Smashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a delightful, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious, these Smashed Potatoes are just the ticket! They’re a perfect blend of crispy texture and comforting flavor, making them an absolute favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner at home, these smashed potatoes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip it up quickly after a busy day or serve it alongside your favorite main dish for special occasions. Trust me; everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, even novice cooks can master these tasty potatoes in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike adore the crispy edges and fluffy insides—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Cook the potatoes ahead of time, then smash and roast them just before serving for a stress-free meal.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese creates an irresistible taste that enhances any meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive feast, these smashed potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these lovely smashed potatoes. With just a few staples from your pantry and fridge, you’ll be ready to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby potatoes (such as red potatoes or Yukon Gold)
– 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
– 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
– salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
– cooking spray

Variations

The beauty of smashed potatoes lies in their flexibility! Feel free to play around with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

• Change Up the Cheese: Try using feta or cheddar instead of parmesan for a different twist.
• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for a little kick.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like dill or rosemary for unique flavor profiles.
• Go Vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil and skip the parmesan for a plant-based version that’s just as tasty!

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your baby potatoes and let them cook for about 18-22 minutes until they’re tender. This step is crucial as it sets up the perfect texture for smashing!

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. A hot oven will help achieve that delightful crispiness we all crave when roasting!

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray once your potatoes are ready. This ensures they won’t stick during baking—nobody wants their delicious creation stuck to the pan!

Step 4: Smash Those Potatoes

Drain the cooked potatoes and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Use the bottom of a glass or potato masher to gently flatten each potato. This is where the magic happens; flattening them allows more surface area for crisping up!

Step 5: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix everything together. Drizzling this buttery goodness over your smashed potatoes elevates their flavor profile immensely.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Drizzle your garlic herb butter mixture generously over each smashed potato. Then sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese on top—this will create that beautiful golden crust while baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Crispy

Pop your baking sheet into the oven and let those beauties bake for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.

And there you have it—delicious Smashed Potatoes ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Smashed Potatoes

These smashed potatoes are a delightful treat that everyone will love, and with a few simple tips, you can make them even better!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for baby potatoes like red potatoes or Yukon Gold; they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well after boiling.
• Don’t rush the boiling: Make sure to boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender. This ensures they are soft enough to smash without falling apart completely.
• Use a hot oven: Preheating your oven to 425°F is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and tender.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to customize the garlic and herb butter by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic twist that complements the potatoes beautifully.
• Serve immediately: Smashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re crispy. If you need to hold them, keep them warm in a low oven until serving.

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes not only taste amazing, but they also look stunning on the plate, making them perfect for any occasion. You can serve them as a fun side dish at family dinners, or even as a unique appetizer at gatherings!

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Add a pop of color and mild onion flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery potatoes.
• Shaved parmesan: For an extra touch of richness, add some shaved parmesan on top just before serving.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top for added flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized complements the flavors of smashed potatoes beautifully.
• Grilled Chicken Salad: A light grilled chicken salad with greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty smashed potatoes.
• Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze on Brussels sprouts creates a delicious balance with the savory taste of your smashed potatoes.
• Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing bite next to the warm, crispy potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your smashed potatoes will surely be a hit at every meal! Enjoy creating this delightful dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

These smashed potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious side dishes throughout the week! Whether you’re planning a family dinner or just want to have something ready for a quick lunch, these potatoes fit the bill.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the smashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy your leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Let the potatoes cool before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen smashed potatoes to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
• Place the leftover or frozen smashed potatoes on a baking sheet.
• If they are frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Bake until heated through and crispy, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about smashed potatoes that may help clarify this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of potatoes for smashed potatoes?

Absolutely! While baby red or Yukon Gold potatoes work wonderfully, you can use other varieties like fingerling or even larger potatoes cut into chunks. The key is to ensure they are tender before smashing!

How do I make my smashed potatoes crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispy texture, make sure to flatten your potatoes well and generously drizzle them with butter or oil. Baking at a high temperature also helps create that golden crust you’ll love!

Can smashed potatoes be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare smashed potatoes in advance by boiling and smashing them. Store them in the fridge and roast them fresh when you’re ready to eat.

What should I serve with my smashed potatoes?

Smashed potatoes pair beautifully with various dishes! Consider serving them alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these smashed potatoes! Their unique texture and flavor set them apart from traditional mashed options, making them a special addition to any meal. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavors! Happy cooking!