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!
You can never go wrong with potatoes, whether it’s baked potato wedges, crock pot mashed potatoes, or these simple but satisfying smashed potatoes.
When I’m looking for an easy side dish that I know the whole family will love, I turn to smashed potatoes. I love this dish because it’s simple to make, and can be flavored in so many different ways!
How do you make smashed potatoes?
The first step in this recipe is to boil baby potatoes in salted water until they’re tender. Place the potatoes on a sheet pan, then carefully flatten them. Drizzle a mixture of melted butter, garlic, herbs and parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Bake the potatoes until they’re golden brown and crispy, then serve and enjoy.
Tips for the perfect side dish
- Any type of baby potato will work in this recipe, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. I don’t recommend using larger potatoes that have been cut into smaller pieces, as they’ll fall apart when you try to smash them.
- I typically use the bottom of a drinking glass to smash my potatoes. You can also use the flat end of a meat mallet, a potato masher or a measuring cup. Try to gently smash the potato so that it flattens, but stays in one piece.
- Smashed potatoes pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak or marinated pork chops. They also make a great side side for broiled salmon and sauteed shrimp.
- These potatoes will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the potatoes, place them in an oven or toaster oven, then cook at 400 degrees F until they’ve regained their crispy texture.
Smashed Potatoes Flavor Variations
While these potatoes are delicious as-is, you can add other ingredients to customize the flavors to your tastes.
- Cheese: Instead of parmesan, add a sprinkle of cheddar, mozzarella or pepper jack during the last 5 minutes of the baking time.
- Herbs: Swap out the parsley for fresh basil, chives or thyme.
- Flavorings: Add some savory spices such as onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder or Cajun seasoning.
- Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, omit the parmesan cheese and use olive oil instead of butter.
Make Ahead Directions
This dish can be prepared up to 8 hours in advance. Boil the potatoes, then smash them according to recipe directions. Drizzle the garlic butter over the potatoes, then place them on the sheet pan. Cover the pan, then store it in the refrigerator. When it’s time for dinner, simply place the pan into the oven and you’ll be ready to go.
Take your plain old potatoes and transform them into something special with this recipe. Your family will be sure to thank you!
More delicious side dishes
Smashed Potatoes Video
Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby potatoes such as red potatoes or Yukon Gold
- 4 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese finely grated
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook for 18-22 minutes or until tender.
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
- Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray. Drain the potatoes and place them in a single layer on the pan.
- Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to carefully flatten each potato.
- Place the butter, garlic, Italian seasoning and salt and pepper to taste in a bowl. Stir to combine.
- Drizzle the butter mixture over each potato. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle with parsley, then serve.
Beti says
Such a fantastic side dish!! These smashed potatoes are SO delicious!
katerina says
These smashed potatoes are amazing! The perfect side dish!
Allyson Zea says
I make these all the time, so good!
Beth says
These look so delicious and yummy! My family is going to enjoy these!
Toni Dash says
Really a perfect side dish!! This is so good!
Erin | Dinners,Dishes and Dessert says
These smashed potatoes are mouth watering!
Amanda says
I need to try these immediately. They look so good!