Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe with Flavorful Twists

Introduction

Crispy, golden, and irresistibly buttery—smashed potatoes are a total game-changer.

If you’ve never tried them, imagine the comforting fluffiness of mashed potatoes meeting the crunchy edge of roasted ones. I first made them on a whim during a weeknight when I was short on time and ingredients—and they became an instant family favorite. With a quick smash and a drizzle of garlic butter, this side dish turned into the star of the meal. It’s a fantastic go-to for holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, or even casual backyard BBQs when you’re craving something hearty yet simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make – Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Packed with texture and flavor – Soft centers and crispy edges.
• Only a few ingredients needed – Most of which are pantry staples.
• Crowd-pleasing – Even picky eaters devour these.

Ingredients & Preparation

A Few Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor Payoff

The beauty of smashed potatoes lies in their simplicity. No fancy techniques or hard-to-find items—just a few pantry staples and one key trick: small potatoes. The smaller the potato, the crispier the final result. A touch of garlic butter, some olive oil, and a sprinkle of herbs elevate this humble dish to gourmet status. If you’re looking for variations, both the garlic smashed potatoes from AllRecipes and the crispy smashed potatoes recipe on Food.com offer fantastic spins on the classic.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1.5 to 2 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red work best)
• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• Fresh chopped parsley or chives, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)

You can also add your twist—some like a squeeze of lemon for brightness or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for depth.

How to Make Smashed Potatoes (With Flavor + Crunch!)

Making smashed potatoes is not only easy but surprisingly fun. You’ll boil, smash, season, and roast—simple steps that deliver big results.

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes
   Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
   Tip: Don’t overcook or they’ll fall apart when smashed.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)
   While the potatoes boil, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
3. Drain and cool slightly
   Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and let them sit for 5 minutes so the excess steam evaporates.
4. Smash the potatoes
   Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press each potato down until it flattens.
   Tip: Try not to press too hard—you’re aiming for cracked edges, not mashed potatoes.
5. Season generously
   In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Brush over each smashed potato. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Roast to crispy perfection
   Place in the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
   Tip: For extra crisp, broil the last 2–3 minutes—just watch closely to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and serve
   Remove from the oven and top with chopped herbs and Parmesan if using. Serve hot and enjoy immediately for the best texture.

Cooking & Serving

Master the Crispy Smashed Potato with These Pro Tips

While this recipe is simple, a few tricks can take your smashed potatoes from good to unforgettable. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a fresh batch for a weekend feast, these tips ensure delicious, crispy results every time.

💡 Pro Tips for Success

• Ingredient Swaps & Adjustments
  • No baby potatoes? Use regular Yukon Golds or red potatoes—just cut them into smaller chunks before boiling.
  • Out of butter? Substitute with vegan butter or just increase olive oil.
  • Don’t love garlic? Try onion powder or smoked paprika for flavor without the bite.
• Storage & Reheating Tips
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, avoid the microwave—it softens the crisp. Instead, bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or toss in an air fryer for a quick crisp refresh.
• Enhance the Flavor & Texture
  • Add grated Parmesan halfway through baking for a melty, savory crust.
  • Want an herby twist? Mix fresh rosemary or thyme into the garlic butter before brushing.
  • For extra crispy edges, brush with oil after smashing, then again after 15 minutes of roasting.

If you love extra crispy results, take a cue from this crispy smashed potatoes recipe on Food.com, which suggests turning the potatoes halfway through baking.

🔄 Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free—just ensure your butter or cheese choices are certified gluten-free.
• Vegan: Use plant-based butter and skip the cheese (or opt for vegan cheese).
• Low-Sodium: Reduce added salt and enhance flavor with citrus zest or herbs instead.
• Extra Protein: Add crispy crumbled bacon or chickpeas over the top before serving.

Looking for a garlic-forward option? Try these garlic smashed potatoes from AllRecipes, which double down on roasted garlic flavor.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Pair With
  • Protein mains like cheesy garlic butter chicken or grilled salmon.
  • Fresh salads like arugula or spinach with lemon vinaigrette.
  • Drinks like sparkling lemonade, dry white wine, or light beer for a balanced meal.
• Garnish Tips
  • Finish with chopped fresh parsley, dill, or green onions for color and flavor.
  • Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt with chives for a loaded potato feel.
  • For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.

Whether you’re serving these at a dinner party or indulging in a cozy solo meal, these smashed potatoes will always impress.

FAQs About Smashed Potatoes

Got questions? Here are some quick answers to help you master the perfect crispy smashed potatoes every time.

• Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?
  Yes! Boil and smash the potatoes in advance, then refrigerate them. When ready, season and roast just before serving for the best texture.
• What kind of potatoes work best for smashing?
  Baby Yukon Golds or red potatoes are ideal because they’re small, creamy, and hold their shape well. Larger potatoes can be cut down as needed.
• How do I make them extra crispy?
  Use high heat (around 425°F), don’t overcrowd the pan, and brush them with oil both before and during roasting. For even crispier edges, try the crispy smashed potatoes recipe from Food.com.
• Can I add more flavor to the basic recipe?
  Absolutely! Garlic butter is classic, as seen in this garlic smashed potatoes recipe, but you can also experiment with herbs, cheese, or even chili flakes.

Conclusion

Crispy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable—smashed potatoes truly deserve a spot in your recipe rotation.

We’ve walked through the simple steps, essential ingredients, and clever tips to help you create your best batch yet. Whether you go with the bold garlic flavor in this garlic smashed potatoes recipe or crave the extra crunch from this crispy smashed potatoes recipe, you’re in for a treat.

• Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners
• Requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor
• Easy to adapt for different diets and tastes

Don’t stop here—pair them with hearty mains like cheesy garlic butter chicken or serve them solo as a snack. Try this recipe today and elevate your side dish game. Love this guide? Bookmark it, share it, and keep exploring delicious ideas to bring more joy to your table.

Print