Name: Smashed Potatoes Incredible Step: 4 Easy Tips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488858H11M56S
Total time: PT-488858H11M56S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds of baby or Yukon gold potatoes; 4 tablespoons of olive oil; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), for garnish; Optional: Grated parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese

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Smashed Potatoes Incredible Step has become my go-to side dish for virtually any meal, and I’m so excited to share my secret with you! I first discovered this method when I was trying to impress some friends, and I wanted potatoes that were both fluffy inside and perfectly crispy outside. The aroma of garlic and herbs baking filled my kitchen, promising something truly special. These crispy smashed potatoes are ridiculously easy to make and always disappear in minutes. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Incredible Smashed Potatoes

Gather these simple ingredients for the most delicious side dish. Making these garlic smashed potatoes is a breeze with pantry staples and fresh produce.

2 pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes – these small wonders get perfectly tender inside and crispy outside
4 tablespoons olive oil – extra virgin is great for flavor and a lovely crisp
4 cloves garlic, minced – this is key for that amazing garlic smashed potatoes flavor
Salt and pepper to taste – season generously for the best results
Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), for garnish – adds a beautiful pop of color and fresh aroma
Optional: Grated parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese – for an extra layer of savory goodness

How to Make Smashed Potatoes Incredible Step

Get ready for the easiest and most delicious potatoes you’ll ever make. This method truly is an incredible step towards potato perfection!

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to a scorching 450°F (230°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large pot, fill it with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add your potatoes and let them boil until they are fork-tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on their size. You want them to be soft enough to smash easily, but not mushy.
Step 2: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them really well in a colander. Let them sit there for a few minutes to steam dry. This is a small but mighty step that helps them get super crispy later on. Trust me, you don’t want any extra water hanging around!
Step 3: Now for the fun part! Lightly grease a baking sheet – I like to use a little olive oil or cooking spray. Carefully place your drained, tender potatoes onto the baking sheet. Using a sturdy glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato to smash them. Aim for a flat, rustic shape, about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t go crazy and turn them into mush; we want them to hold together.

Step 4: Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure to get some oil on both sides if you can. Now, season them up! Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your minced garlic. I love the aroma this creates – it’s the start of truly incredible smashed potatoes.
Step 5: Slide that baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. You’re looking for that beautiful golden-brown color and those irresistible crispy edges. These oven-baked potatoes will fill your kitchen with an amazing scent.
Step 6: Once they’re golden and crispy, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. If you’re using them, sprinkle your fresh herbs and optional parmesan or feta cheese over the top. The cheese will melt beautifully.
Step 7: Serve your perfectly crispy smashed potatoes immediately. They are best enjoyed piping hot, straight from the oven, for that ultimate texture contrast – fluffy inside, super crispy outside. Enjoy this simple yet incredible step in your potato journey!

Pro Tips for the Best Smashed Potatoes

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these potatoes truly shine. Follow these tips for guaranteed success and absolutely delicious results every time!

Boil potatoes until they are just fork-tender; over-boiling can make them too mushy to smash properly.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the potatoes space so they can crisp up instead of steaming.
Use a sturdy glass or a potato masher for smashing – a gentle but firm press is key.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne can add a wonderful kick.

What’s the secret to perfect smashed potatoes?

The secret to achieving crispy smashed potatoes lies in the double-cook method: boiling until tender, then smashing and baking until golden. Letting them steam dry after boiling is also crucial for crispiness. For more on achieving perfect textures in cooking, you might find resources on the science of crispy potatoes helpful.

Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?

You can boil and smash the potatoes up to a day in advance. Store them on the baking sheet, covered, in the refrigerator. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook them.

How do I avoid common mistakes with smashed potatoes?

A common pitfall is smashing them too thin, which can lead to burning. Also, overcrowding the pan prevents crisping. Ensure your oven is fully preheated for the best texture. If you’re looking for more general cooking advice, check out these essential cooking tips.

Best Ways to Serve Smashed Potatoes

These crispy, golden potatoes are incredibly versatile and make the perfect side dish for almost any meal. They’re a fantastic alternative to regular baked potatoes or fries. I love pairing them with grilled chicken or steak for a classic dinner. They also shine next to roasted pork tenderloin or a hearty beef stew. For a lighter meal, serve them with a big salad and some pan-seared salmon. Honestly, as a smashed potatoes side dish, they elevate everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions.

Nutrition Facts for Smashed Potatoes

When you make these smashed potatoes, you’re getting a delicious side that’s also quite light. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving, though remember these are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: 200 kcal
Fat: 10g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Smashed Potatoes

Even though these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, I’ve found they store and reheat surprisingly well, making them a great make-ahead option. Once they’ve cooled completely – and this is important to prevent sogginess – store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep nicely in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you need to store them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. For reheating, my favorite method is to pop them back into a hot oven (around 375°F or 190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re crispy again. You can also use an air fryer or even a skillet on medium-high heat. For more on food storage, consult resources on proper food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smashed Potatoes

What makes these smashed potatoes incredible?

It’s really about the technique! Boiling them until just fork-tender, then smashing them and baking until golden and crispy, creates a fantastic texture contrast. This method, which is an incredible step in potato preparation, yields a fluffy interior with delightfully crunchy edges.

Can I use different types of potatoes for this easy potato recipe?

Absolutely! While baby Yukon Golds are my favorite for this easy potato recipe, you can also use other waxy potatoes like red potatoes or fingerlings. Just ensure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can become too crumbly when smashed. For more on potato varieties, see this guide to potato varieties.

How can I add more flavor to my smashed potatoes?

There are so many ways! You can mix minced garlic and fresh herbs directly into the potatoes before baking. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before they finish baking is also a winner!

My smashed potatoes aren’t crispy enough. What am I doing wrong?

Don’t worry, it happens! Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 450°F (230°C) and give the potatoes enough space on the baking sheet so they aren’t crowded. Also, ensuring they steam dry after boiling is key to achieving that sought-after crispiness.

Variations of Smashed Potatoes You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic incredible step for smashed potatoes, you’ll want to explore all the delicious ways to customize them! These potatoes are so versatile, and you can easily adapt them to your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas I love to play with:

Garlic Herb: This is my classic go-to, but you can swap out the herbs. Try a mix of rosemary and thyme, or even some chopped chives for a fresh oniony bite.
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes: For an extra layer of savory goodness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. It creates a wonderfully cheesy, crispy crust.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture before baking for a bit of heat. Smoked paprika also adds a lovely smoky depth.
Feta & Dill: After baking, crumble some feta cheese over the hot potatoes and sprinkle with fresh dill. This gives them a Mediterranean flair that’s absolutely divine.