Smashed Potatoes

These smashed potatoes are a delightful twist on traditional potato dishes, perfect for various occasions. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a festive gathering, these smashed potatoes stand out with their garlicky flavor and buttery goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious side dish that impresses.
• Flavorful Topping: The garlic and herb butter adds a rich taste that elevates the humble potato.
• Versatile Side Dish: These smashed potatoes pair wonderfully with chicken, beef, or turkey.
• Crispy Texture: Baking them after smashing ensures a golden, crispy finish that everyone loves.
• Perfect for Sharing: The fun presentation makes it easy for guests to help themselves.

Tools and Preparation

To make these smashed potatoes, having the right tools will simplify your cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Potato masher or glass
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the baby potatoes evenly until tender.
• Potato masher or glass: Helps flatten the potatoes to achieve that perfect smash for crispiness.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for roasting the smashed potatoes without crowding.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the garlic and herb butter before drizzling it over the potatoes.

Ingredients

These smashed potatoes are baby potatoes that are boiled until tender, then smashed flat, topped with garlic and herb butter, and roasted until crispy and browned. A unique and unexpected potato preparation that always gets rave reviews!

For the Potatoes

• 1 pound baby potatoes (such as red potatoes or Yukon Gold)

For the Topping

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Other

• Cooking spray

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the baby potatoes and cook for 18-22 minutes or until they are tender.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Drain the boiled potatoes and arrange them in a single layer on the pan.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

1. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to carefully flatten each potato.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
2. Stir until well combined.

Step 6: Add Toppings

1. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over each smashed potato.
2. Sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese over all of them.

Step 7: Bake Until Crispy

1. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
2. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your perfectly crispy smashed potatoes as an unforgettable side dish!

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish or as a main attraction, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve smashed potatoes alongside juicy grilled chicken for a satisfying combination. The crispy texture of the potatoes complements the tender meat beautifully.

Topped with Sour Cream

• Add a dollop of sour cream on top of your smashed potatoes for a creamy contrast. This addition makes for a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.

As Part of a Veggie Platter

• Include smashed potatoes on a platter with roasted vegetables. This colorful presentation not only looks appealing but also adds nutritional value to your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish smashed potatoes with fresh herbs like chives or dill. This enhances the visual appeal and adds a burst of fresh flavor.

Pairing with Gravy

• Drizzle some homemade gravy over your smashed potatoes for an indulgent touch. The savory sauce melds well with the crispy edges and fluffy interiors.

How to Perfect Smashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect smashed potatoes requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for an irresistible result.

• Choose the right potatoes: Use waxy varieties like baby red or Yukon Gold for the best texture. They hold their shape well after boiling.
• Don’t skip salting the water: Adding salt to the boiling water enhances the flavor of the potatoes from within, resulting in tastier smashed potatoes.
• Let them cool slightly: After boiling, let your potatoes cool for a few minutes before smashing them. This helps them hold together better during roasting.
• Use enough butter: Generously drizzling melted butter over the smashed potatoes before baking ensures they crisp up nicely while adding rich flavor.
• Bake until crispy: Keep an eye on your potatoes while baking; they should be golden brown and crispy around the edges for the best texture.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings such as cheese, herbs, or spices to customize your smashed potatoes according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes pair wonderfully with many dishes, making them ideal for any meal. Here are some excellent side dish options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal grilled vegetables brings color and nutrients to your plate. Try zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and bright color that balances out the richness of smashed potatoes.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide depth and earthiness, making them a perfect companion.
4. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad offers crisp romaine and creamy dressing that contrasts nicely with warm smashed potatoes.
5. Baked Fish Fillets: Lightly seasoned baked fish complements the flavors of smashed potatoes without overwhelming them.
6. Chicken Stir-Fry: A quick chicken stir-fry adds protein and vibrant vegetables, creating a complete meal when paired with smashed potatoes.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies add an exciting element to your dining experience.
8. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon provides lightness while enhancing the overall meal’s flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making smashed potatoes, a few common errors can impact the final dish’s texture and flavor. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using the wrong potatoes – Not all potatoes are created equal. Opt for baby potatoes like red or Yukon Gold for the best results.
• Overcooking the potatoes – Boiling them too long makes them mushy. Aim for tenderness but be careful not to let them fall apart.
• Skipping the seasoning – A lack of seasoning can lead to bland potatoes. Don’t forget to salt your water and season your butter mixture generously.
• Not preheating the oven – Starting with a cold oven can prevent crispy edges. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
• Rushing the smashing process – Pressing too hard may turn them into puree instead of keeping some texture. Use gentle pressure for the perfect smash.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Smashed Potatoes

• Place cooled smashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Smashed Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop – Sauté in a pan with a little butter or oil until heated and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about smashed potatoes that might help you out!

What are Smashed Potatoes?

Smashed potatoes are boiled baby potatoes that are flattened and then baked until crispy. They have a delightful texture and rich flavor from seasonings.

Can I use different herbs in my Smashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives based on your taste preference.

How do I make Smashed Potatoes vegan?

Replace butter with olive oil or plant-based butter alternatives for delicious vegan smashed potatoes.

What can I serve with Smashed Potatoes?

Smashed potatoes make an excellent side dish alongside grilled chicken, beef, or roasted vegetables.

Final Thoughts

These smashed potatoes are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With options for customization regarding herbs and toppings, they easily fit into any meal plan. Try these crispy delights at your next gathering—they’re sure to impress everyone!