These smashed potatoes are just the right mix of crispy and fluffy! Boiling them first gives a soft inside, while baking makes the outside nice and golden.
Perfect as a side dish or a snack, these little guys are super fun to make. Who wouldn’t love smashing their food? They’re always a hit at my dinner table!
I love adding a sprinkle of cheese or herbs on top before baking. They look fancy but are super easy to whip up—even on a busy weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I recommend baby potatoes for their naturally creamy texture. Yukon Golds work well too. If you don’t have these, any small potatoes like red potatoes can be used!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor. If you want a different taste, try avocado oil or melted butter. Both options add a unique twist!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a great depth of flavor. For convenience, you can substitute with garlic powder, but fresh will always be best. If you’re sensitive to garlic, feel free to use less or omit it.
Fresh Thyme: This herb adds freshness. If you can’t find it, dried thyme is a decent substitute; just use about a third of the amount since dried is stronger!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice, salty finish. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a similar cheesy flavor, plus it’s packed with nutrients!
How Can I Get My Potatoes Crispy and Golden Brown?
Getting that perfect crunchy exterior on your smashed potatoes is key! After boiling the potatoes, smashing them is super important as it increases the surface area. The more you smash, the crunchier they get!
- Make sure your baking sheet is lined with parchment to prevent sticking.
- Drizzle the olive oil mixture generously before baking. It’s essential for crispiness.
- Don’t crowd the potatoes on the baking sheet; give them space to roast properly.
- Keep an eye on them in the oven—every oven is different, so they might need a few extra minutes!
Letting the potatoes cool slightly before serving allows the flavors to settle, making each bite delicious and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (or small Yukon Gold potatoes)
For The Seasoning:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves (about 1 tablespoon)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time and about 25-30 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 45-50 minutes. You’ll enjoy the simple steps of boiling, smashing, seasoning, and baking these delicious potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for roasting the potatoes to crispy perfection!
2. Boil The Potatoes:
In a large pot, fill it with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the baby potatoes and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. When they’re done, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Smash Those Potatoes:
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the boiled potatoes in a single layer. Grab the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, and gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still holds its shape. This creates the perfect surface for crispy edges!
4. Season the Potatoes:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this tasty mixture over the smashed potatoes, making sure each one gets a good coating to infuse flavor.
5. Add Parmesan (Optional):
If you’re a cheese lover, now’s the time to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the potatoes. This step is totally optional, but it adds a great cheesy flavor!
6. Bake Away:
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the smashed potatoes for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When the potatoes are beautifully roasted, carefully remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before munching on your tasty bites. If you like, sprinkle a few extra thyme leaves on top for garnish. Enjoy your delicious smashed potatoes!
## FAQs for Smashed Potatoes
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes and Yukon Golds work great, you can also use red potatoes or even larger russet potatoes. Just be sure to cut larger potatoes into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Smashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until heated through. This will help retain their crispy edges!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can boil and smash the potatoes a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to bake, drizzle with olive oil and seasonings, and then pop them in the oven to get crispy right before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use melted butter or avocado oil as a substitute for olive oil. Just keep in mind that butter will add a rich flavor, while avocado oil has a higher smoke point for cooking!
