Name: Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds small yellow potatoes; 2 teaspoons sea salt, divided; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for the pans; 1½ teaspoons garlic powder; ¾ teaspoon onion powder; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, and/or dill); Flaky sea salt, to taste; Parmesan cheese, to taste

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 29 reviews

Smashed Potatoes offer a delightful way to enjoy crispy, golden exteriors hugging fluffy, tender interiors. This dish takes humble small yellow potatoes and elevates them with simple seasonings and roasting technique that produces an irresistible crunch without losing that comforting softness inside. Whether you need a standout side or a snack that will quickly become everyone’s favorite, these Smashed Potatoes deliver unmatched texture and flavor with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Smashed Potatoes lies in the simplicity of ingredients that truly highlight and complement each other. Each component serves a purpose, creating a perfect balance of crispness, seasoning, and fresh brightness.

2 pounds small yellow potatoes: Ideal for roasting evenly with thin skins that crisp beautifully.
2 teaspoons sea salt, divided: Essential for seasoning during boiling and roasting to enhance flavor.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for the pans: Helps develop a golden crust and prevents sticking.
1½ teaspoons garlic powder: Adds a subtle, warm garlicky note without overpowering.
¾ teaspoon onion powder: Brings mild sweetness and depth to the seasoning mix.
Freshly ground black pepper: Provides gentle heat and complexity.
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, and/or dill: Introduces fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of green color.
Flaky sea salt (optional): For finishing touch, adding crunch and an extra burst of saltiness.
Parmesan cheese (optional): For a savory, umami-rich sprinkle that complements the roasted potatoes perfectly.

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Parboil the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and generously oiling two baking sheets. The key here is to give the potatoes a quick bath in lightly salted boiling water just until they are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures they are cooked through but still firm enough to smash without falling apart.

Step 2: Smash with Care

Once drained and slightly cooled, place each potato on the oiled baking sheets. Use the back of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed tool to gently press down until each potato is flattened to about ¼-inch thick. This smashing step is where texture is born, creating more surface area to crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Season and Roast

Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and scatter the garlic powder, onion powder, remaining sea salt, and a good grind of black pepper on top. Place the trays in the oven and roast for 25 to 35 minutes, turning the pans once halfway through cooking so every side has a chance to get golden and crisp around the edges.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

After roasting, sprinkle your Smashed Potatoes with flaky sea salt and fresh herbs to brighten things up. If you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds irresistible savory notes that melt slightly with the residual heat. Serve immediately for the best texture.

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Enhance your Smashed Potatoes by topping them with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or dill. A scattering of flaky sea salt adds that perfect final crunch and bursts of saltiness. For something extra rich, a light dusting of Parmesan cheese complements the crispy edges beautifully.

Side Dishes

Smashed Potatoes shine alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or pan-seared fish. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies, creating a balanced and vibrant meal with contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Smashed Potatoes stacked with layers of melted cheese for a loaded version everyone will rave about. Alternatively, turn them into bite-sized appetizers topped with sour cream and chives, perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover Smashed Potatoes completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They remain tasty but may lose some crispness which can be refreshed during reheating.

Freezing

For longer storage, arrange cooled Smashed Potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze individually until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy later without sacrificing much flavor or texture.

Reheating

To regain their crisp texture, reheat Smashed Potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy. A quick oven roast keeps them crunchy and delicious like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for Smashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While small yellow potatoes work wonderfully due to their texture and thin skin, baby red potatoes or fingerlings also make excellent choices. Just adjust boiling time slightly depending on size and firmness.

Do I have to boil the potatoes before smashing?

Yes, boiling is crucial to cook the potatoes through so that the interior is soft and fluffy. Skipping this step means the potatoes won’t be tender on the inside, which is key to the satisfying contrast with the crispy edges.

Can I make Smashed Potatoes vegan?

Definitely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly, offering tons of flavor without dairy.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?

While fresh herbs add brightness and color, dried herbs can be used in a pinch. Add them along with the garlic and onion powders during seasoning. Just remember fresh herbs sprinkled after roasting give the best pop of flavor.

How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?

Using enough olive oil, smashing the potatoes thin enough (about ¼-inch), and roasting at a high temperature with space between the potatoes on the baking sheet all contribute to maximum crispiness. Turning the pans halfway ensures even browning too.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Smashed Potatoes enough as a must-try recipe that combines simple ingredients with a satisfying texture that always impresses. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner upgrade or a party favorite, take a moment to try them out and enjoy every crispy, fluffy bite alongside your favorite dishes. You’ll be coming back for seconds and thirds in no time!