Smashed potatoes are the perfect side dish! They are creamy on the inside and crispy on the outside, giving you that lovely crunch with every bite.
And let’s not forget, they are super easy to make! Just boil, smash, and roast. Trust me, your dinner plate will thank you for this delicious addition!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These little gems are perfect for smashing. They have a creamy texture, but you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if baby potatoes aren’t available. Both will give a smooth taste and hold up well during cooking.
Olive Oil: This is key for flavor and crispiness. If you’re out, try using melted butter or avocado oil — both give a great taste. Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, which is perfect for high-temp roasting.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is unbeatable for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute, though fresh gives a much better taste. Typically, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a wonderful herbaceous note. If you don’t have it, you can use oregano or rosemary. Dried thyme works too, but use half the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty kick. You can skip it for a dairy-free option or try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese. I also love adding a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese for a different taste.
How Can I Ensure My Smashed Potatoes Are Perfectly Crispy?
To achieve that delightful crispy texture when smashing your potatoes, there are some important steps to follow:
- Boil potatoes until fork-tender, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly after draining; this helps them crisp up when baking.
- Smash them gently — you want them flat but not completely broken apart.
- Don’t skimp on the olive oil drizzle; it helps achieve that crispy golden edge.
- Make sure to space the potatoes out on the baking sheet. Crowding them will trap steam and prevent crispiness.
Following these steps will give you perfectly crispy smashed potatoes every time!
How to Make Smashed Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes (or new potatoes)
For the Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes in total. You’ll need around 15-20 minutes for preparation and cooking the potatoes, plus an additional 25-30 minutes for baking them in the oven. It’s a straightforward dish that delivers great flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This will get it nice and hot, perfect for making those crispy smashed potatoes!
2. Boil the Potatoes:
Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place them in a pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt, then bring the water to a boil. Let the potatoes cook until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. This means you should be able to easily poke them with a fork!
3. Smash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them cool for a minute so you can handle them. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place the cooked potatoes and gently smash each one using a potato masher or a fork. They should be flattened but still hold their shape!
4. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended. Then, drizzle this flavorful mixture over the smashed potatoes, making sure every potato gets coated nicely.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each smashed potato. Now, pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the potatoes are crispy and golden brown. Your kitchen should smell amazing!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the potatoes cool for a moment. If you’re using fresh herbs, sprinkle them on top for a lovely finish. Serve these delicious smashed potatoes warm as a delightful side dish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes or new potatoes work best for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly for larger potatoes—check for doneness by piercing with a fork!
How to Store Leftover Smashed Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil before reheating for extra crispiness!
Can I Make Them Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the smashed potatoes ahead of time! Boil and smash the potatoes, then carry on with seasoning them but skip the baking. Cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just drizzle with oil and bake them until crispy. Simple and effective!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can skip the cheese altogether or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Additionally, crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a delightful twist if you have any on hand!
