The aroma of perfectly crispy smashed potatoes wafts through the air, invoking memories of family gatherings and laughter. Imagine golden, crunchy edges giving way to creamy potato goodness with each delicious bite. Blackened Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowls It’s a dish that promises comfort and joy, perfect for any occasion where a side dish can steal the show. Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole recipe.

I still remember the first time I made these potatoes. My friends gathered around, skeptical at first, but their faces lit up with delight after just one taste. Suddenly, everyone wanted the recipe! These perfectly crispy smashed potatoes are not just food; they’re a celebration on your plate.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These perfectly crispy smashed potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for any weeknight dinner
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of buttery and savory notes that appeals to everyone
- With their golden-brown exterior and fluffy interior, they look as good as they taste
- Plus, they pair beautifully with just about any main course, making them a versatile addition to your meal rotation
I once had a friend who said he could never find mashed potatoes that met his high standards until he tried these crispy gems.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baby Potatoes: These small spuds cook evenly and are the perfect size for smashing without falling apart.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for an aromatic touch that enhances the flavor of your potatoes.
- Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt works best to bring out all the flavors in the dish.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds depth and a slight kick to every bite.
- Garlic Powder: This optional ingredient adds a savory richness that’s hard to resist.
- Fresh Herbs (like rosemary or thyme): Chopped herbs will elevate your potatoes from ordinary to unforgettable!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Potatoes: Start by washing the baby potatoes under cool water. This removes any dirt that might have lingered from their journey from farm to table.
Boil Until Tender: Place the washed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Smash Those Spuds!: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Using a potato masher or fork, gently smash each potato until they are flattened but still intact—rough edges create those coveted crispy bits.
Add Flavorful Coating: Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes while sprinkling them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs if desired. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes Toss gently to ensure even coating without breaking apart your creations. Roasted Carrots with Ricotta.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and sizzling.
Serve Up Deliciousness!: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These perfectly crispy smashed potatoes make an excellent side dish or snack—just be prepared for everyone wanting seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Potato Egg Scramble recipe.
Enjoying these perfectly crispy smashed potatoes will transform any meal into an event worth celebrating. The combination of textures—crispy outside with fluffy inside—will leave you craving more!
You Must Know
- Perfectly crispy smashed potatoes require the right balance of boiling and smashing
- Achieving that golden crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside fluffy is key
- A sprinkle of sea salt enhances flavor and texture, making every bite irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly crispy smashed potatoes, start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender. Once boiled, smash them gently and then roast at a high temperature to ensure they get crispy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your smashed potatoes with garlic powder, fresh herbs, or even cheese for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different oils like olive or avocado for varied flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven for about 10 minutes for that crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For extra crispiness, use a cast-iron skillet to roast your smashed potatoes
- Ensure they’re dry before roasting
- Don’t skip seasoning—herbs and spices elevate their flavor significantly!
I remember the first time I made these smashed potatoes for a family gathering; everyone couldn’t stop raving about how crispy they turned out! It was a proud moment.
FAQ
How long should I boil the potatoes?
Boil your potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender for best results.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well for achieving a creamy interior.
What oil is best for roasting?
Olive oil is excellent, but avocado oil adds an exciting flavor twist while ensuring crispiness.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the joy of crispy smashed potatoes that are golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Perfect as a side dish or snack, these potatoes are easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering. With a delightful blend of savory flavors and a satisfying crunch, they will become a beloved addition to your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme), chopped
Instructions
- Wash baby potatoes under cool water to remove dirt.
- Place potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and boil until fork-tender (15-20 minutes).
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Smash each potato gently with a potato masher or fork until flattened but intact.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs. Toss gently to coat.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange smashed potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg