Who knew something so simple could be this addictive? Smashed Potatoes will be your new obsession if you love crispy, golden potatoes with a fluffy inside. Unlike regular roasted or smashed potatoes, these little bites of heaven combine the best of both worlds—crispy edges and a soft, buttery center. First, boil them until tender, then give them a good smash before roasting them to perfection. The result? It’s a ridiculously delicious side dish that’s easy, fun, and impossible to resist. Plus, they’re made with basic pantry ingredients, so no fancy tricks—just pure potato magic.
Now, here’s where it gets even better. You can season them any way you like, making them the ultimate customizable dish. Want something garlicky? Go for it. Do you prefer a cheesy twist? Done. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, fancy gatherings, or quick snacks. So, grab your potatoes, and let’s get smashing!
Table of Contents
The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Choosing the Right Type of Potatoes for the Best Texture
Not all potatoes are created equal, especially when making Smashed Potatoes. The best ones for this dish are those that hold their shape and get crispy when roasted. First, small potatoes like baby Yukon Golds or red potatoes work best. They have a buttery texture inside while crisping up beautifully on the outside. Russet potatoes can be used, but they tend to be drier.
Next, waxy potatoes such as fingerlings are another great option because they stay firm after boiling. The key is choosing ones that are similar in size so they cook evenly. Also, avoid cutting them before boiling—keep them whole to retain moisture. Finally, freshness matters! Pick firm, unblemished potatoes without green spots. You’re halfway to making the crispest, most delicious smashed potatoes with the right type.
Best Potato Types for Smashed Potatoes:
| Type | Texture Inside | Crispiness Outside | Best For Smashed Potatoes? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yukon Gold | Creamy | Very crispy | ✅ Excellent Choice |
| Red Potatoes | Smooth | Crispy | ✅ Great Option |
| Russet | Fluffy | Crispy but delicate | ⚠️ Can Be Too Dry |
| Fingerling | Firm | Crispy | ✅ Works Well |
Essential Cooking Techniques for Maximum Crispiness
To get the ultimate crunch in Smashed Potatoes, the technique is everything. First, boil the potatoes until tender—making them easy to smash without falling apart. Next, drain them well and let them dry for a few minutes. Any extra moisture will prevent crispiness.
Then, use the bottom of a glass, a fork, or a potato masher to press them down gently. Be careful not to over-smash! The more ridges and rough edges, the crispier they’ll get. After that, drizzle generously with oil—olive oil works best. Spread them out on a baking sheet, giving them space so they roast instead of steam. Finally, bake at a high temperature (around 425°F or 220°C) until golden brown. Flip them halfway for even crispiness. Follow these steps and always get crispy, golden smashed potatoes!
Pro Tips for Extra Crunch:
| Step | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Boil Until Just Tender | Prevents potatoes from falling apart |
| Let Them Dry | Removes excess moisture for crispiness |
| Smash Gently | Creates rough edges for extra crunch |
| Use Enough Oil | Helps them crisp up evenly |
| High Temperature Baking | Ensures golden, crispy edges |
Flavor Variations to Elevate Your Smashed Potatoes
Herbs, Spices, and Seasonings That Make a Difference
The beauty of Smashed Potatoes is how easily you can change their flavor. First, herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley add a fresh touch. Garlic powder or minced garlic brings out bold, savory notes. Then, spices like smoked paprika, chili flakes, or cumin give them a deep, rich taste. Next, salt is key—use sea or flaky salt for the best results. A squeeze of lemon juice after baking adds brightness. Also, try different oils! Olive oil gives them a Mediterranean feel, while butter makes them richer. Experimenting with flavors is fun; there’s no wrong way to season these crispy delights!
Seasoning Ideas for Every Taste:
| Flavor Profile | Ingredients to Use |
|---|---|
| Classic | Garlic, rosemary, sea salt |
| Spicy | Chili flakes, black pepper, smoked paprika |
| Herby | Thyme, parsley, oregano |
| Cheesy | Parmesan, cheddar, nutritional yeast |
Creative Toppings to Add More Depth and Texture
Toppings take Smashed Potatoes to a whole new level. First, cheese lovers can sprinkle grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar on top before baking. It melts into a crispy, golden layer. Next, toasted nuts or crispy onions work great if you want some crunch. Then, try a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of herb dressing for a fresh twist. Also, avocado slices or guacamole make them extra creamy. Finally, if you love a little zest, add a squeeze of lemon or some fresh herbs before serving.
Tasty Topping Ideas:
- Cheesy Goodness – Melted Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella
- Crunchy Finish – Crispy onions, toasted seeds, or crushed nuts
- Fresh & Creamy – Sour cream, yogurt, or avocado
- Zesty Touch – Lemon zest, lime juice, or fresh herbs
The Best Cooking Methods: Oven vs. Air Fryer vs. Stovetop
How Each Cooking Method Affects Texture and Flavor
The way you cook Smashed Potatoes changes how crispy they get. First, baking in the oven gives them a golden, even crispiness. This method is great for making big batches. Next, the air fryer cooks them faster and makes them even crunchier. If you love extra crispy edges, this is your best bet. Then, stovetop frying is another option. It gives them a deep, golden crust but needs more oil. Each method has perks, so choose the one that fits your style!
| Method | Crispiness | Time Required | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | Very Crispy | 30-40 mins | Even baking |
| Air Fryer | Super Crispy | 20-25 mins | Fast cooking |
| Stovetop | Crispy Outside | 15-20 mins | Rich flavor |
Adjusting Cooking Times for the Perfect Balance
Cooking times make all the difference in Smashed Potatoes. First, bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 30 minutes for the perfect balance of crisp and tender. Next, if using an air fryer, cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Also, fry them for 3-4 minutes per side on the stovetop until golden brown.
Timing Tips for Crispy Perfection:
- Oven: Bake for 30-40 minutes at 425°F
- Air Fryer: Cook for 20-25 minutes at 400°F
- Stovetop: Fry for 3-4 minutes per side
Pairing Smashed Potatoes with the Perfect Main Dishes
Best Protein and Vegetable Pairings for a Complete Meal
Smashed Potatoes go with almost anything! First, they pair perfectly with roasted chicken or grilled fish. Their crispy texture balances out soft, juicy proteins. Next, for a veggie-packed plate, serve them with roasted carrots, sautéed spinach, or a fresh green salad. Beans or lentils also make great plant-based pairings.
| Pairing Type | Best Choices |
|---|---|
| Protein | Grilled chicken, baked fish, tofu |
| Vegetables | Roasted carrots, spinach, fresh salad |
How to Serve Smashed Potatoes for Different Occasions
These crispy bites work for any event. First, they make a perfect side for family dinners. Next, they’re great for parties—just add dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy mayo. Also, they can be a fun appetizer when topped with cheese and herbs.
Best Serving Ideas:
- Family Dinners: Serve with grilled meats or roasted veggies
- Party Appetizer: Add toppings like cheese, herbs, and dips
- Brunch Favorite: Serve with eggs and avocado
Time to turn those crispy secrets into a delicious reality—make Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes!
Ingredients
Before we start smashing, let’s discuss what makes this dish irresistible. Each ingredient plays a key role, so let’s break it down in the most delicious way!
- Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes (1 ½ pounds, about 10-14 small potatoes) – These little golden gems are the secret to the perfect smashed texture. First, they’re naturally creamy on the inside. Then, their thin skins crisp up beautifully in the oven, making every bite perfect!
- Kosher Salt (2 tablespoons + ¾ teaspoon, divided) – Salt isn’t just about seasoning—it’s the magic that brings out the best in potatoes! First, it helps flavor the potatoes as they boil. Then, a sprinkle before roasting adds that perfect crispy, salty crust.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons or ½ sticks) makes everything better! It melts into the crispy edges, adding rich buttery goodness. Using unsalted butter also allows you to control the seasoning.
- Garlic (4 cloves, grated, about 1 tablespoon): Garlic lovers, rejoice! Grated garlic blends perfectly into the butter, infusing every bite with a bold, savory flavor. Roasting also brings out its natural sweetness!
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A little greenery goes a long way! Parsley adds a fresh, herby contrast to the rich, buttery potatoes and makes the dish look extra fancy without effort.
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon, freshly ground) – A little spice makes everything nice! Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and enhances the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
It’s time to turn these simple ingredients into crispy, golden, buttery Smashed Potatoes! Follow these easy steps for guaranteed deliciousness.
1️⃣ Boil the Potatoes – First, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 2 tablespoons of salt—this flavors them from the inside out! Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2️⃣ Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
3️⃣ Smash Time! – Now, the fun part! Place the potatoes on the baking sheet and use a glass, potato masher, or the back of a spoon to smash each one until it’s about ½-inch thick gently. The more craggy edges, the crispier they’ll get!
4️⃣ Butter and Garlic Magic: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the grated garlic and let it sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant. Brush this flavorful butter mixture generously over the smashed potatoes.
5️⃣ Bake Until Crispy – Sprinkle the potatoes with ¾ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Then, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving
Crispy, buttery, garlicky goodness is now ready to be devoured! Here’s how to enjoy them at their best:
- Serves 4 people – But let’s be real, you might not want to share!
- Serve hot and fresh – These potatoes taste best straight from the oven. Pair them with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even a hearty salad.
- Garnish for extra flavor: For a zesty twist, Add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Dipping game strong: Serve with sour cream, yogurt-based dip, or even spicy mayo for the ultimate dipping experience!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
- Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese is a creamy, cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with crispy smashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Arroz con Pollo Colombiano – A hearty, flavorful rice and chicken dish that balances the crispy potatoes with rich, savory goodness.
- Chicken and Spinach Casserole – A protein-packed, creamy casserole complements the garlicky, buttery potatoes beautifully.
- Pineapple Casserole Recipe – A unique mix of sweet and savory flavors that adds a fun twist to your potato feast!
Tips and Hacks
Want to take your Smashed Potatoes to the next level? These tips will help you make them extra crispy, flavorful, and easy!
✔ The drier, the crispier – After boiling, let the potatoes air dry for a few minutes before smashing. Less moisture = crispier edges!
✔ Get creative with seasonings – Love heat? Add a pinch of chili flakes. Want a cheesy touch? Sprinkle Parmesan before baking.
✔ Make them ahead – Boil the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready, just smash, season, and bake!
✔ Reheating hack – To keep them crispy, reheat in the oven at 400°F for 10 minutes instead of microwaving.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | 1/4 of Recipe |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
Please note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Please note: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on oven performance and potato size.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you make Rachael Ray’s smashed potatoes?
Rachael Ray’s Smashed Potatoes starts by boiling small potatoes until fork-tender. Next, she smashes them flat and brushes them with olive oil. Then, she season them with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs before roasting them until crispy. Finally, she adds melted butter or cheese for extra flavor. The result? Crispy, golden potatoes with a fluffy inside—perfect for any meal!
What’s the difference between smashed and mashed potatoes?
Smashed Potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft inside. First, they’re boiled, flattened, and roasted to golden perfection. On the other hand, mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy. They’re boiled, fully mashed, and mixed with butter and milk. Smashed potatoes have crispy edges, while mashed potatoes are silky and soft. Both are delicious, but smashed potatoes bring extra crunch!
Why are funeral potatoes called funeral potatoes?
Funeral potatoes got their name because they’re often served at post-funeral gatherings. This comforting dish has potatoes, cheese, sour cream, and a crispy topping. It’s warm, creamy, and easy to share. The name might sound sad, but these potatoes bring people together. They’re also great for potlucks, family dinners, or cheesy, baked comfort food!
What are the benefits of eating smashed potatoes?
Smashed Potatoes are not just delicious—they’re also packed with benefits! First, they’re made from whole potatoes and are full of fiber and vitamins. Second, they’re baked instead of deep-fried, making them a lighter option. Using olive oil instead of butter can add heart-healthy fats. Third, they’re super filling, making them a great side dish for any meal!
What are the benefits of eating smashed potatoes?
Smashed Potatoes are not just delicious—they’re also packed with benefits! First, they’re made from whole potatoes and are full of fiber and vitamins. Second, they’re baked instead of deep-fried, making them a lighter option. Using olive oil instead of butter can add heart-healthy fats. Third, they’re super filling, making them a great side dish for any meal!
Enjoy Every Bite of These Crispy, Flavorful Potatoes
Smashed Potatoes are crispy, buttery, and downright addictive! First, they’re easy to make with just a few simple steps. Then, they come out golden brown with crunchy edges and a fluffy center.
Also, they pair well with almost anything, making them a go-to side dish. You can keep them classic or get creative with toppings. Garlic, cheese, or fresh herbs? The choice is yours! Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, so you get all the flavor without the extra oil. In addition, they’re fun to make—smashing the potatoes is the best part! These crispy bites never disappoint, whether for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a quick snack. So, grab your potatoes, fire up the oven, and start smashing! Once you taste that perfect crunch, you’ll want to make them repeatedly. Enjoy every crispy, garlicky bite!
