Smashed potatoes are like the party crashers of the potato world, showing up all dressed up and ready to impress, but also bringing a delightful level of chaos. Imagine biting into crispy edges that give way to fluffy, buttery goodness. They’re not just side dishes; they’re the show-stealers at any meal. chicken cordon bleu casserole Whether it’s a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or just a Wednesday that needs some pizzazz, smashed potatoes bring a flavor explosion that will have everyone clamoring for seconds. potato chip chicken.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Smashed Potatoes
- How to Make Smashed Potatoes
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What are Smashed Potatoes and how are they different from mashed potatoes?
- Can I make Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
- What toppings work best for Smashed Potatoes?
- Are Smashed Potatoes healthy?
- Conclusion for Smashed Potatoes :
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I tackled smashed potatoes—my kitchen looked like a potato war zone! But as I smeared butter and sprinkled herbs over my triumphantly smashed spuds, I knew I had discovered something magical. delicious scalloped potatoes The scent wafted through the house like an invitation to gather around the table. So grab your apron and get ready to make these delightful creations that promise to be both easy and delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Smashed potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Their savory flavor profile blends perfectly with herbs and spices, elevating any meal.
- With their rustic appearance, they add visual appeal that makes your dinner plate pop.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with meats, veggies, or even on their own as a comfort food star!
Ingredients for Smashed Potatoes
For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baby Potatoes: These little gems are perfect for smashing; their size ensures even cooking and they have great flavor.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of this liquid gold not only adds flavor but helps achieve that crispy texture we’re after.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; use coarse sea salt for that extra crunch and freshly ground pepper for bite.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme work wonderfully here; they’ll elevate your smashed potatoes from good to gourmet. sweet potato hummus.
- Butter: A dollop of butter brings richness and enhances the creamy interior of your smashed potatoes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Smashed Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook Your Potatoes
Start by placing your baby potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and let those spuds cook until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes should do it!
Step 2: Drain and Cool
Once they’re tender enough to pass a fork test without resistance (we’re not trying to break any world records here), drain the potatoes in a colander. Allow them to cool slightly so you don’t burn your fingers off during the next step.
Step 3: Smash ‘Em Up
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (because we’re fancy today), place each potato one by one. Grab either a potato masher or the bottom of a glass—whatever floats your boat—and give each potato a gentle smash until it flattens out but still holds its shape.
Step 4: Season Like You Mean It
Drizzle olive oil over your smashed potatoes like you’re a chef on TV (we won’t tell anyone). Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs. Be generous! This is where the flavor magic happens.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you let those beauties soak up the seasoning. Slide them into the oven for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, while they’re still hot, toss on some butter so it melts gloriously into every crevice—trust me on this one! Serve warm and watch as everyone dives in!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy those crispy edges paired with soft interiors—the ultimate comfort food experience!
You Must Know
- This delightful smashed potatoes recipe combines crispy edges and fluffy centers for a perfect side dish.
- They’re versatile and can be paired with almost any main course, making them the go-to comfort food.
- Plus, they make you feel like a culinary genius without too much effort!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, then drain and let them cool slightly. While the potatoes are cooling, preheat your oven to a sizzling 450°F. Smash each potato flat and drizzle with olive oil before baking them to crispy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix it up! Add garlic powder, fresh herbs, or even sprinkle some cheese on top before baking. You could also swap out olive oil for melted butter or infuse it with truffle oil for that luxurious touch.
Storing & Reheating
To store your smashed potatoes, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the fridge. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 375°F until warmed through and crispy again—no soggy spuds here!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy smashed potatoes, ensure they’re well dried after boiling; moisture is not your friend here.
- Use a sturdy potato masher for an even smash, avoiding mushiness.
- And don’t skip the olive oil—it’s key for that golden crunch!
I remember the first time I made smashed potatoes for my family—they devoured them in minutes and insisted I make them every week since! Their enthusiastic approval still makes me chuckle every time I prepare this dish.
FAQs :
What are Smashed Potatoes and how are they different from mashed potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are a delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes. Instead of being whipped until creamy, the potatoes are boiled and then gently smashed, leaving them with a chunky texture. This method preserves some of the potato’s natural shape and adds a delightful crispiness when roasted. Unlike mashed potatoes, which can be smooth and uniform, smashed potatoes offer a rustic appeal that enhances their flavor and makes them more visually appealing on your plate.
Can I make Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare smashed potatoes ahead of time! Cook the potatoes as directed, smash them, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave. For the best results, consider adding a little olive oil or butter before reheating to enhance their flavor and texture. This makes it convenient for meal prep or making dishes for gatherings.
What toppings work best for Smashed Potatoes?
When it comes to toppings for smashed potatoes, the options are endless! Classic choices include sour cream, chives, and shredded cheese. You can also get creative with toppings like crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or even sautéed mushrooms. For a gourmet touch, try drizzling truffle oil or adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. These toppings add layers of flavor that elevate your smashed potatoes to new heights.
Are Smashed Potatoes healthy?
Smashed potatoes can be part of a healthy diet if prepared mindfully. While they contain carbohydrates and calories like any potato dish, you can make them healthier by using minimal butter or oil and adding nutritious toppings such as Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Additionally, leaving the skins on increases fiber content. Enjoying smashed potatoes in moderation as part of a balanced diet is key to making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
Conclusion for Smashed Potatoes :
In summary, smashed potatoes are an exciting alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that offer both texture and taste. Their versatility allows for various toppings that can suit any palate or occasion. Preparing them ahead of time makes meal planning easier without sacrificing flavor. Whether enjoyed at family dinners or festive gatherings, smashed potatoes will surely impress your guests while satisfying your cravings for comfort food. Embrace this delightful dish today! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, boasting crispy edges and a fluffy interior that create a delightful contrast in every bite. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Ready in under an hour and incredibly versatile, smashed potatoes can be customized with your favorite herbs and toppings for a unique twist that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp coarse sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme (chopped)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Boil baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). On a parchment-lined baking sheet, place each potato and gently smash with a potato masher or glass bottom until flattened but intact.
- Drizzle smashed potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Remove from oven and top with butter while still hot. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
