These Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes are the perfect blend of golden, garlicky flavor and crunchy texture. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this dish shines as both a side and an appetizer. With their fluffy centers and crispy edges, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Potatoes
- For Garnish
- How to Make Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
- Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
- Step 4: Add Seasoning & Cheese
- Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
- Step 6: Garnish & Serve
- How to Serve Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- With Dipping Sauces
- As a Side Dish
- In a Salad
- How to Perfect Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- Best Side Dishes for Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- Reheating Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
- What dips pair well with Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes?
- How do I ensure my smashed potatoes are evenly cooked?
- Can I customize the toppings on my Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these potatoes can be made in under an hour.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory taste that elevates any meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a side dish or appetizer, perfect for any occasion from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
- Customizable Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with spices or herbs to match your taste preferences.
- Crispy Texture: The smashing technique ensures each potato has plenty of surface area for that delightful crunch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin cooking your Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Large pot
- Potato masher or glass
- Small bowl
- Brush for oil
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and browning of the smashed potatoes.
- Potato masher or glass: Helps achieve the perfect smashed texture for extra crispiness.
- Small bowl: Ideal for mixing seasonings without creating a mess.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 1½ pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon Gold)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
1. Add baby potatoes to the boiling water.
2. Cook for 15–20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
While the potatoes are cooling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with olive oil.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Place the cooled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
1. Gently flatten each potato with a glass or potato masher until they are about ½-inch thick.
Step 4: Add Seasoning & Cheese
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
1. Brush this mixture generously over each smashed potato.
2. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over all potatoes.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
1. Bake for 25–30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. For extra crunchiness, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces like sour cream, aioli, or spicy mayo for an irresistible treat!
How to Serve Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes are not just a delightful side dish; they can also be a star on your appetizer table. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your guests and elevate your meal.
With Dipping Sauces
- Sour Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and tang.
- Aioli: This garlic mayonnaise pairs perfectly with the potatoes’ flavors.
- Spicy Mayo: For those who love a kick, mix mayo with sriracha for a zesty dip.
As a Side Dish
- Grilled Chicken: The crispy texture complements juicy grilled chicken beautifully.
- Steak: Serve alongside a perfectly cooked steak for a hearty meal.
- Vegetarian Chili: These potatoes add texture and flavor to a warm bowl of chili.
In a Salad
- Warm Potato Salad: Toss with fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette for a unique take on potato salad.
- Greek Salad: Add smashed potatoes to your Greek salad for an interesting twist.
How to Perfect Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
Getting the perfect texture and flavor from your Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes is easier than you think. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time.
- Use Small Potatoes: Baby potatoes cook evenly and smash beautifully, providing the ideal base for crispiness.
- Boil Until Tender: Make sure the potatoes are fork-tender before smashing; this prevents them from being too hard or mushy after baking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each potato space to crisp up nicely—this helps achieve that desired golden crunch.
- Brush Generously with Oil: Ensuring each potato is well-coated in oil aids in achieving maximum crispiness during baking.
- Broil at the End: A quick broil at the end can enhance the crunch factor significantly—just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes, making meals more satisfying. Here are some great options that complement their flavors perfectly.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds freshness and color to your plate.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor matches well with crispy potatoes, creating a robust side experience.
- Caesar Salad: A crunchy Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the potatoes.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw offers a delightful texture balance alongside these smashed delights.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: For carb lovers, garlic bread is an indulgent addition that rounds out any meal nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes, avoiding common mistakes can ensure the best results. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of:
Using the wrong potatoes: Always choose baby potatoes like red or Yukon Gold. Other types may not yield the same fluffy texture and crispiness.
Not boiling long enough: Ensure that you boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Under-cooked potatoes won’t smash well and will result in uneven cooking.
Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your oil mix! Proper seasoning enhances flavor, so take time to brush it generously over each potato.
Crowding the baking sheet: Leave space between smashed potatoes on your baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, resulting in crispy edges.
Ignoring broiling for crunch: For an extra crunchy finish, use the broil setting for a few minutes at the end. Just be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow potatoes to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Make sure they are fully cooled before freezing.
Reheating Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare these potatoes ahead by following all steps up to baking. Store them in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for optimal crispiness.
What dips pair well with Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes?
These delicious potatoes go great with sour cream, aioli, or spicy mayo. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sauces!
How do I ensure my smashed potatoes are evenly cooked?
Boiling them until fork-tender is key. Also, smashing them evenly ensures they cook uniformly when baked.
Can I customize the toppings on my Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can add different cheeses or herbs according to your taste preferences. Get creative with spices as well!
Final Thoughts
Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes offer a delightful combination of texture and flavor that makes them suitable for any occasion. Their versatility allows for numerous customization options based on your favorite toppings and dips. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious side dish or appetizer that everyone will love!
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Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes are a delicious and versatile dish that combines fluffy interiors with irresistibly crunchy edges. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are packed with garlicky goodness and topped with Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, they can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a side dish, complemented by your favorite dips such as sour cream or aioli. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing snack that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon Gold)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased with olive oil.
- Smash each potato gently until about ½-inch thick on the baking sheet.
- Mix olive oil, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika in a small bowl; brush over each smashed potato.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Optional: Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for extra crunch.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato (70g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
