If you’ve ever dreamed of bite-sized potatoes with irresistibly golden, crunchy edges and fluffy, creamy centers, Crispy Smashed Potatoes are about to become your new obsession. This easy, comforting dish transforms humble baby potatoes into a crave-worthy side that’s equal parts rustic and elegant. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick smash, you’ll create a snack, appetizer, or side dish that everyone will be reaching for—no matter the occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Crispy Smashed Potatoes is in their simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role, lending flavor, texture, or color to every bite. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a little tip for each one to ensure potato perfection.
- Baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red): Their thin skin and creamy flesh make them ideal for smashing and crisping up beautifully in the oven.
- Olive oil: Essential for that shatteringly crisp exterior and a rich, savory depth.
- Garlic powder: Adds a mellow garlicky punch that seeps into every crevice.
- Onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and a hint of umami to balance the other flavors.
- Salt: Don’t skimp—seasoning is key for drawing out the earthy potato flavor.
- Black pepper: Gives a gentle kick; freshly cracked is best for extra aroma.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkling this on top before baking adds a nutty, salty crispness that’s hard to resist.
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional): A final flourish of green not only brightens up the plate but adds a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prep and Boil the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the baby potatoes in a large pot of generously salted water and bring to a boil. Let them simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a fork. This step ensures each potato is soft enough to smash, but not so tender that they fall apart.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them well and let them cool just enough to handle. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little room between each one. Take a sturdy glass, mug, or measuring cup and gently press down on each potato until it’s about 1/2-inch thick. Smashing them lets the edges fray and crinkle, which is where all that irresistible crispiness will happen.
Step 3: Season and Oil
Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with olive oil—don’t be shy, as this is the secret to their golden, crunchy finish. Sprinkle over the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, making sure every potato is well coated. If you’re feeling indulgent, shower the tops with grated Parmesan for that extra savory crunch.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crisp
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are deep golden and ultra-crispy. For even more crunch, flip the potatoes halfway through baking. The transformation is magical: what started as soft, humble potatoes becomes a tray of Crispy Smashed Potatoes that practically beg to be snacked on.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, finish your potatoes with a scatter of chopped parsley or chives if you like a burst of fresh flavor and color. Serve them hot while their texture is at its crispy peak, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a light, herby brightness that complements the rich, savory notes of Crispy Smashed Potatoes. If you’re a cheese lover, try an extra dusting of Parmesan or even a little crumbled feta right before serving for a salty kick.
Side Dishes
These potatoes are incredibly versatile. Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a hearty dinner, or serve alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter meal. They’re also perfect with burgers or as a fun addition to a weekend brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little fancy, arrange the Crispy Smashed Potatoes on a platter and offer a trio of dipping sauces—think garlicky aioli, creamy sour cream, or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a party, serve them as bite-sized appetizers, topped with smoked salmon, a dollop of crème fraîche, or even a spoonful of caviar for a luxe twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you miraculously have leftovers, store your Crispy Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll lose a bit of their crispness, but don’t worry—there are easy ways to bring them back to life.
Freezing
While smashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if you like to meal prep. Arrange cooled potatoes on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. Just remember that the texture may be slightly less crispy after freezing.
Reheating
To recapture that signature crunch, reheat Crispy Smashed Potatoes in a hot oven (400°F) for about 10 minutes, or until sizzling and golden again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make them soggy. An air fryer is also a great option for reheating if you have one!
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut larger potatoes into golf ball-sized chunks before boiling and proceed as usual. Keep in mind that the texture and shape may vary a bit, but you’ll still get deliciously crispy results.
What’s the best way to smash the potatoes without them falling apart?
Let the boiled potatoes cool for a few minutes before smashing, and use gentle, even pressure with a flat-bottomed glass or mug. If a potato breaks apart, just nudge the pieces back together—they’ll crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Can I add other seasonings or toppings?
Definitely! Try smoked paprika, dried rosemary, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a new flavor twist. You can also add crumbled bacon or shredded cheddar during the last few minutes of baking for an indulgent upgrade.
Are Crispy Smashed Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you stick to the basic ingredients. Just double-check any optional toppings like store-bought cheese or seasonings to be certain.
Can I make Crispy Smashed Potatoes ahead of time for a party?
You can boil and smash the potatoes a few hours ahead, then cover and refrigerate them on the baking sheet. When ready to serve, simply season, oil, and bake as directed. This makes party prep a breeze!
Final Thoughts
Once you try making Crispy Smashed Potatoes at home, you’ll realize just how easy it is to upgrade your potato game. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself to a cozy night in, these golden bites are sure to become a repeat favorite. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making a double batch next time!
Print
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish featuring tender boiled baby potatoes smashed and baked to golden perfection. Seasoned with garlic and onion powders, and optionally topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, this recipe delivers a deliciously crunchy texture ideal for any meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
Seasonings and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Boil potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water and boil for 15–20 minutes until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain the water and let the potatoes cool slightly for easier handling.
- Smash potatoes: Transfer the cooked potatoes to the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass, mug, or measuring cup, gently press down on each potato until it is about 1/2-inch thick, being careful not to break them apart completely.
- Season and oil: Drizzle the smashed potatoes evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese if using, making sure to coat each smashed potato well.
- Bake potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potatoes for 25–30 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, flip the potatoes halfway through baking.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve the crispy smashed potatoes immediately as a savory side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, flip the potatoes halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- These potatoes pair perfectly with sour cream, garlic aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
- If Parmesan is not desired, feel free to omit it for a dairy-free version.
- Use Yukon Gold or red baby potatoes for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 batch
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
