If you are searching for the perfect combination of creamy and crunchy, you have to try this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe. These little potatoes have tender, fluffy insides wrapped in a golden, crispy exterior that’s simply irresistible. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, every bite bursts with comforting flavor and just the right amount of seasoning. This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe takes humble ingredients and transforms them into a crowd-pleaser that feels both elegant and homey at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular enamel dish with a blue rim holds about twenty small, round, light brown potatoes stacked in two layers, resting on a wooden cutting board. Around the board, small white bowls hold coarse salt, grated white cheese, chopped green herbs, and golden liquid oil. The cutting board sits on a white marbled surface, with a beige linen cloth slightly wrinkled on the lower left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the creamy centers of the potatoes to the rich, buttery crispiness on the outside. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

1 1/2 lbs small yellow or red potatoes: These hold their shape well and provide that perfect creamy interior.
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Adds richness and helps create that irresistible crispy crust.
2 tablespoons melted butter: Infuses a luscious, savory flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural potato goodness.
Optional toppings – freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chives: Adds a burst of salty, fresh notes to elevate every bite.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by placing your scrubbed potatoes in a large pot and covering them with water. To infuse flavor right from the start, season the water generously with about a tablespoon of salt. Bring it to a high boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Let the potatoes cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. This step ensures the inside will be soft and creamy as you want for this dish.

Step 2: Prepare for Smashed Perfection

Once cooked, drain the potatoes and allow them to cool for about five minutes, so they’re easier to handle. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly brush a large baking sheet with one tablespoon of olive oil. This keeps everything from sticking and helps build that golden crust.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Place each potato on the greased baking sheet. Now for the fun part — gently press down on each one with the bottom of a jar, a fork, or a potato masher until it’s about half an inch thick, but still intact. The goal is to create a large surface area that will crisp up beautifully in the oven while keeping the potato whole enough to maintain its creamy texture.

Step 4: Season and Oil Generously

Drizzle or brush both olive oil and melted butter evenly over the smashed potatoes. Be generous here because this fat is what helps the potatoes crisp to perfection. Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper over everything for that fundamental seasoning that ties all the flavors of this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe together.

Step 5: Bake to Crispy Glory

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You don’t have to flip the potatoes; patience is key here as the heat crisps them beautifully from below and above. When they’re golden and irresistibly crunchy, your Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is ready to be enjoyed.

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

The image shows a textured brown pan with several small round light beige mushrooms placed on it. On one side, there are mushrooms stuffed with a bright yellow filling that looks soft and fluffy, with some of the mushrooms slightly cracked open showing the yellow inside. In the center of the pan, there is a clear glass with some liquid inside. The white marbled surface is visible around the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding just the right toppings can take this dish from delicious to downright unforgettable. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes for a salty punch, and add some finely chopped fresh chives for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color. A light drizzle of sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce can also work wonders.

Side Dishes

These potatoes are perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Their crispy, buttery texture pairs well with almost anything, especially dishes with complementary herb or garlic notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these crispy smashed potatoes in a rustic wooden bowl sprinkled with extra Parmesan for an inviting, casual vibe at a dinner party. Or, line them up on a long platter with small bowls of dipping sauces on the side for a fun appetizer spread. They also shine tossed in a salad with arugula and a lemon vinaigrette if you’re looking for something a bit unexpected.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers from this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe, no worries. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed well will maintain their flavor and prevent the edges from drying out.

Freezing

While these potatoes are best fresh for ultimate crispiness, you can freeze cooked potatoes before smashing them. Once boiled and cooled, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge and proceed with smashing and baking. They won’t be quite as crispy as fresh but still delicious.

Reheating

To bring back that crispy texture when reheating leftovers, avoid the microwave. Instead, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 400-degree oven for about 10 minutes. This method restores their crunch and keeps the centers lovely and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be aware that larger potatoes might take a bit longer to boil until tender and need a gentler hand when smashing to keep them intact. The cooking times may also need adjustment.

What kind of potato works best for crispy smashed potatoes?

Small yellow or red potatoes are ideal because they have a waxy texture that holds together well and develop creamy insides. Russets can work but tend to be fluffier and may break apart more easily.

Can I make these potatoes vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using olive oil instead of butter and skipping the cheese or replacing it with a plant-based alternative. The crispy texture will still be delicious!

Is it necessary to boil the potatoes before smashing?

Boiling first makes sure the potatoes are cooked through and soft inside. This step is key to achieving the contrast between creamy interiors and crispy exteriors in this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe.

Can I add herbs or spices to the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, rosemary, or thyme onto the potatoes before baking for additional layers of flavor. Just be sure not to overpower the natural potato taste.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is one of those kitchen victories that feels rewarding every time. The balance of textures, the ease of preparation, and the flexibility with flavor make it a true favorite to keep coming back to. Give it a try and watch these golden, crispy delights disappear faster than you expect!