Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe That Breaks the Internet
Introduction
Crispy smashed potatoes have become a beloved sensation in kitchens everywhere. They combine soft interiors with golden edges that crackle under your teeth. Owners of food blogs and social media channels often feature them, and it is easy to see why. These potatoes elevate everyday meals without fuss. They work just as well for casual weeknight dinners as they do for festive gatherings. Crafted with pantry staples, they offer a gourmet feel in every bite. The process of boiling, smashing, seasoning, and roasting potatoes feels satisfying and hands on. The aroma that fills the kitchen activates the senses and makes everyone gather around the oven. Once you find the right technique, the results are always dependable and delicious.
Ingredients Needed
Here is a table of all ingredients needed to make crispy smashed potatoes for four servings, complete with calorie counts for each item.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Baby potatoes | 1.5 pounds | 480 |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | 360 |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | 8 |
| Dried rosemary | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | 1 |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup | 110 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | 2 |
Total estimated calories for batch: 967
Calories per serving (divided into four): Approximately 242
Read More: Easy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by rinsing the potatoes under cool water to remove any dirt. Keep the skins on for texture. Place them in a pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring the pot to a boil. Simmer for fifteen to twenty minutes until a fork slides easily into the potatoes.
Once the potatoes are tender, drain the water and let them rest for a few minutes. You want them warm but easy to handle. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to four hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and place a heavy baking sheet inside to heat up. A hot surface ensures crisp textures.
Transfer the warm potatoes to a clean surface. Use a flat-bottomed glass or potato masher to gently press each one until it flattens to about half an inch thick. Take care not to completely break the potatoes apart.
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and apply a light coating of olive oil. Arrange the smashed potatoes on the sheet and drizzle the remaining oil over them. Sprinkle garlic powder, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper so each potato is well seasoned.
Roast in the oven for twenty-five to thirty minutes. At the halfway point, flip each potato to help both sides develop golden crisps. Watch the edges closely and remove them once they turn deeply golden.
Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes. Return them to the oven for two to three additional minutes so the cheese melts and becomes slightly crispy. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Read More: Parmesan Crusted Chicken Parm Food Network
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
You can swap sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist. Add chili flakes for a spicy kick. Try other herbs like thyme or oregano. Use ghee instead of olive oil for richer flavor. Replace Parmesan with vegan cheese or sprinkle nutritional yeast for a plant-based version. Top with crumbled bacon or green onions for added texture. For faster results, cook the potatoes in an air fryer at four hundred degrees for about twenty minutes.
Nutritional Information
Here is the estimated nutritional content per serving:
Calories 242
Protein 5 grams
Fat 13 grams
Carbohydrates 28 grams
Fiber 3 grams
Sugars 2 grams
Sodium 450 milligrams
Numbers may vary depending on toppings and ingredient brands.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy smashed potatoes make a perfect side dish for grilled chicken, steak, or fish. Pair them with roasted vegetables or a vibrant salad. They enhance weekend brunch spreads alongside eggs and bacon. Serve them at gatherings with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup. They also work well with vegetarian bowls featuring grains and greens. Leftovers reheat beautifully in an oven or air fryer to restore their crisp edges, offering a quick and tasty snack or side.
Read More: Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Conclusion
Perfectly crispy smashed potatoes deliver comfort and crunch in equal measure. They bring joy to the table through simple steps and bold flavor. This recipe works across meals and occasions, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Adapt it with spices, toppings, and serving ideas to fit your taste and theme. Once you master the method, you will find yourself returning to it again and again. These potatoes are proof that minimal effort can yield maximal delight.