If you’re searching for the perfect side dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, look no further than smashed potatoes. This simple yet delicious recipe transforms humble potatoes into a gourmet experience, making them a favorite at dinner tables everywhere. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for your family, smashed potatoes are sure to impress. In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making the best smashed potatoes, from choosing the right potatoes to adding the perfect seasonings.
What Are Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are a versatile dish that sits somewhere between mashed potatoes and roasted potatoes. Small potatoes, such as baby or new potatoes, are boiled until tender, then gently smashed to flatten them. This creates more surface area, which turns beautifully crispy when roasted in the oven. The result is a potato that’s crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor.
The Key to Perfect Smashed Potatoes
1. Choosing the Right Potatoes
The type of potato you use is crucial to achieving the best results. Small, waxy potatoes like baby Yukon Gold, new potatoes, or red potatoes work best. These varieties hold their shape well after boiling and smashing, and their thin skins become wonderfully crispy when roasted.
2. Boiling the Potatoes
Start by boiling the potatoes in salted water until they’re just tender. You want them to be cooked through but not falling apart. The salt in the water helps to season the potatoes from the inside out, making each bite flavorful.
3. Smashed, Not Mashed
After boiling, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Use the bottom of a glass, a potato masher, or even a fork to gently press down on each potato until it’s flattened but still intact. The key here is to smash them enough to create rough edges, which will become crispy in the oven, but not so much that they fall apart.
4. Adding Flavor
This is where you can get creative. Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, ensuring they’re well-coated, as this will help them crisp up in the oven. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Popular additions include garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or Parmesan cheese. You can even add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky kick or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
5. Roasting to Perfection
Roast the potatoes in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. The high heat is essential for creating that perfect contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft interior. About halfway through, flip the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
6. Serving Suggestions
Smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served with just about anything. They’re a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. For a vegetarian meal, pair them with a hearty salad or roasted vegetables. You can also elevate them with toppings like sour cream, chives, or a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
Tips for Customizing Smashed Potatoes
1. Cheese Lover’s Dream
For cheese enthusiasts, adding a sprinkle of your favorite cheese before the final minutes of roasting can take smashed potatoes to the next level. Cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère work particularly well, melting into the nooks and crannies of the potatoes and adding a rich, savory flavor.
2. Herb-Infused Butter
Instead of using plain olive oil, try brushing the potatoes with herb-infused butter. Melt butter in a saucepan and add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Brush this mixture over the smashed potatoes before roasting to infuse them with a fragrant, buttery taste.
3. Spicy Smashed Potatoes
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce over the potatoes before they go into the oven. This will give them a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with a cooling dip like ranch or blue cheese.
4. Lemon-Garlic Zest
For a bright and zesty twist, combine minced garlic with lemon zest and sprinkle it over the potatoes along with the olive oil. This combination adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that’s perfect for summer meals.
5. Asian-Inspired Smashed Potatoes
Take your smashed potatoes in a different direction with an Asian twist. Toss the potatoes in sesame oil instead of olive oil, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and a dash of soy sauce. Add some sliced green onions or a sprinkle of furikake seasoning for an umami-packed side dish.
Health Benefits of Smashed Potatoes
While potatoes often get a bad rap for being a high-carb food, they actually have several health benefits when prepared properly. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. By roasting instead of frying, you retain more nutrients and avoid the unhealthy fats associated with frying.
Additionally, using olive oil or avocado oil in your smashed potatoes can provide healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. By choosing to flavor your potatoes with herbs and spices rather than heavy sauces, you can keep the dish light and nutritious.
Pairing Smashed Potatoes with Main Dishes
1. Steak and Smashed Potatoes
There’s nothing quite like the classic combination of steak and potatoes. Smashed potatoes, with their crispy edges and fluffy insides, make the perfect accompaniment to a juicy, tender steak. For an extra touch, drizzle the potatoes with garlic butter or serve them alongside a creamy horseradish sauce.
2. Roasted Chicken with Smashed Potatoes
Roasted chicken and smashed potatoes are a match made in heaven. The crispy skin of the chicken pairs perfectly with the crunch of the potatoes. Add a side of roasted vegetables, and you have a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
3. Vegetarian Delights
Smashed potatoes aren’t just for meat lovers. They make a great addition to a vegetarian meal as well. Serve them with a hearty lentil stew, a quinoa salad, or grilled vegetables for a balanced and filling vegetarian dinner.
4. Fish and Smashed Potatoes
For a lighter option, pair smashed potatoes with grilled or baked fish. The potatoes provide a satisfying contrast to the delicate, flaky texture of the fish. A squeeze of lemon juice over both the fish and potatoes ties the flavors together beautifully.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Side Dish Game
Smashed potatoes are a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them with a simple weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, they’re sure to be a hit. With endless possibilities for customization, you can tailor smashed potatoes to suit any taste or dietary preference.
So, next time you’re in need of a side dish that’s both comforting and impressive, give smashed potatoes a try. Their crispy exterior, fluffy interior, and endless flavor possibilities make them a standout choice for any meal. Enjoy the process of making them as much as eating them, and don’t be surprised if they become a regular part of your culinary repertoire!
