Smashed Potatoes

Published: February 9, 2026

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: The process is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for beginners.
Crispy and Flavorful: Roasting the smashed potatoes gives them a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
Versatile Serving Options: These potatoes pair well with various main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and cheeses to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Their unique presentation and rich flavors make them a hit at parties and gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these smashed potatoes, you will need a few essential tools that will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Pot
Sheet pan
Cooking spray
Potato masher or glass
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Pot: A sturdy pot is essential for boiling the baby potatoes evenly until they’re tender.
Sheet pan: A large sheet pan allows for even roasting of the smashed potatoes without overcrowding.
Potato masher or glass: This tool is crucial for flattening the boiled potatoes, giving them their unique shape and texture.

Ingredients

These smashed potatoes are baby potatoes that are boiled until tender, then smashed flat, topped with garlic and herb butter, and roasted until crispy and browned. A unique and unexpected potato preparation that always gets rave reviews!

For the Potatoes

1 pound baby potatoes (such as red potatoes or Yukon Gold)

For the Garlic Herb Butter

4 tablespoons butter (melted)
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Topping

1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Other

Cooking spray

How to Make Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the baby potatoes and cook for 18-22 minutes or until they are tender.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

Drain the boiled potatoes and place them in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to carefully flatten each potato.

Step 5: Make the Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Add Butter Mixture and Cheese

Drizzle the garlic herb butter mixture over each smashed potato.
Sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese over all of the potatoes.

Step 7: Bake Until Crispy

Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Once done, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy these delicious smashed potatoes as a fantastic side dish that brings flavor and excitement to any meal!

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Their crispy texture and savory flavor make them versatile for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve smashed potatoes.

With Grilled Chicken

Pair your smashed potatoes with grilled chicken seasoned with herbs for a balanced meal that’s full of flavor.

As a Side to Beef Stew

Serve smashed potatoes alongside a hearty beef stew. The crispy potatoes soak up the rich broth beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Garnish smashed potatoes with fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for an extra burst of freshness and color.

As Part of a Veggie Platter

Include smashed potatoes in a platter of roasted vegetables. Their unique texture complements the crunchiness of other veggies.

With Creamy Dips

Offer smashed potatoes with creamy dips such as sour cream or garlic aioli for added richness and flavor.

Accompanied by Salad

A light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette, pairs well with the heaviness of smashed potatoes, creating a balanced plate.

How to Perfect Smashed Potatoes

To ensure your smashed potatoes come out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Choose the right potatoes: Use baby potatoes like red or Yukon Gold for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t overboil: Boil the potatoes just until tender to maintain their shape when smashed.
Use hot butter: Drizzling hot melted butter over the smashed potatoes enhances flavor and helps them crisp up in the oven.
Space them out: When placing the smashed potatoes on the baking sheet, give them enough space to allow for even roasting.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before baking to ensure optimal flavor.
Broil for extra crispiness: For an even crunchier top, broil the smashed potatoes for the last few minutes of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are a fantastic side dish that complements many main courses. Here are some delicious options to consider serving alongside them.

Grilled Vegetables
Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add vibrant colors and flavors that enhance your meal.
Roasted Chicken
Juicy roasted chicken pairs nicely, making it a hearty option that balances well with crispy smashed potatoes.
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy interior of smashed potatoes.
Sauteed Greens
Kale or spinach sautéed in olive oil offers a nutritious green option that brightens up your plate.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer protein while complementing the comfort of smashed potatoes.
Grilled Salmon
The rich taste of grilled salmon pairs beautifully with crispy smashed potatoes, providing a satisfying meal.
Veggie Stir-Fry
A colorful veggie stir-fry adds crunch and variety, making your plate more exciting and nutritious.
Cauliflower Mash
A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes that still provides creaminess while allowing you to enjoy both textures on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making smashed potatoes, there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind for the best results.

Using the wrong potatoes: Not all potatoes are created equal. For the best smashed potatoes, choose waxy varieties like baby Red or Yukon Gold potatoes.
Overcooking the potatoes: If you cook the potatoes for too long, they can become mushy and lose their shape. Boil them just until tender.
Not seasoning enough: A little salt goes a long way. Be sure to season your water and the butter mixture to enhance the flavor of your smashed potatoes.
Skipping the roasting step: Smashed potatoes need that crispy texture! Don’t skip roasting them after smashing; it’s key for achieving that golden brown finish.
Not using enough butter: Butter adds richness and flavor. Make sure to drizzle enough of the garlic herb butter over each potato before roasting for maximum taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store smashed potatoes in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Smashed Potatoes

Place cooled smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Smashed Potatoes

Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: In a skillet, heat over medium heat with a bit of oil or butter, cooking until warmed through and crispy on both sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Smashed Potatoes?

Smashed potatoes are baby potatoes that are boiled until tender, then flattened and roasted until crispy. They are flavorful and versatile.

Can I make Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare smashed potatoes ahead. Simply store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use.

How do I customize my Smashed Potatoes?

You can add different herbs, spices, or even cheese variations to your smashed potatoes. Experimenting with flavors makes them unique!

What do I serve with Smashed Potatoes?

Smashed potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a hearty salad.

Final Thoughts

These smashed potatoes offer a delightful twist on traditional potato dishes. Their crispy exterior combined with a fluffy interior makes them irresistible! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Give it a try at your next meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card