Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these oven baked crispy smashed potatoes! They’re like a warm hug on a plate—crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they’re the ultimate comfort food. I remember the first time I made them; I had friends over for dinner, and they were a total showstopper! Everyone was raving about how they couldn’t get enough. What makes this recipe stand out is how simple it is, yet it feels so fancy. You just boil, smash, season, and bake! Trust me, once you try these crispy gems, they’ll become your go-to side dish for every occasion. They pair perfectly with just about anything, and the best part? They’re super easy to whip up! So, let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How to Prepare Oven Baked Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Alright, let’s get those oven baked crispy smashed potatoes ready! It’s as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how delicious these little beauties turn out. Just follow my steps, and you’ll have a plate of perfect potatoes in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for that golden, crispy finish!
- While the oven heats up, wash those baby potatoes thoroughly to get rid of any dirt. Then, toss them in a pot of water and bring it to a boil. You’ll want to cook them until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Just poke one with a fork to check—it should slide in easily.
- Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain them and let them cool for a few minutes. You don’t want to burn your fingers when it’s time to smash!
- Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup and ensures your potatoes don’t stick. Now, place the cooled potatoes on the baking sheet, giving them some space to breathe.
- Now comes the fun part—smashing! Using a fork or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until they’re flattened but still intact. Aim for about half an inch thick; you want that crispy edge!
- Drizzle the olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes. This is crucial for that crispy texture! Then, sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to add flavor. Don’t be shy; give them a good seasoning!
- Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake those beauties for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and when they’re golden brown and crispy, you’ll know they’re ready to shine!
- Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve them warm. Trust me, the aroma will have everyone gathering around the table!
And there you have it! Enjoy your crispy smashed potatoes, and don’t be surprised if they disappear in a flash!
Tips for Success
To make sure your oven baked crispy smashed potatoes turn out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got a few handy tips for you! First off, don’t skip the boiling step. It’s essential for getting that fluffy interior. If you boil them too long, they might become mushy, so keep an eye on them—fork-tender is what you’re aiming for!
Next, when you smash the potatoes, apply just enough pressure to flatten them without breaking them apart completely. You want those edges to get crispy, which means leaving them a bit thick. Also, don’t skimp on the olive oil! A good drizzle is key to achieving that golden, crunchy exterior. If you want extra flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs right before baking. Oh, and remember to space them out on the baking sheet; they need room to crisp up!
Lastly, if you find they’re not as crispy as you’d like after baking, just pop them back in for a few more minutes. Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s always good to keep an eye on them during the final minutes. Happy cooking!
Variations of Oven Baked Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Now, let’s get creative with those oven baked crispy smashed potatoes! One of my favorite ways to switch things up is by adding different herbs. Fresh rosemary or thyme can bring a lovely earthy flavor, while a sprinkle of dill will add a refreshing twist. Feeling adventurous? Try tossing in some chili flakes for a spicy kick!
If you want to elevate these potatoes even more, consider adding toppings before baking. Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a creamy tang, and a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits is always a crowd-pleaser! You could even drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top after baking for a touch of sweetness.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite seasonings and toppings. You really can’t go wrong!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving oven baked crispy smashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless! They make a fabulous side dish to just about any main course. I love pairing them with juicy grilled chicken or a perfectly seared steak. The crispy edges and fluffy centers complement the savory flavors beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. The contrast of textures is delightful! And let’s not forget about fish—these potatoes go incredibly well with baked salmon, adding a lovely crunch to each bite.
For a cozy family dinner, pair them with a hearty beef stew or chicken pot pie. Trust me, these smashed potatoes will elevate your meal and have everyone coming back for seconds!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note before you dive into these delicious oven baked crispy smashed potatoes: nutritional values can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided some general information, keep in mind that precise nutritional data isn’t something I can provide. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of the ingredients you choose for the most accurate information. Enjoy your cooking, and remember that these potatoes are all about flavor and fun!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are my favorite for their size and texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes as well. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the potato type.
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), let the smashed potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat well in the oven to regain that crispy texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can certainly prep these potatoes ahead of time! Just boil and smash them, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, drizzle with oil and seasonings, and pop them in the oven. It’s a great time-saver!
Why are my smashed potatoes not crispy?
If they’re not crispy enough, it could be due to not using enough oil or overcrowding the baking sheet. Make sure each potato has space to breathe, and don’t be shy with that olive oil!
What can I serve these potatoes with?
These oven baked crispy smashed potatoes are super versatile! They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even a fresh salad. They’re the perfect side for almost any meal!
Oven Baked Crispy Smashed Potatoes: 7 Steps to Perfection
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Oven baked crispy smashed potatoes are a tasty and easy side dish. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and boil the baby potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Using a fork or potato masher, gently smash each potato until flattened.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Choose small to medium-sized potatoes for best results.
- Experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: oven baked crispy smashed potatoes, crispy potatoes, side dish
