Introduction
Smashed potatoes are a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that many people love to enjoy as a side at meals. This smashed potatoes recipe combines crispy edges with a soft, fluffy center, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing a casual dinner or a special meal, this easy smashed potatoes recipe will quickly become a favorite. We’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of making the perfect smashed potatoes, from prep to seasoning, and offer helpful tips for adding your own flavor twists. This classic smashed potatoes recipe is easy to follow and delivers a satisfying dish that complements any main course.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making smashed potatoes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow while delivering amazing results. We’ll also explore variations and tips for making your potatoes even more flavorful and creative, and provide answers to common questions about smashed potatoes.
For more side dish ideas, check out these great recipes: Roasted Cranberry Goat Cheese Flatbread, or try some Crack Chicken Tenders.
What You’ll Need
To make this smashed potatoes recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment and ingredients. The right tools and fresh ingredients ensure you get the perfect texture and flavor every time.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- Baking Sheet
You’ll need a large baking sheet to spread the potatoes evenly for roasting. This allows the smashed potatoes to crisp up all over, giving them a golden, crunchy exterior. - Parchment Paper or Foil
Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil helps prevent the potatoes from sticking, making cleanup much easier. - Potato Masher or Fork
A potato masher or the back of a fork is essential for smashing the boiled potatoes. Don’t mash them too thoroughly; just press them gently to create a flattened surface for crisping. - Large Pot for Boiling
A large pot is necessary to boil the potatoes in enough water for them to cook evenly and thoroughly.
Ingredients for Perfect Smashed Potatoes
- 2 Pounds of Baby Potatoes
Baby potatoes are often used in smashed potatoes because of their waxy texture. They hold up well after boiling and roasting, giving you the perfect smashed potato texture. If baby potatoes aren’t available, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great substitute. - Olive Oil
Olive oil is key to achieving a crispy, golden crust. It adds both flavor and texture while roasting the potatoes. You can also use other oils like avocado oil, but olive oil tends to add a wonderful richness to the dish. - Salt and Black Pepper
These two basic seasonings are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the potatoes. You can also experiment with other spices, but salt and pepper are the foundation of this simple recipe. - Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (Optional)
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme provide a fragrant, earthy flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly. For a more robust flavor, you can finely chop them or add whole sprigs to the potatoes before roasting. - Butter (Optional)
Butter is optional but recommended if you want to add richness to your smashed potatoes. Melt it over the roasted potatoes to give them a luscious, creamy finish. If you prefer a vegan option, you can replace the butter with olive oil.
For other delicious and simple side dishes, check out Stuffed Potato Cakes or Honey Garlic Shrimp.
Ingredients: Detailed Breakdown
Each ingredient in the smashed potatoes recipe plays an important role in delivering great flavor and texture. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients and their impact on the dish.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
When it comes to smashed potatoes, the type of potato you use makes all the difference. Baby potatoes are commonly used in this recipe due to their smaller size and waxy texture. This texture helps them hold their shape during boiling and smashing, which is crucial to achieving the right consistency. Baby potatoes also have a more delicate skin, which adds texture and flavor once roasted.
If you can’t find baby potatoes, other waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold work wonderfully. These potatoes also have a creamy texture and are easy to cook, making them a great alternative.
The Role of Olive Oil
Olive oil is essential for getting the crispy, golden exterior of your smashed potatoes. It coats the potatoes evenly, allowing them to brown and crisp up during roasting. Olive oil also enhances the flavor, adding a mild, fruity note that complements the earthiness of the potatoes.
While olive oil is the recommended fat, you can use alternatives like avocado oil or vegetable oil. However, olive oil is a healthier option and offers the best taste for this recipe.
Seasoning with Salt, Pepper, and Herbs
Seasoning is the key to enhancing the natural flavors of your smashed potatoes. Salt is a must, as it draws out the potato’s flavor and balances the richness of the oil. Black pepper adds a subtle spice that pairs well with the earthy potatoes.
For additional depth, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme can be sprinkled over the potatoes before roasting. These herbs give the dish a fragrant aroma and add complexity to the flavor profile. Garlic is another popular addition—whether minced or roasted, garlic can add a bold, savory element to your smashed potatoes.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these easy-to-understand steps to create the perfect smashed potatoes. The process is straightforward and allows you to enjoy crispy, flavorful potatoes in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Since the skins will stay on, it’s important to remove any dirt. You can use a scrub brush or simply rub them with your hands under running water. After cleaning the potatoes, place them into a large pot and fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes. Add a pinch of salt to the water to help season the potatoes as they cook.
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until a fork can easily pierce through them. Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they might fall apart when smashed.
Step 2: Smash and Season the Potatoes
Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
Next, drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes, ensuring each one is well-coated. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You can also sprinkle some fresh rosemary or thyme on top for added flavor.
Step 3: Roast to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the potatoes for about 20-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. For extra crunch, flip the potatoes halfway through the roasting time. When finished, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. If desired, drizzle some melted butter over the top to add richness.
Nutrition Score
Smashed potatoes are a comfort food that can fit into a variety of dietary plans. The basic recipe provides a great balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber, especially when using olive oil and keeping the skins on the potatoes. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content for a typical serving of smashed potatoes.
Calories
One serving of smashed potatoes (about ¼ of the recipe) contains approximately 220-250 calories. The calorie count will vary depending on the amount of olive oil and butter used. You can reduce the calorie content by cutting back on fats or substituting with lighter options like low-fat butter or oil.
Fat
A typical serving of smashed potatoes has around 15-18g of fat. The fat mainly comes from the olive oil and butter. While these fats are healthy (especially if you use olive oil), you can lower the fat content by using less butter or oil.
Carbohydrates and Fiber
Potatoes are rich in carbohydrates, providing around 35g per serving. They also offer a good amount of fiber—about 3-4g per serving—thanks to the skins. Fiber is essential for digestion and helps you feel full longer.
Protein
Smashed potatoes offer a small amount of protein—around 3g per serving. While potatoes aren’t a high-protein food, pairing them with a protein-rich main dish like chicken or beef makes for a balanced meal.
For a more balanced meal, you can pair your smashed potatoes with a protein-rich dish like Best Bourbon Chicken.
Serving & Storage
Smashed potatoes can be served in various ways, making them a versatile side dish for almost any meal. Here are some serving ideas, as well as tips for storing leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
- With Protein Dishes: Smashed potatoes go wonderfully with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked fish. Their crispy edges complement the tenderness of meats, making them an ideal pairing for any main course.
- For a Casual Meal: Serve them as part of a cozy dinner alongside a fresh green salad or some grilled vegetables. They also work well in a hearty meal with a creamy sauce or gravy.
- Perfect for Potlucks and Gatherings: Smashed potatoes are a great dish to serve at parties or family gatherings. They are easy to make in large quantities and are guaranteed to be a hit with your guests.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover smashed potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for 3-4 days. To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy texture. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though they won’t be as crispy.
For a full meal, serve them with sides like Cabbage Roll Casserole.
Variations
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your smashed potatoes! There are countless ways to adjust the recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences.
Herb-Infused Smashed Potatoes
Adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley brings extra flavor to the dish. You can mix chopped herbs into the olive oil or sprinkle them on top of the smashed potatoes before roasting.
Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
If you’re a fan of cheese, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the top before roasting the potatoes. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey crust.
FAQs
How to make Martha Stewart smashed potatoes?
Martha Stewart’s recipe typically includes boiled potatoes, olive oil, fresh herbs, and garlic. Her recipe focuses on simple, clean flavors to highlight the potatoes’ natural taste.
How do you make smashed potatoes from Rachael Ray?
Rachael Ray’s version includes adding garlic, scallions, and sometimes Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor. Her approach gives the potatoes an extra depth of savory flavor.
Is it necessary to boil potatoes before roasting?
Yes, boiling the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and become tender, making them easier to smash and roast to a crispy perfection.
What’s the difference between mashed potatoes and smashed potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are chunkier with skins left on, providing a more rustic texture, while mashed potatoes are creamy and smooth with no lumps.
Conclusion
Smashed potatoes are a classic, satisfying side dish that offers a balance of crispy and tender textures. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to make it your own, whether it’s adding herbs, cheese, or spices.
Ready to try it? Get creative with your smashed potatoes and enjoy the delicious results! For more great side dishes, explore these options: Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps and Loaded Baked Nachos with Guacamole.