Crispy Smashed Potatoes

A dish that brings back memories of family gatherings often includes crispy smashed potatoes. The golden brown, crunchy edges paired with a fluffy center create a delightful contrast that lingers in the mind. As a child, I remember my grandmother pulling a tray of these scrumptious potatoes from the oven, their aroma enveloping the kitchen. Each bite was a reminder of comfort, love, and the simplicity of good food shared among loved ones.

Crispy smashed potatoes have become a staple in my home. They are incredibly versatile, making them the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether accompanying a roast or serving as a comforting addition to a weeknight dinner, they always steal the show. The process of transforming humble Yukon gold potatoes into a crispy delight feels like a little kitchen magic.

This recipe highlights the beauty of just a few simple ingredients: Yukon gold potatoes, fresh garlic, parsley, and olive oil. Each component plays a significant role in creating those irresistibly crispy edges, while the creamy interior provides a hearty base. The best part? Everyone, regardless of cooking skills, can whip up this delicious dish.

Perfecting Crispy Smashed Potatoes

The key to making crispy smashed potatoes lies in understanding the fundamentals and getting the preparation just right. By boiling the potatoes first, you set the stage for a perfect texture that turns crunchy when baked. Every element of the cooking process contributes to the final result, making it essential to follow each step meticulously.

Fundamentals

Choosing the right potatoes is crucial. Yukon gold potatoes, with their creamy texture, create a lovely foundation for this dish. They hold moisture while cooking, which lends themselves perfectly to smashing. The right balance of boiling and baking transforms them into the crispy sensation everyone loves.

Preparation/Setup

Start by washing and scrubbing your potatoes thoroughly. This step eliminates any dirt or debris from the surface. Add them to a stockpot, then cover them with water. Bring it to a boil and cook until fork-tender. This should take about 15-20 minutes. The goal is to make them soft enough for easy piercing but not overly mushy.

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and let them cool briefly. A proper cooling period helps maintain their shape during smashing. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F and prepare a large baking sheet. Spray it with non-stick spray for easy release, or line it with parchment paper to simplify cleanup.

Ingredients

To make crispy smashed potatoes, gather:

• 1.5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (or any "creamer" potatoes)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup parsley (minced)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (course grind)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Wash and scrub the potatoes, then add them to a stockpot. Cover them with water and bring to a boil.
2. Boil the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until fork tender. Drain and remove excess moisture, allowing them to cool.
3. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Spray a large baking sheet with non-stick spray and set aside. For easy cleanup, you can line it with parchment paper.
4. Finely mince the parsley and garlic, then combine them with the olive oil in a small bowl. Set aside.
5. Once cool, press down on each potato, smashing them to about 1/3 inch thick. Use a small glass or your hand for this step. Space the smashed potatoes on the baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
6. Drizzle the garlic oil mixture over each potato. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are crispy and golden brown, achieving maximum crunchiness.

Elevating the Dish

The technique employed in preparing crispy smashed potatoes makes a significant difference in flavor and texture. Each step contributes to the ultimate goal of creating deliciously crispy edges while maintaining a fluffy center.

Technique

The secret to the perfect smash lies in how you handle the potatoes. After boiling, a cool potato keeps its form and can be smashed consistently. The gentle pressure helps avoid a mushy texture.

When drizzling the garlic-infused olive oil, ensure each potato gets an even coat. This process adds flavor while helping to achieve that desirable crunch during baking.

Tips and Tricks

1. Don’t rush the boil: Make sure the potatoes are fork-tender for the best outcome.
2. Allow cooling: Letting the potatoes cool down avoids steaming and helps keep them firm enough to smash.
3. Adjust thickness: If you prefer an extra crispy exterior, smash them a little thinner, but watch closely while baking to prevent burning.
4. Explore garlic: Enjoy experimenting with different garlic amounts. Adding a little more can enhance the flavor profile.

Perfecting Results

Each step in the make-process of crispy smashed potatoes contributes to the overall taste and texture. It helps to be mindful of little details, ensuring the recipe executes beautifully every time.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your potatoes aren’t crispy enough, check a few critical points. Ensure that they are spread evenly on the baking sheet to allow for better airflow. Additionally, baking them longer can enhance crispiness, but monitor closely to prevent overbaking.

Experiment with herbs or spices in the garlic oil mix. Adding fresh rosemary or thyme adds a delightful twist, enhancing the flavor and creating variations on this beloved classic.

Serving and Pairing

Crispy smashed potatoes aren’t just a side dish; they also shine as part of a larger meal. Their presentation can elevate any dinner table setting, showcasing those irresistible golden edges.

Presenting Your Creation

Arrange the crispy smashed potatoes on a vibrant serving platter. Garnish with additional minced parsley for a pop of color. Their friendly appearance invites family and friends to gather around and indulge.

Pairings and Storage Methods

Serve crispy smashed potatoes alongside roasted vegetables or grilled meats for a balanced meal. They also complement salads beautifully.

For storage, place leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to regain that delightful crunch.

The joys of cooking often revolve around the simple act of bringing ingredients together. Crispy smashed potatoes embody that spirit, transforming everyday moments into cherished memories. With just a little effort and an enthusiastic heart, anyone can serve up this delicious dish.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Irresistibly crispy smashed potatoes with golden brown edges and a fluffy center, perfect as a side dish for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup parsley, minced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, coarse grind
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Wash and scrub the potatoes, then add them to a stockpot. Cover them with water and bring to a boil.
2. Boil the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until fork tender. Drain and allow them to cool briefly.
3. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Spray a large baking sheet with non-stick spray and set aside.
4. Finely mince the parsley and garlic, then combine them with the olive oil in a small bowl. Set aside.
5. Once cool, press down on each potato, smashing them to about 1/3 inch thick. Space the smashed potatoes on the baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
6. Drizzle the garlic oil mixture over each potato. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are crispy and golden brown.

Notes

Allow potatoes to cool before smashing for better texture. Adjust thickness for extra crispiness as preferred.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: smashed potatoes, crispy potatoes, side dish, comfort food, easy recipe