Crispy Smashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Amazing Recipe for 10 People

Crispy smashed potatoes are an incredible and delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. If you’ve been searching for a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meats or vegetarian dishes, look no further! These potatoes come out golden brown on the outside while remaining fluffy and tender on the inside. They are perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or just a cozy night in.

Imagine flavorful herbs and spices kissing every part of the smashed potatoes as they roast in the oven. With their satisfying crunch and soft interior, crispy smashed potatoes are sure to be a hit at the dining table. If you’re tired of standard mashed or roasted potatoes, this recipe will bring innovation to your meal prep and tantalize your taste buds!

This article will delve into why this recipe stands out, how to prepare and time your cooking perfectly, and what ingredients you will need. Additionally, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions to make your crispy smashed potatoes as effortless and delicious as possible. By the end, you’ll be excited to serve these delightful treats to your family and guests!

Preparation and Cooking Time

When it comes to crispy smashed potatoes, you’ll find the preparation and cooking time aligns well with your busy schedule. Here’s a breakdown of the time commitment necessary to create this delectable dish:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (including flipping)

This concise timeframe ensures that you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to serve with minimal delays during your main cooking tasks.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating crispy smashed potatoes is easy, and following these simple steps will ensure success:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Boil Potatoes: In a large pot, add baby potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes or until fork-tender.
3. Drain Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and allow them to steam dry for a few minutes.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
5. Smash the Potatoes: Use the bottom of a glass or a fork to gently smash each potato until they are flattened but still intact.
6. Season: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Drizzle the mixture over the smashed potatoes, ensuring an even coating.
7. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
8. Add Fresh Herbs: In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle fresh parsley and rosemary over the potatoes for added flavor. If using Parmesan, add it in the last few minutes of cooking for melting.
9. Serve Immediately: Remove the potatoes from the oven and serve hot, garnished with extra herbs or cheese if desired.

These step-by-step guidelines will help you achieve the perfect combination of crispy and fluffy textures in your smashed potatoes.

How to Serve

Serving crispy smashed potatoes is an exciting opportunity to showcase your creativity. Consider the following tips for a delightful presentation:

1. Plating: Arrange the potatoes attractively on a large serving dish or individual plates for a restaurant-style feel.
2. Garnishing: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the visual appeal and add brightness to the dish.
3. Accompaniments: Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like aioli or garlic mayo to elevate the flavor profile.
4. Meal Pairing: These potatoes are excellent alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
5. Serving Temperature: For optimal texture, serve the potatoes immediately after baking while they’re still hot and crispy.

By implementing these serving suggestions, you can create a memorable dining experience that leaves everyone clamoring for seconds! Crispy smashed potatoes are not just a dish; they represent comfort, flavor, and culinary creativity. Enjoy this versatile recipe as a way to impress your guests while also treating yourself to something extraordinary!

Additional Tips

• Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, use baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They have a creamy texture that enhances the final dish.
• Infuse Flavors: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic twist. Adjust the garlic and spices according to your flavor profile.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow potatoes to crisp for an adequate time. Patience will lead to that perfect crunch!
• Experiment with Sauces: A drizzle of sriracha mayo or garlic butter can provide an exciting kick and enhance the flavors.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize your crispy smashed potatoes! Here are a few variations to explore:

1. Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
2. Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of roasting for a gooey delight.
3. Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top the potatoes with sour cream, bacon bits, and chives for a comfort food upgrade.
4. Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Replace regular olive oil with herb-infused varieties, like basil or garlic, for added depth.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep any leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them. Spread cooked potatoes on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Special Equipment

To make your crispy smashed potatoes, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Glass or large fork for smashing potatoes
• Small bowl for mixing seasoning
• Oven mitts for safety when handling hot trays

Conclusion

Crispy smashed potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a culinary delight that brings excitement to any meal. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer incredible flavors and textures that everyone will love. With the versatility of toppings and seasonings, you can make them unique for any occasion. Serve them at your next gathering, and you’ll be sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the cozy and fulfilling experience that crispy smashed potatoes bring to your table!