.
- Place potatoes on a baking tray and use a fork or masher to gently squish each one, keeping them intact for desired crispiness or fluffiness.
- Leave the smashed potatoes on the tray to steam dry for another 5 minutes to enhance crispiness.
- Drizzle the potatoes with melted butter and olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes until deep golden and crispy, making sure not to flip them during cooking.
- Serve the crispy smashed potatoes hot, optionally garnished with finely chopped parsley if desired.