There's a certain joy that comes from transforming humble ingredients into a comforting dish, and that's exactly what you’ll find with these smashed potatoes. Picture the delightful crunch of crispy edges giving way to a fluffy center, all drizzled in golden olive oil and savory butter. When I first tried this recipe, I had a bag of baby Yukon Gold potatoes staring at me from the pantry, and I wanted something that felt both indulgent and uncomplicated.
This recipe delivers the perfect harmony of textures and flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser at any dinner table. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled chicken or enjoying it solo, these smashed potatoes are destined to become a new favorite in your home. Plus, they come together in just about 40 minutes, making them an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner when you're tired of the usual fast-food routine. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying dish that elevates any meal effortlessly!
Why You'll Love This Smashed Potatoes
- These smashed potatoes are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious side dish without any hassle.
- You'll be captivated by their delightful flavor, enhanced by the perfect blend of olive oil, butter, and fresh herbs.
- Their versatility shines as they complement a variety of main dishes or can simply be enjoyed on their own.
- Visually, they are stunning with their crispy golden edges and fluffy centers, making them an eye-catching addition to any meal.
- Simply put, these smashed potatoes are a time-saving option that doesn’t compromise on taste and will surely impress your family and friends.
Smashed Potatoes Ingredients
Get ready to create a delightful treat!
For the Potatoes
• Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes – the star of this dish, these creamy potatoes make the best foundation for smashing.
• Salt – enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes; don't skip it!
For the Seasoning
• Olive Oil – adds richness and helps achieve that crispy exterior; feel free to swap with avocado oil for a different flavor.
• Black Pepper – brings a subtle kick to balance out the creamy potatoes.
For the Finishing Touch
• Unsalted Butter – enriches the dish with a luxurious finish; you can use vegan butter as a substitute if desired.
• Fresh Chives or Rosemary – adds a fresh, aromatic touch; choose chives for a mild onion flavor or rosemary for an earthy note.
How to Make Smashed Potatoes
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Boil the Potatoes: Start by placing your baby Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil them for 15-20 minutes until they’re fork-tender; you want a soft center that can easily be smashed.
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Drain and Cool: Carefully drain the cooked potatoes and let them cool slightly. This helps to avoid burns when you’re ready to smash. Place them on a lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
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Smash the Potatoes: Gently press down on each potato with a fork or your palm to flatten them slightly. You want them to give a satisfying 'squish' but still hold their shape.
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Season Generously: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Be generous; this is where you enhance all that wonderful flavor, so don’t hold back!
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the potatoes for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them—your kitchen will smell amazing!
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Finish with Butter and Herbs: Once they are beautifully crispy, take the potatoes out and add knobs of unsalted butter on top. Sprinkle with your choice of fresh chives or rosemary, letting those herbs mingle with the richness of the butter before serving.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream for an extra rich treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are not just a dish on their own; they can be the centerpiece of a delightful meal that excites your taste buds!
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Grilled Chicken: The smoky, charred flavors of grilled chicken pair beautifully with crispy smashed potatoes, creating a satisfying, balanced plate.
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Steamed Broccoli: A splash of vibrant green helps brighten your meal, bringing a fresh crunch that complements the buttery texture of the potatoes.
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Ribeye Steak: Juicy, tender ribeye drizzled with herb-infused butter elevates the experience of smashed potatoes, making for an indulgent and hearty dinner.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp: Sweet shrimp tossed in garlic butter provide a rich, savory contrast to the flaky, crispy potatoes, tying in complementary flavors.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing create an easily manageable contrast to the hearty smashed potatoes.
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Mushroom Gravy: A luscious mushroom gravy offers warmth and earthiness, enhancing the potatoes' flavors while adding a silky texture.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and slightly tart, sparkling lemonade can cleanse your palate between bites, making every dish even more enjoyable!
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse rounds out the meal beautifully, offering a sweet finish that feels indulgent yet balanced.
Smashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and create your own version that captures your unique taste!
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Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative for a deliciously creamy texture without dairy.
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Garlic-Infused: Add minced garlic to the olive oil before drizzling over the potatoes for a fragrant and flavorful boost.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle a hot sauce over the smashed potatoes for an extra layer of heat.
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Cheesy Delight: Before baking, sprinkle shredded cheese like Parmesan or cheddar over the potatoes for a melty, indulgent finish.
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Herb Blend: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, enhancing the brightness and freshness of each bite.
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Bacon Lovers: Crumble crispy bacon over the potatoes before serving; the smoky flavor elevates the overall dish beautifully.
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Crispy Onion Topping: Add French fried onions on top after baking for a delightful crunch and rich flavor contrast.
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Lemon Zest: Grate fresh lemon zest over the finished potatoes to introduce a refreshing zing that perks up the flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Smashed Potatoes
Room Temperature: Smashed potatoes can be left out for up to 2 hours after cooking, but they taste best when enjoyed fresh.
Fridge: Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that crispy texture or pop them in the microwave for quick heating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer for a quick side.
Reheating: To regain their crispiness, reheat the frozen smashed potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Make Ahead Options
Smashed potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delightful taste without the weekday rush. You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to retain their moisture and prevent browning. When you're ready to bake, spread the potatoes on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season as directed. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy. By prepping ahead, you’ll save valuable time during busy evenings while still enjoying delicious, restaurant-quality smashed potatoes!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Smashed Potatoes, be sure to use baby Yukon Gold potatoes for the best creamy texture.
- A common mistake is not salting the boiling water, which can enhance the potato's flavor immensely.
- To achieve an ideal crispy exterior, smash the potatoes just enough to flatten them without completely breaking them apart.
- Bake at the correct temperature of 425°F to ensure they cook evenly and develop that perfect golden color.
Smashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for smashing?
Absolutely! When it comes to choosing baby Yukon Gold potatoes, look for those that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with dark spots or wrinkled skin. The best potatoes should feel heavy and have a uniform yellow color.
How should I store leftover smashed potatoes?
Very! To keep leftover smashed potatoes fresh, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be stored for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven to help restore that delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze smashed potatoes?
Of course! Freezing smashed potatoes is a great option for meal prep. First, spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer to a freezer bag and label with the date. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When reheating, do it straight from frozen for about 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until everything is warmed through and crisp.
What if my smashed potatoes come out soggy?
Don't worry! Soggy smashed potatoes can happen. If this occurs, ensure that you’ve properly drained them after boiling. When smashing, avoid overcooking to prevent excess moisture. For a quick fix, you can bake them a little longer, allowing moisture to evaporate while they crisp up in the oven.
Are smashed potatoes suitable for pets?
Absolutely! Smashed potatoes are generally safe for pets when served plain, without seasonings like salt, butter, or herbs. However, always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet's diet.
Can I use other herbs instead of chives or rosemary?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to personalize your smashed potatoes. Just remember that certain herbs might change the flavor profile significantly, so use what suits your taste!
Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing your baby Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil them for 15-20 minutes until they’re fork-tender.
- Carefully drain the cooked potatoes and let them cool slightly. Place them on a lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Gently press down on each potato with a fork or your palm to flatten them slightly.
- Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the potatoes for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once they are beautifully crispy, add knobs of unsalted butter on top and garnish with chives or rosemary.
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