If you are searching for a dish that brings together golden, irresistible crunch and tender potato goodness, this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Perfectly boiled baby potatoes get lovingly smashed, coated in a fragrant blend of garlic and smoky paprika, and roasted until irresistibly crisp on the outside while staying soft inside. It’s pure comfort food with a touch of elegance, ideal for a cozy family dinner or an impressive side at your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, kitchen staple ingredients is all it takes to transform humble baby potatoes into something amazingly delicious. Each component plays its part, from the tender Yukon Gold potatoes providing a buttery texture to the olive oil or melted butter which crisps them up with golden perfection. The seasoning blend adds savory depth and a touch of smoky warmth, while fresh parsley brightens the finished dish with a pop of color and freshness.
- 1½ lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes): These small potatoes cook evenly and hold shape beautifully when smashed.
- 2 tbsp salt (for boiling water): Enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor during cooking.
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter: Responsible for those crave-worthy crispy edges and rich richness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional): Brings a subtle smoky depth to the seasoning mix.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the flavors perfectly in the seasoning blend.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick and complexity.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Freshens and brightens the presentation with vibrant green color.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Provides a savory, cheesy twist for those who want extra indulgence.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by bringing a generous pot of salted water to a boil. This step ensures your baby potatoes become perfectly tender without losing flavor. Add the potatoes and let them cook for 15 to 20 minutes until you can easily pierce them with a fork. Once tender, drain and allow them to cool slightly to handle.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
While the oven heats up to 425°F (220°C), spread your potatoes out on a greased baking sheet. Using a fork or the base of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it’s about half an inch thick. The goal is to flatten them just enough to create plenty of surface area for crispiness without turning them into a mash.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Mix together the olive oil or melted butter with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle this flavorful mixture evenly over each smashed potato, making sure every piece is coated. Roast in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking — this step guarantees a crunchy, golden crust on both sides that’s simply addictive.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
When your Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe comes out of the oven, sprinkle the tops with fresh parsley and, if you want to add a cheesy layer of yum, some grated Parmesan. Serve them hot, paired with a dipping sauce of your choice, and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds.
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, adding a herbal brightness that balances the richness. If you love cheese, a light dusting of Parmesan adds a salty, savory dimension. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like chives or rosemary for extra aroma and flavor flair.
Side Dishes
This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The crispy texture complements juicy main courses like steaks or chicken, while also standing strong alongside lighter dishes for a satisfying contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these potatoes as bite-sized appetizers with toothpicks and a variety of dips — think garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or tangy yogurt sauce. You can also layer them on a large platter with a sprinkle of microgreens for a stunning party dish everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Crispy Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor well, though the crispiness might soften over time.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked potatoes, but for best texture, it’s recommended to freeze them before roasting. Simply boil and smash the potatoes, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, roast from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.
Reheating
To revive the crispiness, reheat leftovers in a hot oven or air fryer rather than a microwave. This ensures they retain that satisfying crunch without becoming soggy. A quick 10-minute bake at 400°F usually does the trick.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cut larger potatoes into equal-sized chunks before boiling so they cook evenly, and then proceed with smashing and roasting as usual.
Is it better to use olive oil or butter?
Both work wonderfully. Olive oil gives a lighter, fruity crisp, while melted butter adds rich, savory depth. Sometimes I like to mix them for the best of both worlds.
Can I add other spices for different flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a pinch of chili powder for some heat. This recipe is a versatile base perfect for customization.
How do I know when the potatoes are done roasting?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the edges, with a lovely crust on both sides. A fork should pierce through easily but reveal soft, fluffy insides.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes! Simply use olive oil instead of butter and omit the Parmesan or swap for a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it vegan-friendly without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, simple enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough for company. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do — it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish featuring tender boiled baby potatoes smashed flat and roasted to golden perfection. With a savory blend of garlic, smoked paprika, and olive oil or butter, these potatoes develop a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, garnished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1½ lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 2 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
Seasoning & Topping
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons of salt. Add the baby potatoes and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Smash the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the baby potatoes on a greased baking sheet. Use a fork or the bottom of a glass to gently press each potato until it flattens to about ½ inch thick.
- Season & Roast: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this seasoning mixture evenly over the smashed potatoes. Roast them in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
- Garnish & Serve: Once roasted, sprinkle the crispy smashed potatoes with fresh chopped parsley and, if desired, grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold or red baby potatoes for best texture and flavor.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice smoky depth.
- For a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead of butter and skip the Parmesan.
- Flipping the potatoes halfway through roasting ensures even crispiness.
- Serve immediately for the best crisp texture, as they soften if left to cool.
