Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish: Crispy Smashed Potatoes! They’re the perfect blend of fluffy potato goodness on the inside and a gloriously crispy exterior that just begs to be savored. I remember the first time I made them for a family dinner; everyone was raving about how delicious they were! You know that satisfying crunch when you bite into one? It’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re so versatile—you can dress them up with herbs, spices, or even cheese! Trust me, once you’ve tasted these crispy delights, they’ll quickly become your go-to side dish for any meal. They’re easy to whip up and absolutely packed with flavor. Let’s dive into how to make these little wonders at home!

Ingredients List

2 pounds baby potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their tender texture and quick cooking time. They’re the perfect size for smashing!
1/4 cup olive oil: This golden goodness not only adds flavor but helps achieve that irresistible crispy crust.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a hint of savory goodness that elevates the flavor profile of the potatoes—it’s a must!
1 teaspoon salt: To bring out all those delicious flavors. You can adjust this to your taste, of course!
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add a little kick without overpowering the potatoes.
Fresh herbs for garnish: I love using parsley or chives for that fresh finish. It not only looks great but adds a burst of flavor!

How to Prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these Crispy Smashed Potatoes! I promise, it’s easier than you think and oh-so-rewarding!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is key to getting that nice crispiness we all love!
While the oven is warming up, grab your baby potatoes and toss them into a large pot of salted water. Boil them until they’re tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes. You want them just soft enough to smash, so keep an eye on them!
Once they’re ready, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. You don’t want to burn your fingers when smashing!
Next, place the cooled potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (this makes cleanup a breeze!). Now, here’s the fun part: gently smash each potato with a fork or the bottom of a glass until they’re flattened but not completely falling apart. Aim for a thickness of about half an inch!
Drizzle that lovely olive oil over the smashed potatoes, making sure to coat them well for that crispy finish. You can even use a brush if you want to get fancy!
Now sprinkle on the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavor magic happens!
Finally, pop those beauties in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Oh, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!
Once they’re out of the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and you’re ready to serve these deliciously crispy gems!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
A delightful contrast of fluffy insides and crispy edges that everyone will adore.
Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Versatile flavor options; you can easily customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as good, making them a great make-ahead side dish.

Tips for Success

To make your Crispy Smashed Potatoes absolutely perfect, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips for you! First, choose uniform-sized baby potatoes; this ensures even cooking, so you won’t have some mushy and some undercooked. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste—if you love garlic, add more garlic powder, or sprinkle in some paprika for a smoky twist!

Also, remember to let the potatoes cool slightly after boiling; this helps them hold their shape when you smash them. And here’s a little secret: if you want extra crispiness, after drizzling the olive oil, give them a gentle toss on the baking sheet to ensure every nook and cranny is coated. Finally, keep an eye on them in the oven; every oven is different, so check for that golden-brown perfection around the 25-minute mark! Enjoy your crispy creations!

Variations

Get creative with your Crispy Smashed Potatoes! If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar over the top before baking for a gooey, indulgent twist. Want a flavor boost? Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the olive oil for an aromatic kick. For a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. You can even switch up the garlic powder for onion powder or add a squeeze of lemon juice after baking for a zesty finish. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting with flavors that you love!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying Crispy Smashed Potatoes, you’ll be pleased to know they can fit nicely into a balanced diet! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one serving:

Calories: 200
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 1g

These little gems not only deliver on flavor but also provide a satisfying side that won’t weigh you down. Perfect for pairing with your favorite protein or as a cozy addition to your meal! Enjoy every crispy bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to a delicious and wholesome option.

FAQ Section

Can I use larger potatoes? Absolutely! While baby potatoes are my favorite for that perfect size and texture, you can use larger potatoes. Just cut them into smaller pieces before boiling to ensure they cook evenly.

How do I store leftovers? If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven for that crispy texture again!

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the smashed potatoes ahead of time! Just boil and smash them, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, drizzle with oil and season, then bake as directed.

What if I don’t have garlic powder? No worries at all! You can substitute it with fresh minced garlic—just be careful not to burn it in the oven. You could also try onion powder or skip it altogether for a simpler flavor.

Are Crispy Smashed Potatoes vegan? Yes, they are! With just potatoes and plant-based ingredients, they fit perfectly into a vegan diet. Just be sure to check any added toppings you might use!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your Crispy Smashed Potatoes ready to go, let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy them! They make a fantastic side dish for roasted chicken or grilled steak, adding a delightful crunch to your meal. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or some sautéed green beans for a perfect balance. And don’t forget about pairing them with a zesty dipping sauce like garlic aioli or tangy ranch dressing—trust me, it’s a match made in heaven! These potatoes are versatile enough to complement any main dish, making your meal unforgettable.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy

Author: CakesLouna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a delicious side dish that combines the fluffiness of potatoes with a crispy exterior.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds baby potatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and gently smash each one with a fork.
Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes.
Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

Use small potatoes for even cooking.
Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Serve immediately for the best texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 200
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Crispy Smashed Potatoes, Potato Side Dish, Easy Potatoes

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