Smashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and impressive, you’ve come to the right place! Smashed Potatoes are a delightful treat that never fails to please. They offer a crispy exterior with a fluffy inside, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these potatoes will steal the show.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You only need a handful of simple ingredients, and you can customize them to your liking. Once you take that first bite of these golden, garlic-infused delights, you’ll understand why they’re such a favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish without any fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike love the crispy texture and buttery flavor.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can boil the potatoes ahead of time and smash them just before baking for quick prep.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of garlic and herbs elevates simple potatoes into something truly special.
• Customizable toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or cheeses for an extra twist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that they’re all wholesome and easy to work with, making this recipe not only delicious but also accessible. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Smashed Potatoes

• 1 pound baby potatoes (red or Yukon Gold)
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• Cooking spray

Variations

The beauty of Smashed Potatoes lies in their flexibility. You can easily adapt this basic recipe to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add more cheese: Sprinkle some mozzarella or cheddar on top for extra gooey goodness.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes before baking for a kick of heat.
• Herb it up: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for different flavor profiles.
• Go vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by boiling the baby potatoes in salted water for about 18-22 minutes until they are tender. This step is crucial because it ensures that your potatoes will be soft enough to smash down easily. Plus, salting the water enhances their flavor from the get-go.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that desired crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray once your potatoes are done boiling. Draining and arranging them in a single layer on the baking sheet will allow them to cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden color.

Step 4: Smash Those Potatoes

Now comes the fun part! Using the bottom of a glass or potato masher, gently smash each potato down to about half an inch thick. This step is important because it increases the surface area, allowing more room for that delicious buttery mixture and creating those crispy edges we all love.

Step 5: Mix Up Your Garlic Butter

In a bowl, combine the melted butter with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this flavorful mixture over your smashed potatoes generously. This adds so much depth to each bite!

Step 6: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each potato before popping them into the oven. The cheese will melt into those crevices and form a lovely crust as they bake.

Step 7: Bake Until Crispy

Bake your smashed potatoes for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them—every oven is different! Once they look perfect, take them out and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delightful Smashed Potatoes! I hope they become as beloved in your home as they are in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Smashed Potatoes

To elevate your Smashed Potatoes to a whole new level, here are some simple yet effective tips that will make all the difference!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for baby potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well when boiled and smashed.

• Don’t skip the seasoning: Adding salt to the boiling water not only enhances the flavor of the potatoes themselves but also ensures that each bite is seasoned perfectly.

• Get creative with toppings: While Parmesan cheese is delicious, consider adding different cheeses or fresh herbs based on your preferences. This allows you to customize the dish for various occasions.

• Bake until crispy: Keep an eye on your potatoes while they bake; you want them golden brown and crispy. If needed, broil them for a minute or two at the end for extra crunch!

• Serve immediately: Smashed Potatoes are best served fresh out of the oven. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior are at their peak right after baking.

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Presenting Smashed Potatoes can be just as fun as making them! Here are some delightful ideas to make this dish shine at your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Freshly chopped chives add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, making your dish look even more inviting.
• Crumbled feta cheese: For a tangy twist, sprinkle crumbled feta over your smashed potatoes; it complements the richness beautifully.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted seasonal vegetables: Pairing your Smashed Potatoes with roasted seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus creates a colorful and nutritious plate.
• Grilled chicken or fish: These proteins work wonderfully alongside smashed potatoes. Their light flavor complements the hearty texture without overpowering it.
• Mixed greens salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich potatoes.
• Garlic bread: For those who love carbs (and who doesn’t?), garlic bread is a delicious side that pairs perfectly with smashed potatoes, especially if you’re serving it alongside a hearty soup or stew.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Smashed Potatoes will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any dinner table! Enjoy every yummy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Smashed Potatoes are not only a delightful treat to enjoy fresh out of the oven, but they also shine in meal prep scenarios. Whether you’re planning for a busy week or a festive gathering, these potatoes can be made ahead and stored with ease.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the smashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• After cooling, arrange the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid.
• Transfer the frozen potatoes to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange the frozen or refrigerated smashed potatoes on a baking sheet.
• Drizzle with a bit of olive oil or melted butter for added crispiness.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Smashed Potatoes that might help you on your cooking journey.

Can I make Smashed Potatoes without Parmesan cheese?

Absolutely! You can skip the cheese entirely or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How do I achieve crispy Smashed Potatoes?

For extra crispiness, ensure that you smash the potatoes to about half an inch thick and bake them at a high temperature. Drizzling with some additional oil before baking will also help!

What are some topping ideas for Smashed Potatoes?

You can get creative! Try adding crumbled feta, chopped green onions, or even drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a gourmet twist.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes! While baby potatoes are recommended for their creaminess, you can also use larger russet or red potatoes. Just adjust boiling time accordingly.

How long does it take to make Smashed Potatoes from start to finish?

From boiling to baking, this delicious side dish takes around 35 minutes total!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Smashed Potatoes brings joy and comfort to your dinner table! With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavors, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences! Happy cooking!