Smashed Potatoes Recipe – Crispy Roasted Baby Potatoes with Garlic & Herbs

Introduction to Smashed Potatoes

Welcome to the crispy, golden world of smashed potatoes—where rustic charm meets irresistible crunch. Picture this: tender baby potatoes with fluffy centers, smashed flat and roasted until their edges crisp to perfection. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast of textures, from buttery softness to golden crunch.

These potatoes are a crowd-pleaser for good reason. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and pair beautifully with everything from roast chicken to brunch eggs. Whether seasoned simply with salt and pepper or dressed up with garlic, herbs, and cheese, smashed potatoes always steal the show.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or lazy weekend brunches, they’re a versatile side dish that feels both comforting and elevated. Once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

What Are Smashed Potatoes?

Smashed potatoes are a simple yet genius dish made by boiling small potatoes until tender, then smashing them flat and roasting until crispy. The result? A potato that’s part mashed, part roasted, and completely addictive.

Unlike mashed potatoes, which are whipped into a creamy consistency, smashed potatoes retain their shape and texture. And unlike roasted potatoes, which are cubed or halved, smashed potatoes have more surface area exposed—meaning more crispy bits.

They’re loved for their texture: soft inside, crunchy outside. And they’re incredibly versatile—season them with garlic, herbs, cheese, or spices, and serve with dips or sauces.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something crispy and comforting, smashed potatoes deliver flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every bite.

Origins & Rise in Popularity

Smashed potatoes have rustic roots, likely born from the need to make the most of boiled potatoes by crisping them in the oven. Their simplicity and adaptability made them a staple in farmhouse kitchens and casual meals.

In recent years, they’ve had a modern makeover, thanks to food bloggers, recipe developers, and viral cooking videos. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have showcased their golden, craggy edges and endless topping possibilities, turning them into a must-try dish.

Their popularity lies in their comfort food appeal and visual charm. They’re easy to make, fun to customize, and perfect for entertaining. Whether served with aioli, sour cream, or chimichurri, smashed potatoes are now a staple in both home kitchens and trendy restaurants.

They’ve earned their place as a go-to side dish for casual gatherings, holiday feasts, and everything in between.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

The key to perfect smashed potatoes starts with choosing the right type of potato. Opt for waxy varieties like:

• Baby Yukon Golds: buttery flavor and creamy texture
• Red potatoes: hold their shape well and crisp beautifully
• Fingerlings: small and slender, ideal for extra crunch

Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets—they tend to fall apart and don’t crisp as well.

Size matters: smaller potatoes yield better results. They cook faster, smash more evenly, and crisp up with more surface area exposed. Aim for potatoes about the size of a golf ball.

Prepping tips:

• Scrub thoroughly but leave the skins on—they add flavor and texture
• Boil in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes)
• Add aromatics like garlic cloves or bay leaves to the water for extra flavor

Once boiled, drain and let them steam-dry in the pot for a few minutes. This step removes excess moisture, which helps them crisp up in the oven.

Choosing the right potato and prepping it properly ensures your smashed potatoes are flavorful, crispy, and golden every time.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes Place 1½–2 lbs of baby potatoes in a pot. Cover with cold water, add 1 tbsp salt, and optional aromatics like garlic cloves or bay leaves. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).

2. Drain and Steam-Dry Drain the potatoes and return them to the hot pot. Let them sit uncovered for 5 minutes to steam-dry—this removes moisture and helps them crisp.

3. Smash the Potatoes Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place potatoes spaced apart. Use a fork, potato masher, or measuring cup to gently press each potato until flattened but still intact.

4. Season and Oil Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley if desired.

5. Bake Until Crispy Bake in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 25–35 minutes, or until edges are golden and crispy. No need to flip—let the bottoms crisp undisturbed for best texture.

6. Serve and Enjoy Serve hot with dipping sauces like sour cream, aioli, or ranch. Garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan for extra flair.

These smashed potatoes are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid large or starchy potatoes—they don’t smash well and won’t crisp properly. Stick to small, waxy varieties.

Skipping the steam-dry step after boiling leaves excess moisture, which prevents crisping. Always let them dry in the hot pot for a few minutes.

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—space them out so the heat can circulate and crisp the edges.

Finally, don’t smash too thick. Thin, even smashing creates more surface area and crunch. Aim for about ½ inch thick for the perfect balance of fluffy center and crispy exterior.