Smashed Potatoes

Published: January 30, 2026

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, these smashed potatoes come together quickly.
Flavorful Taste: The combination of garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese creates a rich flavor profile that elevates any meal.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with chicken, beef, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits various tastes.
Crispy Texture: The roasting process ensures perfectly crispy edges while keeping the insides fluffy.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, these potatoes are sure to be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious smashed potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Potato masher or glass
Large pot
Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

Potato masher or glass: Essential for flattening the cooked potatoes evenly, ensuring they crisp up nicely in the oven.
Large pot: Needed for boiling the baby potatoes until they reach the perfect tenderness.
Baking sheet: Provides ample space to roast multiple smashed potatoes at once for an efficient cooking process.
Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the butter and seasonings before drizzling over the smashed 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)
Cooking spray

For the Garlic Herb Butter

4 tablespoons butter (melted)
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the baby potatoes and cook for 18-22 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Drain the cooked potatoes and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, carefully flatten each potato until it is about ½ inch thick.

Step 5: Mix Garlic Herb Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Step 6: Drizzle Over Potatoes

Drizzle the garlic herb butter mixture over each smashed potato.
Evenly sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese on top of each one.

Step 7: Bake Until Crispy

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Once done, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously crispy smashed potatoes!

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that pair well with a variety of meals. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

Serve alongside grilled chicken for a flavorful and satisfying meal. The crispy texture of the smashed potatoes complements the tender, juicy chicken beautifully.

As Part of a Salad Bowl

Add smashed potatoes to a salad bowl for extra heartiness. Toss in fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing to create a vibrant and filling dish.

Topped with Sour Cream

Drizzle some sour cream over your smashed potatoes for added creaminess. You can also sprinkle some chives or green onions on top for an extra kick.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

Serve smashed potatoes with roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. The combination adds color and nutrition to your plate.

Accompanied by Beef Stew

Enjoy smashed potatoes as a side with beef stew. Their crispy exterior perfectly soaks up the rich gravy, enhancing every bite.

With Herb Butter Sauce

For an indulgent twist, drizzle extra herb butter sauce over your smashed potatoes right before serving. This adds depth and flavor that is hard to resist.

How to Perfect Smashed Potatoes

To ensure your smashed potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

Choose small potatoes – Baby potatoes like red or Yukon Gold offer the best texture and flavor for smashing.
Don’t skip the boiling – Boiling the potatoes until tender is crucial for achieving that fluffy interior.
Use enough seasoning – Generously season both the boiling water and the butter mixture to enhance flavors throughout.
Flatten them evenly – When smashing, aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly in the oven.
Watch the baking time – Keep an eye on them while baking; you want them golden brown but not burnt.
Garnish just before serving – Adding parsley or other herbs right before serving keeps them fresh and vibrant.

Best Side Dishes for Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes make a fantastic addition to many meals. Here are some great side dishes to consider serving alongside:

Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus grilled until tender adds a fresh crunch that pairs well with smashed potatoes.
Steamed Broccoli – Offer bright green steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice for a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that complement the crispy texture of smashed potatoes.
Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for those who love deep flavors and carbs combined.
Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing that balances the richness of smashed potatoes.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which is perfect for cutting through the buttery taste of the potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making smashed potatoes, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Boldly overcooking the potatoes: Overcooking can make your potatoes too soft and mushy. Keep an eye on them and follow the cooking time closely.
Boldly skipping the seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland potatoes. Make sure to add enough salt and pepper before serving.
Boldly using cold butter: Cold butter won’t mix well with the other ingredients, leading to uneven flavor. Always melt the butter before combining it with garlic and herbs.
Boldly overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many potatoes on the sheet can prevent them from getting crispy. Ensure they have enough space for air circulation while baking.
Boldly forgetting about garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or cheese at the end can rob your dish of flavor and appeal. Don’t forget to sprinkle parsley or grated cheese before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store smashed potatoes in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Smashed Potatoes

Place cooled smashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are well-sealed.

Reheating Smashed Potatoes

Boldly oven reheating: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
Boldly microwave reheating: Place a few smashed potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warmed through.
Boldly stovetop reheating: Add a little butter or oil to a skillet over medium heat. Cook smashed potatoes, flipping occasionally until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions about preparing smashed potatoes, check out these frequently asked questions!

How do I make crispy smashed potatoes?

To achieve crispy smashed potatoes, ensure they are evenly spaced on the baking sheet and bake at a high temperature. The melted butter mixture also helps enhance crispiness.

Can I use different types of potatoes for smashed potatoes?

Yes! You can use various baby potato types like red or Yukon Gold. Each type will bring its unique flavor and texture.

How can I customize my smashed potatoes?

Feel free to add different herbs or spices based on your preferences! You could try adding rosemary, thyme, or even cheese varieties like cheddar for added flavor.

Are smashed potatoes healthy?

Smashed potatoes can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. They provide carbohydrates and essential nutrients from the skin if left unpeeled.

Can I prepare smashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can boil and smash them ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them for serving.

Final Thoughts

These smashed potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. With their crispy edges and flavorful toppings, they’re sure to impress at any gathering. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or cheese options; make it your own!

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