Delight in the crispy, creamy goodness of Smashed Potatoes with this simple and flavorful recipe. These potatoes are boiled until tender, smashed, and then baked until golden and crispy, creating a delightful side dish or snack that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (or small Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika, chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Boil the Potatoes:
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot.
- Cover the potatoes with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
Smash the Potatoes:
- Drain the cooked potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
- Use the bottom of a glass or a fork to gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still holds together.
Season and Bake:
- Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, ensuring each potato is coated evenly.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the edges.
Serve:
- Remove the smashed potatoes from the oven.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve the potatoes hot as a delicious side dish or snack.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of ketchup, aioli, or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Main Dish Pairings: Enjoy alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a hearty salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Potato Variety: Baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different seasonings such as Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, or cajun seasoning for added flavor.
- Crispiness: For extra crispy edges, broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes: Provide carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin C.
- Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats and enhances the crispiness of the potatoes when baked.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarian diets.
- Vegan: Suitable for vegan diets.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal ingredients for a quick and tasty dish.
- Crispy and Creamy: Enjoy the contrast of crispy exteriors and creamy interiors of the smashed potatoes.
- Versatile: Serve as a side, snack, or appetizer with various seasoning options.
Conclusion:
Smashed Potatoes are a delightful and versatile dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether served as a side dish to complement your main course or enjoyed as a snack, these crispy and creamy potatoes are sure to be a hit. Customize them with your favorite seasonings and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade smashed potatoes.