Smashed Potatoes

Smashed Potatoes are a simple, delicious, and comforting side dish that pairs well with just about anything. Whether you’re serving them alongside a roast chicken, steak, or even just enjoying them on their own, these potatoes are sure to please everyone at the table. With their crispy edges and creamy centers, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds: texture and flavor. The secret to perfect smashed potatoes is boiling them until tender, then smashing them slightly before roasting with a bit of butter and olive oil for a golden, crispy finish. The result is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that feels both rustic and refined.

Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or holiday gatherings, Smashed Potatoes are versatile and endlessly customizable. You can top them with anything from cheese to sour cream to bacon bits, or keep them simple with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This recipe also works well with any type of potato, whether you prefer small baby potatoes or larger medium ones, making it an adaptable dish that can fit any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Creamy Texture

The combination of soft, tender potatoes with crispy edges gives you the perfect balance of textures in every bite.

2. Quick and Easy

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, Smashed Potatoes are easy to prepare, making them perfect for a quick dinner side or an easy weekend dish.

3. Versatile

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

4. Minimal Ingredients

The recipe calls for just a few basic ingredients, yet the flavor is anything but basic. It’s simple, but delicious.

5. Great for Any Meal

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special holiday meal, Smashed Potatoes are the perfect addition to any menu.

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Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• Small or medium potatoes (700g / 1.4 lb small potatoes or 1 – 1.2kg / 2 – 2.4lb medium potatoes)
• Salt (for boiling)

For Cooking:

• 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, for garnish)

Variations

• Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Add shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan to the potatoes right before smashing for a cheesy twist.
• Garlic Smashed Potatoes: Mix minced garlic or garlic powder into the butter before drizzling it over the potatoes for an added flavor boost.
• Bacon Smashed Potatoes: Top with crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
• Herb Smashed Potatoes: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to change up the flavor profile.
• Vegan Smashed Potatoes: Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil for a vegan-friendly version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the potatoes (if you prefer, you can leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor). Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the potatoes cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting.

Step 3: Drain and Smash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Using a fork or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato, pressing down just enough to slightly flatten them while keeping them intact. Be careful not to crush them completely.

Step 4: Add Butter and Olive Oil

Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil over the smashed potatoes, making sure each one is coated evenly. Sprinkle the potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Roast the Potatoes

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and garnish with finely chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Uniform Potatoes: If you’re using medium-sized potatoes, try to select ones that are roughly the same size for even cooking. If you’re using small potatoes, you can skip peeling them for a more rustic, flavorful dish.
• Don’t Over-Smash: Make sure to smash the potatoes gently. You want them to stay intact while creating a crispy edge, but not turn into mashed potatoes.
• Crispy Edges: For extra crispy edges, make sure to drizzle the melted butter and olive oil evenly over the potatoes and don’t overcrowd them on the baking sheet.
• Add Extra Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings such as sour cream, cheese, chives, or crumbled bacon for a personalized touch.

How to Serve

• Main Course Side Dish: Serve Smashed Potatoes as a side dish to accompany your favorite protein, like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-fried fish.
• Comfort Food: These potatoes also make for a great comfort food dish, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.
• Appetizer: Smashed Potatoes can be served as a delicious appetizer. Simply top them with cheese or sour cream and serve them as finger food.
• Breakfast Side: Serve them alongside eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover smashed potatoes. Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat smashed potatoes, you can warm them in the microwave or for a better texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy again.

FAQs

Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use larger potatoes, but you’ll need to adjust the boiling time. Make sure the potatoes are tender before smashing them.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

No, you don’t have to peel the potatoes. The skins add extra texture and flavor, but if you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to peel them.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes in advance. Simply boil and smash the potatoes, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to roast them. When ready to serve, drizzle with butter and oil and roast in the oven.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version. You can also use a combination of both for the best of both worlds.

Can I make these Smashed Potatoes with sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter version. The process and seasonings remain the same.

What’s the best potato for this recipe?

Small or medium-sized waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for smashing as they hold their shape well when cooked.

How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?

To get crispy edges, be sure to drizzle the potatoes with enough butter and olive oil, and make sure they’re spaced out evenly on the baking sheet to allow air to circulate.

How many people does this recipe serve?

This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.

Can I add cheese to the smashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Adding cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, before roasting will give your Smashed Potatoes a rich and flavorful twist.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make these in an air fryer. After smashing the potatoes, place them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until crispy.

Conclusion

Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish, offering a perfect balance of crispy edges and creamy, soft centers. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to fit any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side to your favorite protein, topping them with cheese, or adding a few crispy bacon bits, Smashed Potatoes are sure to be a hit at the table. Try this simple yet flavorful recipe today!

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