Name: Best Smashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds small Yukon Gold potatoes, about 1.5-2 inches in diameter; 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Flaky sea salt, for finishing; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Best Smashed Potatoes: Prepare to have your potato expectations completely redefined! Forget everything you thought you knew about mashed, baked, or even roasted potatoes. We're diving headfirst into a world of crispy edges, creamy interiors, and flavor explosions that will leave you craving more. These aren't your grandma's potatoes (unless your grandma is secretly a culinary genius, of course!).

While the exact origins of smashed potatoes are a bit murky, the concept of flattening and then roasting potatoes has likely been around for ages in various cultures. Think of the rustic charm of peasant cooking, where resourcefulness and maximizing flavor were paramount. This dish embodies that spirit perfectly, transforming humble potatoes into something truly extraordinary.

So, what makes these best smashed potatoes so irresistible? It's the delightful contrast of textures! The edges become incredibly crispy and golden brown, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Meanwhile, the inside remains fluffy and tender, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, they're incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite herbs, spices, and toppings. Whether you're looking for a simple side dish for a weeknight dinner or an impressive addition to your next gathering, these smashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to embark on a potato adventure!

Ingredients:

2 pounds small Yukon Gold potatoes, about 1.5-2 inches in diameter
6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Flaky sea salt, for finishing
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Potatoes:

Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris. You don't need to peel them, as the skins will become wonderfully crispy during the smashing and roasting process.
Boil the potatoes until tender. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your potatoes. You want them to be tender but not falling apart.
Drain the potatoes well. Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them in a colander. Allow them to steam dry for a few minutes to remove excess moisture. This will help them crisp up better in the oven.

Smashed Potato Seasoning and Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the potatoes are draining, preheat your oven to ensure it's ready when you need it.
Prepare the garlic herb oil. In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme. Stir well to combine. This aromatic oil will infuse the potatoes with incredible flavor.
Arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup easier. Arrange the drained potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each potato.
Smash the potatoes. Using the bottom of a glass, a potato masher, or a fork, gently smash each potato until it is about 1/2 inch thick. Be careful not to smash them too thin, or they may become too brittle and break apart. You want them to be flattened but still intact.
Brush with garlic herb oil. Brush each smashed potato generously with the garlic herb oil mixture. Make sure to get the oil into all the nooks and crannies. This will add flavor and help them crisp up beautifully.
Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the smashed potatoes with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Don't be shy with the seasoning, as this is what will bring out the flavor of the potatoes.
Add Parmesan cheese (optional). If you're using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the smashed potatoes. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, crispy crust.

Roasting the Smashed Potatoes:

Roast the potatoes. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent them from burning. The exact cooking time will depend on your oven.
Increase the oven temperature (optional). For extra crispy potatoes, you can increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. This will help them brown and crisp up even more. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
Check for doneness. The potatoes are done when they are golden brown, crispy around the edges, and easily pierced with a fork.

Finishing and Serving:

Remove from the oven. Once the potatoes are cooked to your liking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
Drizzle with remaining olive oil. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the smashed potatoes. This will add a touch of richness and shine.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Sprinkle the smashed potatoes with flaky sea salt for a final burst of flavor and texture.
Garnish with fresh parsley (optional). Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve immediately. Serve the smashed potatoes immediately while they are still hot and crispy. They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Tips for the Best Smashed Potatoes:

Choose the right potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for smashed potatoes because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well. Red potatoes also work well. Avoid using Russet potatoes, as they tend to be too dry and starchy.
Don't overcook the potatoes. You want the potatoes to be tender but not falling apart. Overcooked potatoes will be difficult to smash and may become mushy.
Use enough oil. The oil is essential for creating crispy potatoes. Don't be afraid to use a generous amount.
Smash them evenly. Try to smash the potatoes to a uniform thickness so they cook evenly.
Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Overcrowding the baking sheet will prevent the potatoes from browning properly. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking. You can also add other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
Get creative with toppings. Smashed potatoes are a blank canvas for toppings. Try adding crumbled bacon, sour cream, chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Variations:

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes: Add extra Parmesan cheese and garlic powder for a cheesy, garlicky flavor.
Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes: Use only rosemary and garlic for a simple and classic flavor combination.
Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Sweet Potato Smashed Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious option.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top the smashed potatoes with your favorite loaded baked potato toppings, such as sour cream, bacon, cheese, and chives.

Serving Suggestions:

Smashed potatoes make a delicious side dish for a variety of meals. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve them with grilled steak, chicken, or fish.
Serve them with roasted vegetables.
Serve them as a side dish for a holiday meal.
Serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce.
Serve them as a snack on their own.

Enjoy your perfectly smashed potatoes! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. They are always a crowd-pleaser and are so easy to make. Let me know in the comments below if you try them and what you think!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Best Smashed Potatoes are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The crispy edges, the fluffy interior, the burst of flavor from the herbs and garlic – it all comes together in a symphony of potato perfection. If you're looking for a side dish that's both comforting and impressive, look no further. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you're serving it at a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy holiday feast. But why are these smashed potatoes a must-try? It's simple: they're incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver maximum flavor. Forget peeling and boiling for ages! This method is quick, efficient, and yields a texture that's simply irresistible. Plus, the customizable nature of the recipe means you can adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Speaking of customization, let's talk serving suggestions and variations! These smashed potatoes are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of main courses. Imagine them alongside a juicy steak, a roasted chicken, or even a grilled salmon fillet. For a vegetarian option, try serving them with a hearty lentil stew or a flavorful vegetable curry. And the variations are endless! Want to add a little heat? Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before roasting. Craving something cheesy? A generous grating of Parmesan or Gruyere during the last few minutes of cooking will do the trick. For a vegan version, simply substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika all work wonderfully. Another fun variation is to use different types of potatoes. While Yukon Golds are my personal favorite for their creamy texture, red potatoes or even fingerling potatoes would also be delicious. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different potato varieties may require slightly longer or shorter roasting times. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations. The possibilities are truly endless! You can even make a batch of these smashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them just before serving. Simply roast them until they're almost done, then let them cool completely and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up. I'm so confident that you'll love these Best Smashed Potatoes that I urge you to try them out as soon as possible. Seriously, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience potato bliss. Once you've made them, I'd love to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you come up with your own unique twist? Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag] so I can see your creations. I can't wait to see what you come up with! Happy cooking! And remember, the key to truly amazing smashed potatoes is to not be afraid to really smash them! Get in there and give them a good press – that's what creates those irresistible crispy edges. Enjoy!