These smashed potatoes deliver the perfect balance of crispy edges and fluffy interiors, with the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs elevating every bite. Cooking them on the Blackstone griddle gives them a beautiful golden crust that’s both visually appealing and satisfyingly crunchy.
Perfect as a hearty side dish for any meal, these potatoes are simple enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough to serve at cookouts and gatherings. The fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich flavors. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned griddle pro, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Full Recipe:
2 lbs baby Yukon Gold potatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat your Blackstone griddle or a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Boil the baby Yukon Gold potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
Place the cooked potatoes on a greased griddle or skillet. Use a sturdy spatula or potato masher to gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still holds together.
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper on top.
Cook the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they become golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully to avoid breaking them apart.
Add butter on top during the last minute of cooking to melt and add richness.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Blackstone Smashed Potatoes
Smashed potatoes have become a popular comfort food staple, loved for their irresistible combination of crispy edges and soft, fluffy insides. When prepared on a Blackstone griddle, these potatoes take on a whole new level of flavor and texture. The griddle’s even heating and open cooking surface allow the potatoes to develop a golden, crispy crust that is hard to achieve in a traditional oven or skillet. This recipe captures the essence of perfectly seasoned smashed potatoes with aromatic garlic, fragrant rosemary, and thyme, resulting in a side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.
Why Use Yukon Gold Potatoes?
Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for achieving the ideal texture in smashed potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for this recipe due to their naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor. Unlike russet potatoes, which are drier and starchier, Yukon Golds hold their shape better when boiled and smashed, preventing them from falling apart on the griddle. Their thin skins also crisp up beautifully when cooked, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.
The Benefits of Cooking on a Blackstone Griddle
The Blackstone griddle is a versatile outdoor cooking tool that has surged in popularity for good reason. Unlike a traditional grill, the flat griddle surface provides direct and even contact with the heat source, which allows for consistent cooking. For smashed potatoes, this means each piece can achieve an even crispness without burning. The open design also lets moisture evaporate quickly, which is key to getting those coveted crispy edges. Cooking smashed potatoes on a Blackstone also gives you the freedom to cook a large batch at once, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Garlic and Herb Flavor Profile
Garlic, rosemary, and thyme are a classic combination that enhances the natural earthiness of potatoes. The garlic adds pungent warmth and depth, while rosemary and thyme bring woodsy, slightly piney notes that complement the potatoes without overwhelming them. The use of dried herbs in this recipe makes it accessible year-round, but fresh herbs can be substituted for an even more vibrant flavor. The olive oil used to coat the potatoes not only helps in crisping but also acts as a carrier for these aromatics, infusing the potatoes with rich, savory flavors.
Texture: Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside
The hallmark of great smashed potatoes is their contrasting textures—crisp, golden-brown exteriors paired with creamy, tender interiors. Boiling the potatoes first ensures they’re cooked through and soft enough to smash without falling apart. When smashed and then cooked on the griddle with oil and butter, the surface crisps up beautifully while locking in moisture inside. The butter added near the end of cooking contributes to a rich finish and helps create a golden crust. This textural contrast makes every bite delightfully satisfying.
Versatility of Smashed Potatoes
Smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. While the classic garlic and herb version is a crowd-pleaser, you can add toppings such as shredded cheese, bacon bits, or sour cream to elevate the dish further. For a vegan option, simply omit the butter or substitute it with plant-based margarine. They also work well as a base for more elaborate dishes—think loaded smashed potatoes topped with chili or roasted vegetables. This flexibility makes them a great go-to side dish for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday meals.
Pairing Ideas
Blackstone smashed potatoes make an excellent accompaniment to a wide variety of proteins and vegetables. They pair beautifully with grilled meats like steak, chicken, or pork chops, as the crispy, buttery potatoes balance the robust flavors of the meat. They also complement seafood dishes such as pan-seared salmon or grilled shrimp. For vegetarian meals, smashed potatoes can be served alongside grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh garden salad to create a well-rounded plate.
Tips for Perfect Smashed Potatoes Every Time
To ensure success with this recipe, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, don’t over-boil the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but still firm enough to handle. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and difficult to crisp up properly. Second, when smashing, apply gentle pressure to keep the potato in one piece while maximizing surface area for crisping. Third, use enough oil on the griddle to prevent sticking but avoid drowning the potatoes. Finally, flipping the potatoes carefully and only once helps maintain their structure and promotes even browning.
Nutritional Considerations
Smashed potatoes, while indulgently crispy and buttery, can also fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Yukon Gold potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, which contribute to heart health and digestive wellness. Using olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, and herbs contribute antioxidants without adding calories. For those watching their fat intake, the butter amount can be reduced or replaced with a lighter oil alternative.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What makes this recipe especially appealing is how it harnesses the benefits of outdoor griddle cooking combined with simple, wholesome ingredients. The method highlights the natural potato flavor enhanced by fresh herbs and garlic while achieving that coveted crispy texture that everyone loves. It’s approachable for cooks of all skill levels, requiring no fancy techniques or equipment beyond the Blackstone griddle, making it ideal for backyard chefs or anyone looking to impress guests with minimal fuss.
Conclusion
Blackstone Smashed Potatoes are a perfect marriage of crispy texture, savory herbs, and rich garlic flavor. Their rustic charm and simplicity make them a comforting side dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends for a cookout, or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe delivers satisfying results every time. The Blackstone griddle adds an outdoor twist, giving these potatoes a beautiful crust and a unique smoky flavor that sets them apart from typical oven-baked smashed potatoes. Versatile, flavorful, and utterly delicious, these smashed potatoes are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.