The aroma wafting from the kitchen was enough to stop anyone in their tracks. “What’s that?” my partner asked, peering over my shoulder with a curious grin. I was putting the finishing touches on my Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary—a side dish that promises not only a stunning presentation but also a delightful crunch that no one can resist. These golden gems are both fluffy inside and crunchy outside, making them a fantastic crowd-pleaser for gatherings or weeknight dinners. You’ll love how effortlessly they come together—perfect for when you’re looking to elevate your meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to discover the secret to creating the ultimate crispy texture? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
What makes these potatoes so special?
Addictive Texture: The crispy outer layer gives a satisfying crunch, while the soft, fluffy interior creates the perfect bite.
Versatile Flavor: Not only is this recipe a delicious base, but you can easily customize it with different herbs like thyme or even spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time—ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy your guests, just like our Comfort Garlic Potatoes or Parmesan Chicken Potatoes.
Healthy Side Dish: Gluten-free and vegetarian, these potatoes fit seamlessly into a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Try serving them alongside your favorite grilled meats or with a creamy dip, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Ingredients
• Discover the essential ingredients for making perfectly crispy smashed potatoes.
For the Potatoes
- Baby Gold Potatoes – Their creamy interior is perfect for smashing; feel free to swap in red or purple potatoes for variety.
For the Seasoning
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in achieving that ideal crispiness; can be replaced with avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor.
- Chopped Fresh Rosemary (or Dried) – Grants aromatic flavor; thyme or oregano are great alternatives if you prefer a different herb.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the flavor with a mild essence of garlic; substitute fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish; adjust to your personal taste for best results.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice; using white pepper can give a different flavor profile.
Make these crispy smashed potatoes to impress your family and friends while enjoying a delicious, gluten-free side dish!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure your Crispy Smashed Potatoes achieve that delightful crunch on the outside. While the oven heats, you can prepare the potatoes, making sure everything is ready for roasting.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place the baby gold potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until they are fork-tender, typically about 10–12 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes thoroughly and let them dry for a few minutes to avoid sogginess.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Return the drained potatoes to the pot while they are still warm. Add a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, along with chopped fresh rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Shake the pot gently to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasoning. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into your crispy smashed potatoes.
Step 4: Smash and Roast
Transfer the seasoned potatoes to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a fork or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato to create a flat, irregular shape. Drizzle a little extra oil on top to help them crisp up, then place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 30–45 minutes, turning the potatoes halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
As the potatoes roast, keep an eye on them, especially towards the end of the cooking time. You want them to have a lovely golden color and a satisfying crunch. Adjust the roasting time as needed—each oven may vary slightly. Once they’re perfectly crispy, remove them from the oven.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Crispy Smashed Potatoes to cool for a minute before serving. These golden gems make a fantastic side dish or appetizer. Whether accompanying a hearty entrée or enjoyed as a standalone treat, their addictive crunch is sure to please your family and friends.
What to Serve with Crispy Smashed Potatoes
There’s nothing quite like the crunch of these golden gems to elevate your meal; let’s explore the perfect pairings to complement their deliciousness.
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Grilled Lemon Chicken: The zesty flavor cuts through the richness of the potatoes, making for a balanced plate. This pairing creates a harmonious mix of textures and tastes, leaving everyone satisfied.
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Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned, these green spears add a fresh, vibrant note to your meal. Their tender-crisp bite beautifully contrasts the crispy smashed potatoes.
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Creamy Garlic Dip: A rich and savory side, perfect for those who love to dip! This creamy sauce enhances the potatoes while adding a wonderful garlicky richness.
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Beef Tenderloin: With its juicy tender bites, this upscale meat option brings a touch of elegance to your table. The flavors together create an unforgettable dining experience.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, crisp side that cools down the palate. The bright flavors of cucumbers and herbs pair wonderfully with the hearty potatoes.
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Red Wine: A fruity red complements the earthy tones of the potatoes, enhancing their flavor profile. Wine lovers will enjoy the bold marriage of flavors at any dinner table.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a rich, creamy note. The decadent chocolate sweetness beautifully contrasts the savory crispy potatoes.
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Garlic Aioli: This silky dip adds an irresistible garlic kick to every bite. It’s the perfect balance to enhance the flavors of these crunchy potatoes.
Choose any of these delicious companions for your crispy smashed potatoes and create a joyful gathering around your dinner table!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the potatoes by boiling and seasoning them up to 24 hours in advance. After boiling until fork-tender, drain and let them cool completely, then toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply smash them on a baking sheet, drizzle with a bit more oil, and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 30–45 minutes until golden and crisp. This way, you’ll still have that delightful crunch without the last-minute fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps preserve their flavor while minimizing moisture absorption.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To regain their delightful crunch, reheat from the fridge or frozen in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until heated through—about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy those crispy smashed potatoes like they were just made!
Freshness Tip: For the best quality, try to enjoy your crispy smashed potatoes right after cooking, as that’s when they are at their most irresistible.
Tips for the Best Crispy Smashed Potatoes
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Dry Potatoes Well: After boiling, ensure that your potatoes are dried properly to prevent sogginess. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
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Smash Creatively: Use a fork or the bottom of a glass to smash the potatoes. Varying the shape creates more edges that will crisp up deliciously.
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Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on the potatoes as they roast, especially during the last 10 minutes, to achieve your desired level of crispiness without burning.
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Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices like smoked paprika. This versatility can elevate your crispy smashed potatoes to a whole new level!
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Use a Good Baking Sheet: A heavy-duty baking sheet helps distribute heat evenly, ensuring every potato gets that perfect golden crunch.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—there are so many delicious ways to switch things up!
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Potato Variety: Swap baby gold potatoes for red, purple, or even sweet potatoes for a fun twist. Each variety brings its unique flavor and texture.
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Herb Swap: Use thyme or dill instead of rosemary for a refreshing aroma. Experimenting with herbs can entirely change the essence of your potatoes!
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Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the seasoning for a delightful smoky kick. This spice adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the crispy texture.
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Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top during the last few minutes of roasting for a savory, cheesy finish. It’s a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for those who like it hot. Adjust the heat level according to your family’s preference for an exciting flavor profile.
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Vegan Option: Swap out the olive oil for avocado oil and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan-friendly take that’s bursting with flavor.
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Garlic Boost: Instead of garlic powder, use fresh minced garlic for a more intense, aromatic flavor. Just toss it in with the seasoning before roasting.
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Extra Crispy: For an ultra-crispy edge, give these potatoes a light dusting of cornstarch or baking powder before roasting. They’ll turn out even crunchier!
Dive into these variations and make these crispy smashed potatoes a cherished staple in your home, just like our mouthwatering Chilli Beef Experience or Korean Fried Chicken. Enjoy the journey of flavors!
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes are best for crispy smashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Baby gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe since they have a creamy interior that holds up beautifully when smashed. You can also use red or purple potatoes for a colorful twist, giving a unique taste and texture.
How should I store leftover crispy smashed potatoes?
Very simply! Place your leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps them delicious while preventing them from absorbing moisture.
Can I freeze crispy smashed potatoes?
Yes, you can! First, allow the potatoes to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid. Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to a freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months. It’s a great way to enjoy them later!
How do I reheat crispy smashed potatoes?
Reheating is key to regaining that delicious crunch! From the fridge, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. If they were frozen, they may need an extra few minutes.
What if my smashed potatoes are soggy?
Not to worry! If your potatoes turn out soggy, it often means they weren’t dried enough after boiling. Next time, make sure to drain them well and let them dry for a few minutes before seasoning and roasting. You can also give them an extra roast for additional crispness!
Are crispy smashed potatoes safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a great choice for diverse diets. Just be sure to check any seasoning blends or additional sauces for hidden gluten or allergens if you are serving others with special dietary needs.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes: Irresistibly Crunchy, Easy to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil the baby gold potatoes in a large pot of cold water until fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and let dry.
- Return dried potatoes to pot. Add olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shake to coat evenly.
- Transfer potatoes to a lined baking sheet and smash each potato. Drizzle with more oil and roast for 30–45 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway.
- Check for doneness by ensuring they are golden and crispy. Adjust roasting time as necessary.
- Cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy with your favorite entrees or as a snack.