If you have a craving for something irresistibly crunchy on the outside yet soft and fluffy inside, this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These little golden nuggets bring together the mellow creaminess of baby potatoes with a perfectly crisp crust that makes every bite a delightful texture party. This recipe is simple but packs a punch, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleasing side dish that steals the spotlight at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this dish. You don’t need anything fancy; just simple staples that work perfectly together to maximize flavor and texture in the Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
- 1½ lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes): These small potatoes cook quickly and have the ideal creamy texture inside.
- 2 tbsp salt (for boiling water): Enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor as they cook through.
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that coveted crispy crunch.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory depth without overpowering the potatoes.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smoky aroma and a beautiful color tint.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the seasoning for every bite.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle kick that brightens the overall flavor.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Offers a fresh, vibrant contrast and gorgeous color.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Melts on top for an extra layer of savory goodness and cheesiness.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start strong by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil and adding the salt. The salt seasons the potatoes right from the start and enhances their earthy flavor. Add your baby potatoes to the boiling water and cook them until they’re fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures the potatoes are soft enough to smash without falling apart. Once cooked, drain them well and let them cool just enough to handle comfortably.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to a sizzling 425°F (220°C)—this high heat is necessary for crispiness! Lightly grease a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then arrange your boiled potatoes in a single layer. Now for the fun part: use a fork or the base of a glass to gently press down on each potato until it’s flattened to about half an inch thick. This “smashing” creates a larger surface area for all that delicious crispness to form during roasting. It’s like art you can eat.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Prepare a quick seasoning mix by combining olive oil or melted butter with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this flavorful potion evenly over the smashed potatoes, making sure each one gets coated luxuriously. Pop the tray into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through. Watch eagerly as they transform into golden, crispy delights with edges that crunch just right. The aroma filling your kitchen here is straight-up irresistible.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once your potatoes have reached that perfect golden-brown status, take them out of the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling indulgent, scatter some grated Parmesan cheese on top to melt slightly from the residual heat, adding a rich, savory touch that pairs beautifully with the smoky paprika. Serve these beauties warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce or as a standout side dish. You’ll want to keep this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe on your regular rotation!
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds not only a burst of color but also a hint of bright herbaceousness that cuts through the richness. Parmesan cheese melted on top offers a delightful salty contrast and extra umami. For a little extra flair, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of truffle oil for an elevated touch.
Side Dishes
Because these potatoes are so versatile, they pair wonderfully with countless dishes. Think grilled chicken, pan-seared steak, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh, crisp salad. They add that perfect crunchy yet tender component to any meal, making them an easy favorite when planning a family dinner or holiday feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party idea, serve your Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or creamy ranch. You can also pile them on a platter with dollops of sour cream and chives for a loaded potato twist that impresses guests with minimal effort. Presentation matters and these potatoes respond beautifully to a bit of creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftover crispy smashed potatoes? No worries. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep their texture surprisingly well, but it’s best to enjoy them within this timeframe for maximum freshness.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, flash freeze the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a crispy snack, just reheat straight from frozen and enjoy that almost-like-fresh crunch.
Reheating
To revive the crispiness when reheating, the oven or an air fryer are your best options. Heat at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through until warmed and crispy again. Avoid microwaves if you want to keep that perfect texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut the regular potatoes into smaller, evenly sized chunks before boiling and smashing. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for their creamy texture, but you can experiment based on what’s available.
Is it necessary to boil the potatoes first?
Yes, boiling softens the potatoes inside, making them easy to smash and ensuring that each bite ends up tender while the outside crisps up delightfully in the oven.
What can I use instead of olive oil?
Melted butter is a fantastic substitute that adds a rich flavor. You can also experiment with avocado oil or even duck fat for a luxurious twist.
How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?
The key is high oven heat and making sure the potatoes are well coated with oil or butter. Also, flipping them halfway through cooking helps all sides crisp evenly.
Can I prepare this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the Parmesan cheese or switch to a plant-based cheese alternative. The garlic and smoked paprika still provide amazing flavor without any dairy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe that feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. It’s a perfect dish to bake, share, and savor with people you love. Whether you’re making a casual dinner or need a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, these potatoes will not disappoint. Give them a try, and watch them quickly become one of your favorite go-to sides.
Print
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on classic roasted potatoes, featuring tender boiled baby potatoes smashed and roasted to golden perfection with a flavorful garlic and smoked paprika seasoning. This easy-to-make side dish is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for serving with dips or as a complement to any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1½ lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 2 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
Seasoning & Topping
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 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. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle in the next step.
- Smash the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. Place the boiled potatoes on the sheet and use a fork or the bottom of a glass to gently press each potato down until it is flattened to about half an inch thick, being careful not to break them apart completely.
- Season & Roast: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil or melted butter with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the smashed potatoes. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they become crispy and golden on both sides.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if using. Serve the crispy smashed potatoes warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce or as a tasty side dish.
Notes
- Use baby potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- For extra crispiness, flip the potatoes halfway during roasting to ensure even browning.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice smoky flavor; you can substitute with regular paprika if preferred.
- Grated Parmesan adds a savory touch but can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
- Serve with sour cream, ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce for extra taste.
