The aroma of crispy, golden-brown smashed potatoes wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising a delightful treat. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a fluffy interior that melts in your mouth. Picture this: it’s the weekend, you’re in comfy pajamas, and the only thing on your agenda is indulging in a plate of these heavenly potatoes.
Smashed potatoes have a special place in my heart, much like that one friend who always brings snacks to parties. They are perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends, transforming any meal into a celebration. Just wait until you taste their buttery goodness; you’ll be begging for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Smashed potatoes are straightforward to prepare and require minimal ingredients
- Their rich flavor pairs seamlessly with various dishes, making them incredibly versatile
- Visually stunning, they bring color and texture to any plate
- Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings
I remember the first time I made smashed potatoes; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them, and they even asked for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Yukon Gold Potatoes: These creamy potatoes are ideal for smashing due to their buttery texture.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
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Fresh Rosemary: This herb lends an aromatic touch that complements the potatoes perfectly.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate the dish’s flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Potatoes: Start by washing about two pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly under cold water. Cut them into quarters to ensure even cooking.
Boil Away!: In a large pot, add the quartered potatoes along with enough salted water to cover them completely. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat until they’re fork-tender, usually around 15-20 minutes.
Drain and Dry: Carefully drain the boiled potatoes in a colander and let them sit for about five minutes. This allows excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring crispiness later.
Splash on Some Flavor: Return the potatoes to the pot and drizzle with olive oil while adding crushed garlic cloves and chopped fresh rosemary. Toss everything gently until coated evenly.
Smashed Perfection!: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the coated potatoes spaced apart. Use a fork or potato masher to gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still intact.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Enjoy this incredible journey of flavor as you savor each crunchy yet fluffy bite of smashed potatoes!
You Must Know
- Smashed potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a comforting hug on a plate
- With crispy edges and fluffy centers, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser
- Pair them with your favorite protein, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your potatoes until fork-tender, then drain and let them steam dry. Smash them down gently before roasting for maximum crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with herbs or cheese in your smashed potatoes. Adding garlic or parmesan can elevate the flavor profile tremendously.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy smashed potatoes, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds
- Make sure they’re evenly sized for even cooking
- A sprinkle of sea salt before serving adds a delightful crunch
Sometimes, I remember the first time I served smashed potatoes to friends—they couldn’t get enough! Their laughter filled the kitchen as they fought over the last crispy bite.
FAQ
What type of potatoes work best for smashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes provide the best texture and flavor for smashing.
Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them a day prior and reheat before serving for optimal enjoyment.
What toppings can I use for my smashed potatoes?
Consider sour cream, chives, bacon bits, or shredded cheese as delicious topping options.
Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, delivering a delightful crunch on the outside and a fluffy, buttery interior. These irresistible bites are perfect for cozy weekends or festive gatherings, transforming any meal into a celebration. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can enjoy this dish alongside your favorite protein or as a satisfying snack. Get ready to indulge in heavenly smashed potatoes that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and quarter the Yukon Gold potatoes.
- Boil in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Return to pot; toss with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until evenly coated.
- On a parchment-lined baking sheet, gently smash each potato with a fork.
- Bake at 450°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
