Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Once these crispy smashed potatoes come out of the oven, the aromas wafting through the kitchen are absolutely mouthwatering. The edges are beautifully golden and crispy, while the insides remain soft and creamy. As you take your first bite, you’re met with a delightful crunch followed by a burst of savory flavor from the seasonings.

I remember the first time I made these potatoes for a small gathering of friends. The plate was practically licked clean within minutes, with everyone raving about the crispy texture and how addictive they were. Since then, it’s been a staple at gatherings, often requested by friends who just can’t get enough.

The versatility of crispy smashed potatoes is another reason why they’re a favorite in my kitchen. You can customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences – whether it’s a classic garlic and herb blend or something with a bit of a spicy kick. They work wonderfully as a side dish for any meal or even as a standalone snack for those moments when you’re craving something comforting and satisfying.

One of the best parts about making these potatoes is the smashing part itself. There’s something oddly therapeutic about gently pressing down on each potato with a fork or potato masher, knowing that you’re creating the perfect canvas for crispy goodness. It’s a great way to release any pent-up stress or frustrations – just be careful not to get too carried away and turn them into mashed potatoes!

So, the next time you’re looking to elevate your potato game, give these crispy smashed potatoes a try. Whether you’re serving them up for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they’re sure to be a hit. Get ready to enjoy the crispy edges, fluffy centers, and burst of flavors that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser.

Key Ingredients in Crispy Smashed Potatoes

To create the perfect batch of crispy smashed potatoes, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that irresistible combination of crispy edges and fluffy centers, infused with delicious flavors.

• Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes are ideal for smashing as they cook quickly and evenly. Their buttery texture and thin skin help create a perfect contrast between crispy outsides and tender insides.
• Olive Oil: The olive oil not only acts as a flavorful agent but also helps crisp up the exterior of the potatoes during the roasting process. It adds a rich and slightly fruity taste that complements the earthy flavors of the potatoes.
• Salt and Black Pepper: These classic seasonings are essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the potatoes while adding a balanced level of seasoning to each bite. Salt brings out the potato’s innate sweetness, while black pepper adds a subtle heat that pairs well with the other spices.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the potatoes with a robust and aromatic flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level. It adds a savory depth that enhances the overall taste profile of the smashed potatoes.
• Paprika: This spice brings a sweet and smoky element to the dish, imparting a beautiful reddish hue to the potatoes. It adds a hint of warmth without overwhelming the other flavors, creating a well-rounded taste.
• Dried Thyme and Rosemary: These herbs contribute a fragrant and earthy aroma to the smashed potatoes. Thyme offers a subtle minty and floral note, while rosemary adds a pine-like flavor that complements the potatoes’ earthiness. Together, they provide a harmonious herbaceous essence to the dish.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Smashed Potatoes

1. Herb-Infused Sour Cream Dip: Elevate the already irresistible flavors of crispy smashed potatoes by serving them with a tangy and herb-infused sour cream dip. Combine sour cream with a mix of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, and dill, along with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. The cool and creamy dip pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior and fluffy interior of the potatoes, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

2. Cheese and Bacon Toppings: For a decadent twist, take your crispy smashed potatoes to the next level by adding a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon crumbles on top. Return the loaded potatoes to the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese and allow the flavors to meld together. The combination of gooey cheese, savory bacon, and crispy potatoes is sure to be a crowd favorite at any gathering or weeknight dinner.

3. Fresh Herb Garnish: Add a pop of color and freshness to your crispy smashed potatoes by finishing them off with a generous sprinkling of freshly chopped herbs. Try a mix of parsley, chives, and a touch of fresh thyme to brighten up the dish and add a burst of herbaceous flavor. The vibrant herbs not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and crispy potatoes, making each bite a delightful experience.

How to Store Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Once you’ve savored every crispy and flavorful bite of these irresistible smashed potatoes, you might find yourself wondering how to store any leftovers (if there are any!). To keep these delightful spuds as fresh and delicious as possible, there are a few easy storing methods you can follow.

One simple way to store leftover crispy smashed potatoes is by placing them in an airtight container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the potatoes without crushing them. You can refrigerate the potatoes for up to 3-4 days using this method. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven to help recapture that crispy texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing your leftover crispy smashed potatoes. To freeze them, arrange the cooled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they’re firm. Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen crispy smashed potatoes can last for about 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven until heated through, allowing the edges to crisp up once again.

If you’re looking to maintain the optimal crispiness of these smashed potatoes, the best way is to refrigerate them and then reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. While the microwave might soften the crispy edges, a quick bake in the oven at a high temperature will help restore their crunchiness. This method ensures that each bite of reheated crispy smashed potatoes remains just as delightful as the first time you enjoyed them.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve just unlocked the secret recipe to creating the most irresistible crispy smashed potatoes! With the perfect balance of crispy edges, fluffy centers, and flavorful seasonings, these smashed potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends or simply craving a comforting snack, these crispy smashed potatoes are a versatile and delicious option that never fails to impress. With a few simple steps and key ingredients, you can achieve potato perfection every time.

Don’t forget to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences and get creative with different serving suggestions. Whether you top them with a herb-infused sour cream dip, cheese and bacon, or a fresh herb garnish, the possibilities are endless for taking these smashed potatoes to the next level.

If you ever find yourself with leftovers (though that’s a rare occurrence with these tasty spuds), remember the storing tips provided to keep them fresh and restore their crispiness when reheating. Whether you choose to refrigerate or freeze the potatoes, a quick bake in the oven will have them tasting as delicious as when they first came out of the oven.

Feel free to print this article and save it for future reference, or share it with friends who would appreciate a good potato recipe. If you have any questions, feedback, or want to share your experience making these crispy smashed potatoes, drop a comment below. I’d love to hear how your potato adventures turn out!

Happy smashing and savoring those crispy, flavorful bites!

Print Recipe

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Author: Emily Roberts Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Calories: 220

Description

Imagine a plate of golden-brown Crispy Smashed Potatoes, each bite offering a perfect balance of crispy skin and fluffy interior. Seasoned to perfection with herbs and garlic, these addictive potatoes are a delicious blend of crunchy and creamy. You won't be able to resist reaching for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 pounds baby potatoes

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Salt to taste

• Black pepper to taste

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water.
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
4. Drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes.
5. Place a potato on a cutting board and gently press down on it with a fork to smash it, then repeat with the rest of the potatoes.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
7. Place the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush the seasoned oil mixture over each smashed potato, making sure to coat them evenly.
9. Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
10. Serve the crispy smashed potatoes hot as a delicious side dish. Enjoy!

Note

• You can use a potato masher instead of a fork to smash the potatoes for a different texture.
• Feel free to customize the seasoning blend with your favorite herbs and spices.
• For extra crispiness, flip the potatoes halfway through the baking time.
• These potatoes are delicious when served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes recipe, easy smashed potatoes, smashed potatoes with garlic butter, oven-baked smashed potatoes, crispy smashed baby potatoes