Smashed Potatoes

This smashed potato recipe results in ultra-crispy potatoes with an easy two-step cooking process. Potatoes are boiled until tender, then smashed to create a craggy, nubbly surface that, when brushed with butter, results in a crunchy golden-brown exterior.

Chives and parsley add flavor and brightness, making this a perfect side dish. Try them alongside burgers instead of french fries!

Ingredients for Smashed Potatoes

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• Red potatoes: Small, waxy potatoes are the perfect size and texture for this smashed potato recipe.
• Olive oil: Covering the bottom of the baking pan with oil keeps the potatoes from sticking and helps brown the bottoms.
• Butter: Potatoes and butter are a perfect complement. Brushing butter over the flattened potatoes adds flavor and makes them golden brown.
• Chives: Oniony minced chives add a fresh, green allium flavor.
• Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the finished potatoes to brighten up this rich dish.

Directions

Step 1: Boil the potatoes

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Preheat the oven to 450°F. Add the potatoes to a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer, cooking the potatoes uncovered until tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well.

Editor’s Tip: After draining, let the potatoes sit in the warm pot off heat for a few minutes to allow additional moisture to evaporate—drier potatoes equal crispier potatoes.

Step 2: Smash the potatoes

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Coat the bottom of a 15×10-inch baking sheet with olive oil. Lay out the cooked potatoes, and use a potato masher to carefully flatten each one to about 1/2 inch thick. Brush the potatoes with butter, and season well with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Roast the potatoes

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Cook the potatoes until they’re golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Add chives and parsley and serve hot.

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Smashed Potato Variations

• Drizzle with sauce: For added flavor, make your favorite sauce, like this garlic scape pesto sauce, and pour it over the potatoes after cooking.
• Serve with a dip: These crispy smash potatoes can be picked up and dipped into your favorite dip and served as an appetizer. Homemade ranch dip or onion dip go great with potatoes.
• Change up the seasoning: Chives and parsley are classic potato complements, but garlic powder would add dimension, or you can add some heat with cayenne. Or try your favorite seasoning blend, like za’atar or taco.
• Add bacon: Can you go wrong with bacon and potatoes? While the potatoes are roasting, cook off some diced bacon until crispy, and sprinkle it over the potatoes before serving.
• Top with cheese: After the potatoes are fully roasted, take them out and sprinkle with grated cheddar or another melting cheese. Return to the oven for two to three minutes, until melted.

How to Store Smashed Potatoes

After the potatoes have completely cooled, put them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge.

Can you make crispy smashed potatoes ahead of time?

Get a head start on the dish by boiling and smashing the potatoes. Hold them in the refrigerator for a day, then brush with butter and roast just before serving.

Smashed Potato Tips

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Can I use a different type of potato to make smashed potatoes?

Our recipe recommends small red potatoes, but any small, round potato will work, like Yukon Golds.

How do I make sure my potatoes come out super crispy?

In addition to letting potatoes dry a bit after boiling to evaporate some moisture, make sure your potatoes are not too crowded on the baking sheet or they will steam instead of roasting golden brown.

Can I add minced fresh garlic or herbs before roasting?

Dried seasonings like garlic powder can be added prior to roasting, but fresh garlic or herbs may burn and are best added after cooking.

What if I don’t have a potato masher?

That’s OK! Try a heavy skillet or a drinking glass to smash the potatoes flat.