If you’re craving a side dish that combines crispy edges with gooey cheese goodness, these Crispy Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are your answer. Perfectly smashed and roasted to perfection, they offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these potatoes are sure to become a favorite.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and coat two baking sheets generously with olive oil.
- Place small yellow potatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Arrange them on the oiled baking sheets and use the back of a measuring cup to press them down to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Drizzle the flattened potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, the remaining salt, and pepper.
- Roast the potatoes for 25 to 35 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Before serving, garnish with additional sea salt, fresh herbs like parsley or chives, and optional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds small yellow potatoes
- 2 teaspoons sea salt, divided
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for coating baking sheets
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and/or dill)
- Flaky sea salt, optional
- Parmesan cheese, optional
FAQ
- What are the best potatoes for making smashed potatoes?
- Small yellow potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they become especially creamy inside when cooked. Aim for potatoes that are no more than 2 inches in diameter to ensure they crisp up well in the oven.
- How do you achieve the perfect crispy texture for smashed potatoes?
- To achieve a crispy texture, boil the potatoes until they are just past fork-tender, then drain and smash them onto an oiled baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake until golden brown and crisp around the edges.
- What are some suggested toppings for smashed potatoes?
- Smashed potatoes can be garnished with freshly grated Parmesan or vegan Parmesan, red pepper flakes, chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives, and flaky sea salt. Sauces like chipotle, vegan sour cream, or avocado sauce also pair well.
- Can I prepare smashed potatoes in advance?
- Smashed potatoes are best enjoyed hot and crisp straight from the oven. However, you can boil and smash them in advance, then bake them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture.
- What are some dishes that pair well with smashed potatoes?
- Smashed potatoes make a great side dish for veggie burgers, black bean burgers, or BBQ sandwiches. They also complement classic holiday dishes such as green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and stuffing.
Tips
- Choose small yellow potatoes no larger than 2 inches in diameter, as they produce a creamy center and crisp up well in the oven.
- Avoid using parchment paper when baking; instead, directly oil the baking sheets. This ensures the potatoes become extra crispy underneath.
- Use the back of a measuring cup to gently smash the cooked potatoes to about 1/4-inch thickness, allowing them to crisp evenly.
- Serve the potatoes immediately after baking for the best texture, and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
Equipment
- Large Rimmed Baking Sheets – For roasting the potatoes.
- Measuring Cup – Used to smash the potatoes.
- Olive Oil Dispenser or Brush – For brushing the olive oil on the baking sheets and drizzling over the potatoes.
