Name: Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 47 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 12 small round new potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds); 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided); Kosher salt (to taste); Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste); 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or to taste, chopped); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (or to taste, finely grated)

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There’s nothing quite like the pleasure of making Smashed Potatoes on a cozy evening. One day, after a long week, I decided to treat myself to a comforting dish that reminds me of family gatherings and warm kitchens. The idea of taking simple potatoes and turning them into a crispy, golden delight seemed perfect. As I gathered my ingredients, the aroma of olive oil and fresh rosemary danced through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. The process is as enjoyable as the end result, and I can’t wait to share this with you.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
57 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
47 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
240 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Large Pot, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

What Makes This Smashed Potatoes Special

Comfort Food at Its Best

We all crave a little comfort food from time to time, and Smashed Potatoes are a perfect way to indulge. They’re not just a side; they can be the star of the meal. The combination of creamy interiors and crispy exteriors creates a delightful texture that makes each bite a joy.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

The beauty of Smashed Potatoes lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. The addition of fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of Parmesan elevates the flavor without overwhelming your taste buds. It’s amazing how such basic items can come together to create something so delicious.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends, Smashed Potatoes fit seamlessly into any occasion. They pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making them the perfect accompaniment for your favorite meals.

Fun Cooking Experience

There’s something uniquely satisfying about smashing the potatoes. It’s a great way to involve the family in the kitchen. Kids love getting their hands in there and you’ll find laughter and good times mixed into the cooking process. It’s all about creating fun memories!

Healthier than You Think

While Smashed Potatoes may feel indulgent, they can be made healthier with simple adjustments. Using olive oil instead of butter and incorporating fresh herbs means you can enjoy this dish without the guilt. That’s a win in my book!

Leftover Potential

One of the best parts about making Smashed Potatoes is that they store well. You can make a big batch and enjoy them the next day in various forms, whether as a breakfast hash or re-heated as a side. There’s no waste, just continued deliciousness!

Ingredients Overview for Smashed Potatoes

The ingredients for Smashed Potatoes are simple yet essential for achieving that perfect balance of creamy and crispy. Each component plays a vital role in the final dish, bringing flavors that complement each other beautifully. The key players are the potatoes, which provide the foundation, and the olive oil, rosemary, and Parmesan cheese that enhance the overall taste.

12 small, round new potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds) – These tender potatoes are ideal for smashing; their waxy texture makes them creamy inside after cooking.
3 tablespoons olive oil (divided) – This adds flavor and helps achieve the crispy exterior that we all love.
Kosher salt (to taste) – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the potatoes.
Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste) – Adds a hint of spice and depth to the dish.
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or to taste, chopped) – This herb complements the potatoes wonderfully, adding a fragrant touch.
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (or to taste, finely grated) – A sprinkle of this cheese provides a lovely salty flavor and a delightful crust.

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Making Smashed Potatoes is a fun and straightforward process that will leave your kitchen smelling divine. Follow these steps, and you’ll see how easy it is to create this crowd-pleasing dish.

Preheat your oven to 450°F. This high temperature is key to achieving that crispy finish on our smashed potatoes. While the oven heats, you can prepare your baking sheet by lightly coating it with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.
Next, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water by about 1 inch. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and turn on the heat. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender but not falling apart, which should take about 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the goal is soft, not mushy!
Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for about 5 minutes to steam dry. This step is important, as it helps the potatoes crisp up better in the oven.
Arrange the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each one. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until flattened to about half an inch thick. This gives us the surface area needed for that delicious crisp!
Now it’s time to add flavor! Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the smashed potatoes. Then, sprinkle them generously with Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, the chopped rosemary, and finally, the finely grated Parmesan cheese. The combination of these flavors is heavenly.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Roast the smashed potatoes until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges, which will take about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on their size. It’s the perfect time to check on them and maybe even sneak a taste!
Once they’re done, remove the tray from the oven and let the potatoes cool slightly before serving. This cooling period allows the flavors to settle, and if you want to impress, garnish with an extra sprinkle of rosemary or Parmesan cheese.
Serve the Smashed Potatoes hot, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness!

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing Potatoes: Opt for waxy potatoes like new potatoes or Yukon Gold for the best texture when smashed.
Crispy Finish: For an extra crispy finish, broil the smashed potatoes for 2 to 3 minutes after roasting.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Serving Size: Feel free to double the recipe for gatherings, as these Smashed Potatoes are always a hit!

Tips and Tricks about Smashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect Smashed Potatoes is all about the little details. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked Smashed Potatoes for up to a month. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Pairing: These Smashed Potatoes pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, roasted meats, or even a fresh salad.
Customization: Feel free to add spices like paprika or garlic powder to give your potatoes an extra kick.
Garnishing: Top with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.

Perfect Matches for Smashed Potatoes

Thinking of how to serve your delicious Smashed Potatoes? Here are some great suggestions:

Pair with Grilled Chicken: The crispy texture of the smashed potatoes complements the juicy flavor of grilled chicken perfectly.
Serve at Family Gatherings: These Smashed Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for holidays or family dinners.
Accompany with a Fresh Salad: A light salad can balance the heartiness of the smashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Winter Comfort: They’re particularly great during cold months—warm and filling!
Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week with various meals.

FAQ

For Smashed Potatoes, it’s best to use waxy potatoes like new potatoes or Yukon Gold. These varieties hold their shape well after boiling and mash beautifully, giving you that creamy texture inside while achieving a crispy exterior. They provide the perfect balance of flavor and texture that makes smashed potatoes irresistible!

Yes, you can prepare Smashed Potatoes ahead of time! You can boil the potatoes earlier in the day, then smash and season them right before roasting. If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture. This makes them great for meal prep!

To ensure that your Smashed Potatoes come out crispy, make sure to steam dry the cooked potatoes before smashing them. Also, when roasting, using a high temperature (like 450°F) and ensuring they are spread out on the baking sheet will help achieve that golden-brown crust. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt also contribute to the crispiness!

Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even salads. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes can complement any dish. Explore different pairings to find your favorites!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Smashed Potatoes are a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Their simplicity and incredible flavor make them a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner. So why not whip up a batch tonight? You won’t be disappointed!