Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Crispy Smashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Crunchy Potatoes


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

Crispy smashed potatoes are a delicious side dish featuring creamy baby potatoes with a crunchy exterior. Seasoned with garlic, onion, and smoked paprika, these golden-baked potatoes are garnished with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Perfectly crispy and irresistible, they make a great addition to any meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds of baby potatoes (or small Yukon Gold potatoes)
  • 4 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), for garnish
  • Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for extra flavor

Instructions

  1. Wash the Potatoes: Rinse the baby potatoes under cold water to remove dirt. Scrub gently with a vegetable brush to ensure they’re clean, as the skins will be left on for extra crispiness.
  2. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, add the cleaned potatoes and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  3. Drain and Cool: Carefully drain the cooked potatoes in a colander and let them cool for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  5. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
  6. Smash the Potatoes: Place the cooled potatoes on the baking sheet, leaving space between each. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until flattened to about ½ inch thickness.
  7. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, ensuring each potato is well-coated.
  8. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the potatoes. Optionally, add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
  9. Toss to Coat: Gently toss the potatoes to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
  10. Bake the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
  11. Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crunch, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
  12. Garnish: Once out of the oven, let the potatoes cool for a minute. Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on top. If you didn’t add Parmesan earlier, sprinkle some now.
  13. Serve: Transfer the crispy smashed potatoes to a serving platter. Best enjoyed immediately while warm and crispy, with a side of sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce.
  14. Enjoy: Dig in and savor the delightful crunch of these crispy smashed potatoes!

Notes

  • For added flavor, consider experimenting with different herbs or spices.
  • These potatoes can be served as a side dish or enjoyed as a snack.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes