Smashed Potatoes

These smashed potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic side dish. They offer tender, fluffy insides with a crispy exterior, making them perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday feasts. With their unique preparation method and irresistible garlic and herb butter topping, these smashed potatoes are sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Boiling and smashing potatoes is simple and requires minimal effort.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, herbs, and parmesan creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Crispy Texture: Roasting the smashed potatoes gives them a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft inside.
• Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, making them suitable for any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Smashed potatoes look stunning on the plate, adding an elegant touch to your dining experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making these irresistible smashed potatoes, gather your tools. Having everything set up will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Sheet pan
• Cooking spray
• Potato masher or glass
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling baby potatoes until they are tender without crowding.
• Sheet pan: Provides ample space for roasting the smashed potatoes while ensuring even cooking.
• Potato masher or glass: Essential for flattening the boiled potatoes to achieve that crispy texture.

Ingredients

These smashed potatoes come together with just a few simple ingredients that pack a punch.

For the Potatoes

• 1 pound baby potatoes (such as red potatoes or Yukon Gold)

For the Topping

• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

For Cooking

• cooking spray

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the baby potatoes and cook for 18-22 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

1. While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.
2. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and place them in a single layer on the prepared pan.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

1. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to carefully flatten each potato until it’s about half an inch thick.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Flavor the Potatoes

1. Drizzle the butter mixture generously over each smashed potato.
2. Sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese over each potato for added flavor.

Step 7: Roast Until Crispy

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
2. Once done, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious smashed potatoes as a perfect side dish!

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are a delightful side dish that can complement various main courses. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them versatile and enjoyable for any meal.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken breast pairs beautifully with smashed potatoes, creating a satisfying and balanced plate.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing the flavors of the smashed potatoes.

Serve Alongside Beef Stew

• The richness of beef stew contrasts nicely with the crispy texture of smashed potatoes, making for a comforting meal.

Top with Sour Cream and Chives

• A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives elevate the flavor profile, adding creaminess to each bite.

How to Perfect Smashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect smashed potatoes involves a few simple techniques. With these tips, you can ensure your dish is always a hit.

• Choose the right potatoes – Baby potatoes like red or Yukon Gold work best as they hold their shape after boiling.
• Don’t skip the boiling – Boiling until tender ensures that your smashed potatoes are soft enough to crush while still maintaining structure.
• Preheat your oven – A hot oven is crucial for achieving that crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside fluffy.
• Use quality butter – Using good-quality butter enhances the flavor significantly; consider using unsalted butter for better control over seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes pair well with various side dishes that can round out your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection add a fresh and vibrant touch.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli is both nutritious and visually appealing when served alongside smashed potatoes.
3. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad featuring seasonal greens provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet, glazed carrots complement the savory taste of smashed potatoes beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob – Juicy corn on the cob adds sweetness and fun to your plate, making it a family favorite.
6. Herb Couscous – Light and fluffy couscous infused with fresh herbs offers an elegant side that pairs well with smashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making smashed potatoes, certain missteps can lead to less than optimal results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the boiling step: Boiling ensures the potatoes are tender before smashing. If you skip this step, your potatoes may not cook evenly.
• Not using enough seasoning: Proper seasoning enhances flavor. Be sure to salt the water while boiling and season generously before baking.
• Overcooking in the oven: Baking too long can dry out the potatoes. Keep an eye on them and remove once they turn golden brown and crispy.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t coat the potatoes well. Always melt your butter before mixing it with garlic and herbs.
• Flattening unevenly: Smashed potatoes should be uniform in thickness for even cooking. Use a consistent pressure when smashing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Smashed Potatoes

• Freeze smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label bags with dates for easy identification.

Reheating Smashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1-2 minutes), checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of oil or butter, and cook until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about smashed potatoes:

What are Smashed Potatoes?

Smashed potatoes are baby potatoes that are boiled until tender, then flattened and roasted until crispy, creating a delicious side dish.

Can I customize my Smashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs, spices, or cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my Smashed Potatoes stay crispy?

For maximum crispiness, make sure they are flattened evenly and baked until golden brown. Using melted butter also helps achieve that desired crunch.

Are Smashed Potatoes healthy?

Smashed potatoes can be a nutritious side dish when made with fresh ingredients and moderate amounts of butter and cheese.

Final Thoughts

These smashed potatoes offer a delightful twist on traditional potato recipes, providing both flavor and texture. With their versatility, you can easily customize them with your favorite herbs or toppings. Try making smashed potatoes today; they’re sure to impress at any meal!

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Smashed Potatoes

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Smashed potatoes are a delightful and modern twist on the classic side dish that everyone will love. These tender, fluffy potatoes boast a crispy exterior, making them an irresistible addition to any meal—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Infused with savory garlic and herb butter, each bite is packed with flavor that is sure to impress your guests. Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can pair beautifully with grilled meats, hearty stews, or roasted vegetables. With minimal effort required for preparation, you can easily elevate your dining experience with these stunning smashed potatoes.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound baby potatoes (red or Yukon Gold)
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnishing
• Cooking spray

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Instructions

1. Boil the baby potatoes in salted water for 18-22 minutes until tender. Drain well.
2. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.
3. Arrange the boiled potatoes on the pan and gently smash each one to about half an inch thick.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle the butter mixture over each potato and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
6. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg