Smashed Potatoes

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There’s something truly magical about the humble potato, especially when it’s transformed into these Crispy Herb-Infused Smashed Potatoes. With a golden, crispy exterior and a fluffy, tender inside, this dish offers the best of both worlds. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of butter, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, these potatoes are a comforting and versatile side dish.

Whether you’re serving them alongside chicken, pork, steak, or a vegetarian main, these smashed potatoes add a burst of flavor and texture to any meal. The preparation is simple, yet the result is utterly satisfying—a dish that brings comfort to the table while impressing guests with its rustic charm.

Full Recipe:

8 small Yukon gold potatoes, washed (about 1 ½ lbs)

1 tablespoon salt (for boiling the potatoes)
Salt and pepper (for seasoning the potatoes)

Topping:

2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon ground sage

Directions:

Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Stir in the salt and add the potatoes. Let them bubble gently until tender, about 25 minutes.

Gently drain the potatoes and let the steam escape for 5 minutes. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Transfer the potatoes to a light-colored, lightly greased baking sheet. Use the bottom of a jar or glass to smash each potato down. Let the steam escape for another 5 minutes.
Combine the melted butter, olive oil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and sage. Brush the mixture generously over the potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake the potatoes for 40-45 minutes, until they reach a golden crispiness. Optional: Brush with 1 more tablespoon of melted butter during the last 10 minutes.
Serve hot with your favorite main dish!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Kcal: 106 kcal per potato | Servings: 8 smashed potatoes

Why You’ll Love Smashed Potatoes

Smashed Potatoes are the perfect combination of crispy and creamy, offering a delicious twist on the classic roasted potato. The technique of boiling and then smashing the potatoes ensures that they stay fluffy on the inside while developing a crispy, golden crust when roasted in the oven. They are versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes, making them a crowd-pleasing side option for both casual family dinners and special holiday meals.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

The best potatoes for this recipe are Yukon Gold potatoes or small red potatoes. Yukon Golds are particularly great because they have a natural creaminess and buttery flavor that enhances the dish. They also hold up well to boiling and smashing without falling apart. If you prefer a more rustic texture, small red potatoes are a good alternative. Aim for potatoes that are uniform in size for even cooking and smashing.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about Smashed Potatoes is that they can be made ahead of time, making meal prep easier:

Make-Ahead Method: Boil the potatoes up to 2 days in advance. Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply smash, season, and roast them in the oven.
Storage: Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F oven for 6-8 minutes until heated through. While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, reheating them in the oven helps retain their crispy texture.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delicious on its own, it’s also highly customizable:

Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
Bacon Lovers: Add crispy bacon bits over the top right before serving for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.

Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives to create a variety of flavor profiles.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic powder or add freshly minced garlic to the butter mixture for an extra garlicky kick.

Serving Suggestions

Smashed Potatoes make an excellent side dish for a wide range of meals:

For a Cozy Dinner: Serve alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or steak for a comforting, hearty meal.
For a Vegetarian Option: Pair with a protein-rich dish like quinoa-stuffed bell peppers or a hearty lentil stew.
For Entertaining: Add these potatoes to your holiday spread or a dinner party menu—they’re sure to be a hit with guests.

Pro Tips for Perfect Smashed Potatoes

Boil Gently: A gentle boil helps cook the potatoes evenly without breaking them apart. The goal is to make them fork-tender while keeping them intact for smashing.
Smash to Your Preference: The thickness of the smashed potatoes will determine their texture. Thicker potatoes will be fluffier in the middle, while thinner ones will be crispier.
Butter Generously: Don’t skimp on the butter and oil mixture—it’s key to achieving that crispy, flavorful crust.

Nutritional Information

For those who are health-conscious, each smashed potato contains approximately:

Calories: 106 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g

Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 900mg

Fun Fact

Did you know that smashed potatoes are a popular comfort food in many cuisines? They offer a unique textural experience that mashed or roasted potatoes alone can’t quite match. By using simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can transform basic potatoes into a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying.

History and Origin of Smashed Potatoes

While smashed potatoes have gained popularity in recent years as a trendy side dish, the concept of smashing and roasting potatoes can be traced back to various cultures that have long embraced potatoes as a dietary staple. The idea of smashing boiled potatoes before roasting them likely evolved from the desire to create a texture that combines the fluffiness of mashed potatoes with the crispiness of roasted potatoes. This cooking method maximizes the surface area of the potatoes, allowing them to soak up more flavor from seasonings and create an irresistible golden crust.

Dietary Considerations

Smashed Potatoes can be a part of various diets and are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Here are some ways to adapt this dish to fit different dietary preferences:

Vegan Option: To make the recipe vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. The combination of olive oil and herbs will still provide that delicious flavor and crispy texture.
Low-Sodium Adaptation: If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can reduce the amount of salt used for boiling and seasoning. Substitute with other herbs and spices like paprika, garlic powder, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor without adding more salt.

Keto and Low-Carb: While potatoes are higher in carbs, smashed potatoes can still be enjoyed in moderation on a keto or low-carb diet, especially when balanced with other low-carb, high-fat dishes. Consider pairing them with a protein-rich main course to create a more balanced meal.

Perfect Pairings for Smashed Potatoes

Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of main dishes to suit different occasions:

With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled steak, chicken, or pork chops for a hearty meal. The crispy texture of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the juiciness of grilled meats.

With Seafood: Pair with baked or grilled salmon, shrimp skewers, or garlic butter scallops. The subtle herb flavors in the potatoes complement the delicate taste of seafood.
For Breakfast or Brunch: Top the smashed potatoes with a fried egg, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of cheese to create a savory and filling breakfast dish.
As a Tapas-Style Appetizer: Serve mini smashed potatoes as part of a tapas or appetizer spread. Drizzle with a garlic aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.

Cooking Tips for Best Results

Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the perfect crispy smashed potatoes every time:

Use a Light-Colored Baking Sheet: A light-colored baking sheet helps reflect heat evenly, ensuring that the potatoes cook consistently without burning. It also helps achieve a golden-brown finish.
Let the Steam Escape: After boiling, let the steam escape from the potatoes for a few minutes before smashing them. This step removes excess moisture, which helps the potatoes become crispier during roasting.

Brush, Don’t Pour: When adding the butter and oil mixture, use a pastry brush to coat the potatoes evenly. Pouring the mixture can result in soggy spots, while brushing ensures even coverage and a crisp finish.
Add Toppings After Baking: For toppings like cheese, bacon, or chives, add them immediately after the potatoes come out of the oven. This allows the cheese to melt slightly and the herbs to retain their fresh flavor.

Creative Variations to Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun twists to try with your smashed potatoes:

Buffalo Smashed Potatoes: After baking, drizzle the potatoes with buffalo sauce and top with crumbled blue cheese for a spicy twist.
Garlic Parmesan: Mix freshly grated Parmesan and minced garlic into the butter mixture before brushing it on the potatoes. Sprinkle additional Parmesan over the top before baking.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top the roasted potatoes with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and sliced green onions for a loaded baked potato experience in every bite.

Mediterranean Style: Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired side dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Potatoes

Potatoes are often underrated when it comes to their nutritional value. They are a great source of:

Vitamin C: An essential antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.

Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and supports healthy heart function.
Fiber: When eaten with the skin on, potatoes provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
B Vitamins: Potatoes contain vitamins like B6, which are important for brain health and metabolism.

Conclusion

Smashed Potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that combines crispy edges with a fluffy center, making them a perfect accompaniment to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy them with herbs, cheese, or a spicy twist, these potatoes are sure to become a favorite on your table.