Dinner Recipes

February 4, 2026

Crispy Smashed Potatoes: 5 Irresistible Steps to Perfection

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

37 Views • 6 min read

Crispy Smashed Potatoes: 5 Irresistible Steps to Perfection

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Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried Crispy Smashed Potatoes, you’re seriously missing out! These little gems are the perfect side dish that gives you the best of both worlds: the fluffy, tender insides of a potato paired with a crispy, golden exterior that’s just begging to be devoured. I remember the first time I made them, I thought, “Wow, why didn’t I think of this sooner?” They’re so simple yet incredibly satisfying, making them a hit at every dinner table. Trust me when I say they’ll steal the spotlight from any main dish! So, roll up your sleeves and get ready for some potato magic!

Ingredients List

2 pounds baby potatoes (washed and scrubbed)
4 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for flavor)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic if you’re feeling fancy)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, but I love a sprinkle of parsley or chives)

How to Prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Making Crispy Smashed Potatoes is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through it step by step! You’ll want to take your time with each part to ensure those potatoes come out perfectly crispy and golden.

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt—this is key for seasoning the potatoes from the inside out! Bring the water to a boil, then add your baby potatoes. Let them cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. You want them soft enough to smash but not falling apart, so keep an eye on them!

Step 2: Smash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are done, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes. This is where the fun begins! Place each potato on a baking sheet and gently smash them down with a fork or potato masher. Aim for a nice flat shape—too thick, and they won’t crisp up, but too thin, and they’ll burn. You want a happy medium for those crispy edges!

Step 3: Season and Bake

Now for the flavor! Drizzle olive oil generously over your smashed potatoes, making sure they’re well coated. Then, sprinkle on the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder—don’t be shy! Bake in your preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden color and a crispy texture that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

FAQ Section

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Absolutely! While baby potatoes are my go-to for that perfect crispy bite, you can use regular potatoes as well. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to cut them into smaller chunks to ensure even cooking. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work particularly well because they hold their shape and flavor beautifully.

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any Crispy Smashed Potatoes left over (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for about 3-4 days. To reheat, I recommend popping them back into the oven for a few minutes to regain that delightful crispiness. Just don’t microwave them—trust me, they’ll lose that lovely crunch!

What can I serve with Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! These smashed potatoes are perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or even a nice piece of salmon. They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted veggies. Honestly, they complement just about any main dish you can imagine, making them a versatile addition to your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious potatoes without any fuss.
Fluffy and Crispy: The combination of tender insides and a crispy exterior creates a texture that’s simply irresistible.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes fit right in.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves them! They’re guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Leftover Friendly: They taste just as good reheated, so you can enjoy them again and again!

Tips for Success

Want to take your Crispy Smashed Potatoes to the next level? I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will ensure you achieve that perfect crunch every time!

Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes are my favorite for this recipe, but if you can’t find them, look for waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape well and give you that buttery texture.
Don’t Rush the Boil: Make sure to boil the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, but not mushy. This step is crucial for getting that fluffy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy outside.
Smash with Care: When smashing, aim for a thickness of about half an inch. This allows for crispy edges while keeping the center fluffy. Too thick won’t crisp up, and too thin may burn!
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the olive oil and seasonings! A good drizzle of oil helps achieve that golden color and crispiness. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference.
Hot Oven, Hot Sheet: For extra crispiness, preheat your baking sheet for a few minutes before adding the potatoes. This gives them a head start on that delightful crunch.
Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on them while they bake! Ovens can vary, so check for that golden-brown color around the 25-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

With these tips in hand, you’re all set to wow your family and friends with the best Crispy Smashed Potatoes! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying Crispy Smashed Potatoes, you might be curious about what’s in them! Here are the estimated nutritional values based on the ingredients used in this recipe:

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 300mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. But hey, who can resist a delicious side dish like this? Enjoy every crispy, fluffy bite guilt-free!

Share Your Experience

I would love to hear from you! Have you tried making Crispy Smashed Potatoes? What did you think? Did you add any special seasonings or toppings that took them to the next level? Feel free to share your stories, tips, or even photos of your delicious creations in the comments below! I always enjoy seeing how you put your own spin on this recipe. Your feedback not only inspires me but also helps fellow readers discover new ideas. So don’t be shy—let’s create a community of potato lovers together!

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection!

For tips on cooking potatoes, you can refer to this Food Network guide.