Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These smashed potatoes hit every note of flavor and texture. The crispy, golden crust gives way to a soft and tender interior, making every bite irresistible. The addition of melted butter, olive oil, and a sprinkle of seasoning elevates the flavor to new heights. Whether you enjoy them as-is or with an optional garnish of parsley, these potatoes are both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for when you need something easy but extraordinary, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the potatoes:
- 700g small potatoes
- 1–1.2kg medium potatoes
For cooking:
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- 30g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¾ tsp salt (for sprinkling)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional:
- Garlic powder
- Flaky sea salt
- Parsley
Directions
- Boil the potatoes: Place the small and medium potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil for 20–30 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and let them dry for 5 minutes.
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 200°C / 390°F (or 180°C fan).
- Smash the potatoes: On a baking tray, gently press the boiled potatoes with a masher or fork until they are slightly smashed. Let them sit for another 5 minutes to allow the edges to firm up a bit.
- Season and butter up: Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Bake to golden bliss: Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, until they are deeply golden and crisp. Don’t flip them—let the heat do the work to get that crispy texture.
- Garnish and serve: If you feel like it, garnish with fresh parsley. If not, serve the potatoes as-is, warm and unapologetically crispy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 40-55 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 25 minutes
Variations
- For extra flavor: Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to the seasoning for a unique twist.
- For a different texture: Use a potato masher to create different levels of smash. Press more gently for thicker potato chunks or harder for a crispier finish.
- For a creamy topping: Top the potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of blue cheese sauce for added richness.
Storage/Reheating
- Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place them in a hot oven (around 180°C / 350°F) for 10–15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can crisp them up again in a hot pan with a bit of olive oil.
FAQs
Can I use any type of potato for this recipe?
While small and medium potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use any variety of waxy potatoes for the best texture. Russet potatoes can work as well, though they may be a bit fluffier.
Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time. Simply store them in the fridge and roast them just before serving.
Do I need to flip the potatoes while baking?
No, flipping the potatoes is unnecessary. The heat from the oven will crisp up the smashed sides without needing to turn them.
Can I freeze smashed potatoes?
While the texture may change after freezing and reheating, you can freeze the boiled and smashed potatoes. Reheat them directly from the freezer and roast them in the oven for best results.
Can I make these potatoes without butter?
You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter option. The result will still be crispy and delicious.
Can I add cheese to these potatoes?
Yes! Grated Parmesan or crumbled blue cheese can be added before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
The potatoes are ready when they have a deep golden-brown color and a crispy texture on the outside. They should be tender on the inside.
Can I make these potatoes spicier?
Yes, you can sprinkle chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika for added heat.
Can I skip the parsley garnish?
Absolutely! The parsley is an optional garnish, but the potatoes are perfectly delicious without it.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Sweet potatoes can be used for a variation, but they may require a shorter cooking time. Adjust accordingly based on the size and type of sweet potato you’re using.
Conclusion
Smashed Potatoes are a must-try for any potato lover. With their crispy, buttery exterior and soft, fluffy inside, these potatoes are the perfect comfort food to elevate any meal. Whether you enjoy them simply seasoned or with added toppings, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends.
Smashed Potatoes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes - 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, golden, and buttery smashed potatoes with a soft, fluffy interior. A comfort food staple, these potatoes are perfect for any occasion, easy to make, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
700g small potatoes
1–1.2kg medium potatoes
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
30g unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp olive oil
¾ tsp salt (for sprinkling)
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: Garlic powder, Flaky sea salt, Parsley
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes: Place the small and medium potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil for 20–30 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and let them dry for 5 minutes.
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 200°C / 390°F (or 180°C fan).
- Smash the potatoes: On a baking tray, gently press the boiled potatoes with a masher or fork until they are slightly smashed. Let them sit for another 5 minutes to allow the edges to firm up a bit.
- Season and butter up: Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Bake to golden bliss: Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, until they are deeply golden and crisp. Don’t flip them—let the heat do the work to get that crispy texture.
- Garnish and serve: If you feel like it, garnish with fresh parsley. If not, serve the potatoes as-is, warm and unapologetically crispy.
Notes
For extra flavor, add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to the seasoning.
Use a potato masher to create different levels of smash for varied textures.
Top the potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of blue cheese sauce for added richness.
Can be made ahead by boiling and smashing the potatoes in advance, then roasting just before serving.
Freezing the potatoes is possible, but the texture may change slightly after reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
