If you’re searching for the perfect comfort food that’s crispy, fluffy, and downright delicious, smashed potatoes are a must-try addition to your culinary repertoire. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making smashed potatoes at home, from choosing the right potato, to picking standout toppings and serving ideas for every occasion.
What Are Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are a delightful cross between mashed and roasted potatoes. Unlike classic mashed potatoes, they retain their skin and a rustic texture, giving you irresistible crispy edges and soft, fluffy interiors. Typically made by boiling small potatoes until tender, smashing them, and roasting them in the oven, these potatoes make the perfect side dish or snack for any meal.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
The first step in making the best smashed potatoes is selecting the right type of potato. Generally, small, waxy potatoes are favored for their creamy interior and ability to hold their shape. Here are some great options:
- Yukon Gold: Creamy, naturally buttery, and hold up well with smashing.
- Red Potatoes: Their thin skin crisps up beautifully and they remain fluffy inside.
- Baby Potatoes: Small, bite-sized, and cook quickly for easy preparation.
While starchy potatoes like russets can be used in a pinch, they’re more likely to fall apart during the smashing process.
Essential Ingredients
While you can jazz up smashed potatoes with endless toppings, the basic ingredients list is short and simple:
- 1 to 2 pounds small potatoes (Yukon Gold, red, or baby)
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins for flavor:
- Fresh or dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley, or chives)
- Minced garlic
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crumbled bacon
Equipment You’ll Need
Smashed potatoes can be made with just a few standard kitchen tools:
- Large pot or saucepan for boiling
- Baking sheet (rimmed preferred)
- Potato masher, fork, or flat-bottomed glass for smashing the potatoes
- Silicone brush or spoon for drizzling oil or butter
Step-by-Step Smashed Potato Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Thoroughly scrub your potatoes under cold water, leaving the skins on for extra texture and nutrition. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook until the potatoes are very tender (easily pierced with a fork), about 15-20 minutes depending on size.
Step 2: Drain and Dry
Drain the potatoes well and let them sit for a few minutes to dry out—this helps them crisp up better in the oven. For even crispier potatoes, you can return them to the hot pot to evaporate any excess moisture.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a potato masher, flat-bottomed glass, or a fork to gently “smash” each potato to about 1/2-inch thickness. Don’t go too thin or they’ll fall apart.
Step 4: Season and Oil
Brush or drizzle each smashed potato with olive oil or melted butter, making sure to coat all the nooks and crannies for maximum crispness. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, along with any additional toppings like garlic, herbs, or cheese.
Step 5: Roast to Crispy Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the edges are deeply golden and crisp. For extra browning, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your crispy smashed potatoes to a platter. Garnish with extra herbs, cheese, or bacon bits. Serve hot for the ultimate flavor and texture!
Tips for Extra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Dry Well: Let potatoes air dry after boiling for crispier results.
- Don’t Skimp on Oil: Coat every smashed surface with oil or butter. It helps with browning!
- More Space, More Crisp: Give the potatoes space on the baking sheet so they roast, not steam.
- High Heat: Roast at a high oven temperature.
- Double Smash: Smash the potatoes after 15 minutes of roasting for an even crispier texture.
Flavor Variations and Topping Ideas
Smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile, soaking up any flavors you add. Try these topping ideas to keep things exciting:
- Parmesan & Garlic: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and minced garlic before roasting.
- Cheesy Bacon: Top with shredded cheddar, crumbled cooked bacon, and scallions.
- Herb Lovers: Use rosemary, thyme, or parsley and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, smoked paprika, or drizzle with hot sauce after baking.
- Vegan Delight: Sub olive oil for butter and finish with nutritional yeast and fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Smashed potatoes are the ultimate side dish, but they’re equally at home as a standalone snack or part of a larger spread. Here are some popular pairings:
- With Grilled Meats: Perfect alongside steak, chicken, or pork chops.
- Brunch Plate: Serve with eggs, avocado, and crispy bacon.
- Loaded Potato Bar: Offer a variety of toppings for guests to customize their potatoes.
- Vegetarian Feast: Pair with roasted vegetables or grilled portobellos.
- Game Day Snack: Serve with a side of sour cream, chive dip, or zesty aioli.
Dietary Modifications
Smashed potatoes can easily be adapted for various dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; just be cautious with store-bought toppings or dips.
- Vegan: Use olive oil and skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter or just olive oil; swap out cheese toppings.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftover smashed potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat and maintain crispness, place them on a lined baking sheet in a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes, or until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can boil and smash the potatoes a few hours in advance. When ready to serve, simply roast them until crisp.
What is the difference between smashed and mashed potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are boiled, smashed, and roasted for a crispy texture, while mashed potatoes are usually peeled, boiled, and thoroughly mashed together with milk and butter for a creamy consistency.
Can I use large potatoes?
Small potatoes are recommended for even cooking and easy portioning, but you can use large potatoes cut into chunks if needed. Just be sure to smash each piece individually.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Smashed Potatoes
- Potato Nachos: Top with salsa, jalapeños, black beans, and cheese for an inventive snack.
- Breakfast Hash: Chop and fry with eggs, onions, and veggies.
- Soup Topper: Use as a crunchy garnish for creamy soups.
Conclusion
Smashed potatoes are easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to satisfy any potato lover’s cravings. With this ultimate guide, you’re now equipped to create golden, crispy smashed potatoes at home, ready to impress family and friends. So, grab your favorite potatoes, preheat the oven, and start smashing!
Smashed potatoes are a crowd-pleasing, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside side dish that’s easy to make at home.
Small, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are best for making smashed potatoes.
Boil, smash, season, and roast your potatoes to achieve the perfect crispiness.
Smashed potatoes are highly customizable with endless topping and flavor variations.
These potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes and can be adapted for different dietary needs.
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