Perfectly Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs small potatoes
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Place potatoes in a large pot, and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes and let them dry for a few minutes.
  4. Arrange the boiled potatoes on a baking sheet. Using a potato masher or a fork, carefully smash each potato.
  5. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Brush each potato with the garlic-butter mixture.
  7. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary and thyme over the smashed potatoes.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy.
  9. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese.
  10. Serve the smashed potatoes hot and enjoy.

Tools for making

  • Potato masher - Used to smash the boiled potatoes.
  • Baking sheet - Used to arrange and bake the smashed potatoes in the oven.
  • Small bowl - Used to combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  • Brush - Used to brush the garlic-butter mixture onto the smashed potatoes.
  • Grater - Used to grate the Parmesan cheese.

Recipe variations

  • Herb Variations:
    • Replace the rosemary and thyme with fresh basil and oregano for an Italian twist.
    • Try using dill and parsley for a more herby and refreshing flavor.
    • Experiment with different herbs like sage, tarragon, or chives to create your own unique flavor combination.
  • Cheese Variations:
    • Substitute Parmesan cheese with crumbled feta for a tangy and salty taste.
    • Use shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a gooey and melty topping.
    • Try a combination of different cheeses like Gruyere and Fontina for a rich and indulgent flavor.
  • Spice Variations:
    • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
    • Sprinkle some paprika or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
    • Experiment with different spice blends like Cajun seasoning or curry powder for a unique twist.
  • Vegetable Variations:
    • Add sautéed onions or caramelized onions for extra flavor and sweetness.
    • Mix in roasted bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and taste.
    • Include steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots for added nutrition.
  • Garlic Variations:
    • For garlic lovers, double the amount of minced garlic for an intense garlic flavor.
    • Use roasted garlic cloves instead of raw garlic for a milder and sweeter taste.
    • Infuse the garlic-butter mixture with garlic powder or garlic salt for an extra punch of flavor.

Recipe overview

These Smashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on the traditional roasted potato dish, offering a crispy outer layer with a fluffy and tender inside. Infused with a garlic-butter mix and a hint of fresh rosemary and thyme, each bite delivers a burst of flavor that complements any main course. Topped with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, this dish elevates the humble potato into a gourmet side. This recipe requires simple, readily available ingredients and follows an easy process. Whether you're preparing a family dinner or hosting an event, these Smashed Potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy the combination of textures and flavors in this delectable side dish.

Common questions

  1. Can I use larger potatoes instead of small potatoes? Yes, you can use larger potatoes, but keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted. Larger potatoes may take longer to become fork-tender.
  2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs? Yes, you can use dried herbs if you don't have fresh ones on hand. However, keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent, so you may want to use smaller amounts.
  3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Cheddar, Gouda, or even blue cheese can be great alternatives to Parmesan.
  4. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time? While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can partially prepare them in advance. Boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then refrigerate them. When you're ready to serve, proceed with brushing them with the garlic-butter mixture, sprinkling with herbs, and baking in the oven.
  5. Can I reheat the leftovers? Yes, you can reheat the leftovers in the oven or on a stovetop. To maintain their crispiness, it's recommended to reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking Sheet - Used to arrange and bake the smashed potatoes.
  • Potato Masher - A utensil used to smash the boiled potatoes.
  • Small Bowl - Used to combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  • Brush - Used to brush the garlic-butter mixture onto the smashed potatoes.
  • Grater - Used to grate the Parmesan cheese.

Origin stories

Smashed potatoes, a delectable and comforting side dish, have roots in numerous culinary traditions. Their simplicity and versatility have made them popular all over the world. One might argue that the method of smashing potatoes and then roasting them to crispy perfection was born out of necessity and frugality. In times past, making the most of available resources was vital. Leftover boiled potatoes could be transformed, with just a little fat and a hot oven, into a dish that was more than the sum of its parts. Today, smashed potatoes are celebrated not just for their thriftiness, but for their delightful contrast of fluffy interior and crispy exterior, a testament to the transformative power of simple, rustic cooking.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.