Oh, let me tell you, crispy smashed potatoes are like little bites of heaven! There’s just something magical about those tender, fluffy centers wrapped in a golden, crunchy exterior. I love serving them as a side dish because they pair perfectly with just about anything—grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even a cozy soup. Plus, they’re so easy to make! You can whip them up in no time, and they always impress guests with their delightful texture and flavor. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making these crispy gems over and over again. They’re not just a side; they’re the star of the show!
Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful crispy smashed potatoes. I always make sure to grab the freshest ingredients because they really make a difference in flavor!
Essential Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes – These little guys are perfect because they cook quickly and have a creamy texture inside, making them ideal for smashing.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – This adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden brown color when baking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A must for that savory flavor that elevates the potatoes to another level.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – This adds a wonderful depth and sweetness to the seasoning blend.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning is key! Adjust these to your liking for the best flavor.
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional) – I love using fresh parsley or chives! They add a pop of color and a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.
How to Prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these crispy smashed potatoes! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll love how easy it is to get that perfect crunch.
Preheating and Boiling
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This is super important for getting that crispy exterior! While the oven heats up, grab a pot and fill it with water, adding a generous pinch of salt. Toss in your baby potatoes and bring it to a boil. Let them cook for about 15-20 minutes until they’re fork-tender. You want them soft enough to smash, but not falling apart!
Smashing and Seasoning
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and let them cool for just a minute. Now comes the fun part—place each potato on a baking sheet and gently smash them down with a fork. You don’t want to obliterate them; just a nice press to create those rustic edges that will crisp up beautifully. Drizzle the olive oil over each smashed potato and sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning is where the magic happens!
Baking to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let those potatoes bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! For extra crispiness, I like to flip the potatoes halfway through baking—this ensures every side gets that golden goodness! When they come out of the oven, they should be irresistibly crispy and ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
To take your crispy smashed potatoes to the next level, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip the boiling step—this is essential for achieving that tender inside. For extra crunch, try flipping the potatoes halfway through baking; trust me, it makes a world of difference! You can also experiment with different seasonings—smoked paprika or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add a fun twist. And remember, serving them fresh out of the oven is key; they’ll lose that glorious crunch if they sit too long! Enjoy the crispy goodness!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note about the nutritional information: it can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I strive to provide accurate estimates, these numbers may not be precise for every version of crispy smashed potatoes. Always check the labels on your ingredients for the most accurate information, and feel free to adjust based on your preferences and dietary needs!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While I love using baby potatoes for their creamy texture, you can experiment with other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and type of potato you choose. As long as they’re tender enough to smash, you’re good to go!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any crispy smashed potatoes left (which is rare in my house!), just let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just remember, they’re best enjoyed right out of the oven, so reheating may not bring back that glorious crunch!
Can I make these potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes ahead of time! Boil them and smash them, then store them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just season them and pop them in the oven. They’ll still be delicious, but be sure to give them a little extra time to crisp up since they’ll be starting from a cooler temperature.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, where do I even start? These crispy smashed potatoes are not only a breeze to whip up, but they also pack a flavor punch that’s hard to resist! The quick prep time means you can have a delicious side ready in no time. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—serve them alongside grilled meats, toss them in salads, or enjoy them as a snack with your favorite dip. Trust me, once you taste that crunch, you’ll be hooked!
Serving Suggestions
These crispy smashed potatoes are the perfect sidekick to so many dishes! I love serving them alongside juicy grilled chicken, tender steak, or even a hearty veggie burger. They also pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. And for a fun twist, try them with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. The flavor combinations are endless, and they’ll elevate any meal!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For a great side dish, consider pairing these potatoes with honey-glazed carrots for a delightful meal. You can also explore nutritional information about potatoes to learn more about their health benefits.
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Crispy Smashed Potatoes: 7 Steps to Irresistible Crunch
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy smashed potatoes are a delicious side dish that features tender potatoes with a crispy exterior.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Boil the baby 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, onion powder, salt, and pepper on top.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until crispy and golden.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings.
- For extra crispiness, flip the potatoes halfway through baking.
- Best served fresh out of the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Crispy Smashed Potatoes