Smashed potatoes are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, offering a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. When baked in the oven, they become the perfect side dish for any meal, providing both flavor and texture that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and full of customizable options, oven-baked smashed potatoes are a go-to recipe that elevates any dinner. Let’s explore how to make these irresistible potatoes that will steal the spotlight on your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we all love in smashed potatoes.
2. Boil the Potatoes
Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring the pot to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart.
3. Drain and Cool
Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes. This step helps to make them easier to handle and ensures they won’t break apart when you smash them.
4. Smash the Potatoes
On a lined baking sheet, arrange the potatoes with some space between them. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it flattens but is still intact. Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness for a good balance of crispiness and fluffiness.
5. Season and Bake
Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Toss gently to coat the potatoes evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Serve immediately as the perfect side dish to complement your main course!
Tips for Perfect Smashed Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes work best for smashing, but you can use larger potatoes cut into chunks.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try different seasonings, like Italian herbs or chili powder, to customize the flavor of your smashed potatoes.
- Make Ahead: You can boil the potatoes in advance, store them in the fridge, and smash and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure there’s enough space between each smashed potato to allow for even cooking and crispiness.