Smashed potatoes are little bites of happiness! They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, perfect for a side dish that everyone will love.
I like to add a sprinkle of herbs or cheese on top for extra flavor. They’re super easy to make, and you won’t have leftovers—trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Baby potatoes or Yukon gold are perfect for this recipe. Their creamy texture makes them ideal for smashing. If you can’t find these, red potatoes work well too. Just ensure they are all about the same size for even cooking.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, but you can use any cooking oil you like, such as avocado or grapeseed oil. If you’re looking for a lighter option, melted butter can also be a nice change.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is unbeatable for flavor, but in a pinch, garlic powder could serve as a substitute. I prefer using roasted garlic when I want a sweeter taste!
Cheese: While Parmesan adds a wonderful taste, you can swap it with Pecorino Romano for a saltier touch or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. Both options keep the dish tasty!
What’s the Best Way to Smash Potatoes Without Making a Mess?
Smashing the potatoes can get a bit messy if not done correctly. Here’s how to do it neatly:
- After boiling, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes – this prevents burns and helps you manage them better.
- Place the potato on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, press down gently until flattened.
- Keep them spaced apart to ensure even roasting and easy handling.
This method keeps your kitchen clean while helping the potatoes get that delightful crispy edge when roasted!
How to Make Smashed Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby or Yukon gold potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, if available)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as parsley or chives)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare the potatoes and cook them, plus an additional 20-25 minutes to roast in the oven. Overall, expect to spend about 45-50 minutes to enjoy these tasty smashed potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Oven and Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. You want them nice and soft!
2. Drain and Cool the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are done cooking, drain them in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes. Allowing them to cool will make it easier to handle them when it’s time to smash!
3. Smash Those Potatoes:
On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the cooled potatoes, spacing them out evenly. Then, grab the bottom of a glass or a potato masher and gently smash each potato until they’re slightly flattened but still in one piece. This is where the magic happens!
4. Add Flavor with Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this flavorful mixture over the smashed potatoes, making sure every potato gets a good coating of that garlicky goodness.
5. Cheese it Up (Optional):
If you like a little extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the smashed potatoes. This step is completely optional, but who doesn’t love cheesy potatoes?
6. Roast to Crispy Perfection:
Now it’s time to roast! Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let the potatoes roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges become crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them—you want them perfectly crunchy!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, consider garnishing the smashed potatoes with some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these golden delights hot as a delicious side dish, and enjoy the smiles around the table!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes work great, you can also use red potatoes or any other waxy variety. Just make sure they are similar in size for even cooking!
How Can I Make These Smashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the potatoes and smash them in advance, then store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before roasting. Just drizzle the olive oil and seasoning mixture right before you’re ready to bake them for the best flavor and texture!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can simply omit the cheese for a dairy-free option, or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Alternatively, try using another cheese like feta or cheddar if you have that on hand.
How to Store Leftover Smashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results, or use the microwave, adding a little olive oil or water to help retain moisture while reheating.
